What Kind of Paint to Use on Your Clay Chiminea – And How?

Once the sun has gone down, the chiminea can keep your home warm and cozy.

However, time takes its toll on the chiminea as it can wear down and start to corrode.

But instead of replacing it, you can simply repaint the surface with a heat resistant paint.

When it’s about picking the right paint for a chiminea, you will need to use a paint that is best suited for stoves, ovens, and BBQs.

One such paint that I found useful is Rust-Oleum Stove & BBQ Spray Paint which is heat-resistant, ultra-tough, and quick at drying.

Such paints can cover surfaces while resisting the effects of the heat.

This means that you can easily clean and repaint the surface of your clay or metal chiminea so that it will last for many years of use with a little cleaning and maintenance.

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How to Paint a Clay Chiminea?

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To properly paint your chiminea, you will have to go through a few steps.

The first is obtaining the right type of heat resistant paint to ensure protection for a long time.

You can choose from several different colors which will add to the décor of the porch or location where the chiminea is placed.

Step 1 – Wash & Clean

You will need to thoroughly wash and clean you chiminea both inside and out.

A simple cleaning detergent combined with water and a sponge should do the trick.

You may want to use a brush first to clean away the loose debris before applying the detergent and water.

Step 2 – Sand

Use 80-grit sandpaper and run it across the chiminea.

By sanding all the areas that you are going to paint, it helps the paint to stick to the surface.

Plus, it gets rid of any debris that has bonded with the metal surface. The goal is to smooth out the surface completely.

Step 3 – Drop Cloths

Place drop cloths on the floor around the chiminea so that they catch all the drips.

Primer: A primer that is brushed or sprayed-on will work. This assumes that the primer is heat resistant as well.

Spray-on primers are quick and easy, so you may be included to use them.

Step 4 – Seal

Make sure the primer covers the entire area that is to be painted.

A primer will seal the surface which not only allows the paint to stick better but also prevents moisture from coming up from the surface to peel away the paint.

Step 5 – Paint

Once you have applied the primer, it’s time to add the heat resistant paint.

One coat is generally enough. Be sure to paint the surface evenly and let it dry thoroughly. Check it and see if another coat of paint is needed.

Step 6 – Clear Coat Sealer

Once the paint is dry, add a coat of clear sealer which will make the chiminea easier to clean.

Curing and applying a sealer (like a wood sealer or an acrylic floor finish) to the outside of your chiminea also prevents the cracks forming when the pot is exposed to high temperatures.

Plus, it also keeps the moisture from seeping into the clay.

So, its recommended that you reseal your chiminea at least once a month during the usage months.

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When to Use Chiminea Again After Painting?

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Once the chiminea is completely dry, you can use it again.

Between uses, it is recommended that you cover the chiminea to protect it from the elements.

As long as the flames are contained inside the bowl, the paint on the clay chiminea will last for a long time.

You can help the process by purchasing or creating firewood that is roughly one foot or slightly less in length.

You can even find such wood in many hardware or home improvement stores.

Few important things you need to remember while using a clay chiminea:

1- Never stack the chimineas as you can easily damage them while doing so.

2- A very quick change in temperature can crack the clay chimenea (especially those made from terra cotta).

So you should avoid using water to put out the flames.

Instead, use a fire poker to turn over the sand and bury the embers. This will effectively put the flames out.

3- Compared to cast iron, clay chimneas are less dangerous.

Since their exterior does not get as hot as metal there are fewer chances of severe skin burns or injuries if touched accidentally.

Plus, the clay material does not rust like iron and can be kept for years without worrying about natural elements like rain.

The only downside is clay can crack or break soon if handled carelessly.

If your chiminea has cracked you can repair it by filling or sealing the cracks.

Alternatively, you can get it painted and use it as a flowerpot in your backyard garden for decoration.

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Maintenance Tips for Chiminea to Keep It In Good Condition

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A little care will help your clay or metal chiminea last for a long time.

The paint will protect the clay or cast iron chiminea, but you will need to do a little maintenance from time to time.

Before using your chiminea for the season, wash it with mild dish soap, rinse with water, and let it dry.

Remove the ashes and sand regularly and wash the chiminea when needed.

When not in use, cover the chiminea and bring it inside if possible.

Moving it carefully inside and then outside for the season will protect it from the elements.

However, you should get some assistance and use a cart while moving as the chiminea is fragile despite its weight.

The Bottom Line

Clay chimineas are rustic and natural.

These are fabulous when you want to enjoy weekend with your family in winters.

You can keep them outdoors (in the backyard or patio) during the day and move indoors for the evening.

The good thing is they do not require a lot of work.

With some good care, repaint, and regular touch-ups you can keep your chiminea to last for years.

Just make sure you use the right paint and follow the steps while maintaining.