Cast Iron and Aluminum Chimineas

In general, a cast iron or aluminum chiminea is more durable and sturdy than a clay version. Although they tend to be heavier than clay models, they won’t crack or break as easily. However, they will need occasional maintenance.

For example, if you leave a cast iron chiminea outside long enough, it will rust. Rust is a normal occurrence, so if you sand out rust spots and paint them as they appear, your fireplace should give you many years of enjoyment.

Cast aluminum models are relatively low maintenance, lighter in weight than cast iron, and also rust-resistant. Therefore, painting and sanding is not necessary.

What to Look for in All Chimineas

As you shop for a Mexican fireplace, pay close attention to size of fire bowl area. This is where you will be placing wood to burn, so be sure it is large enough to accommodate adequately large pieces of wood. The size of fire bowl is more important than height of neck.

You might also consider purchasing a spark arrestor for your chiminea. A spark arrestor is a mesh screen that you place over chimney hole to prevent sparks from escaping. You might also consider a spark arrestor for front of fire bowl, too.

A modern Mexican chiminea is a great addition to any backyard, both as a source of heat and as a decorating accent piece. Make your choice between clay, cast iron, and cast aluminum models. With a little yearly care, you will have a wonderful conversation piece for your patio or backyard. Plus, you will have a romantic and charming way to stay warm as you gaze into sky on a cool and starry night.

Know your enemy. Coaches and players spend hours before games watching films of their impending competition to study their tendencies. You need to take same approach when it comes to making a deal. Try to read your opponent’s mind. What is his or her goals in negotiation? Does he or she have any strengths that they can use against you? Are there any weaknesses that you can use against them?

Spot all of your passing lanes. During your research, you may find that this particular vendor isn’t only one in game with what you’re looking for. Using these other vendors, and their prices, to your advantage can help you skate circles around your competitor.

Practice before you play. Also, research item before you make a play on it. This knowledge, such as going price and quality markers, can work as leverage during negotiating, too.

Translate thought into action. Your strategy can become more complicated and unpredictable—and effective—once you’re in heat of battle. Just remember to think on your feet and remember all that you learned in your “training.” For instance, if you know that vendor has other items for sale besides your target, agree easily to one of these other purchases. Go for easy one first. That will lure them into trusting you and giving you an easy pass on future, and more important, deals.

When it comes down to it, negotiation is all about this kind of give and take. It works out best when both parties get what they want out of deal, without feeling ripped off as if they gave too much for too little.

That brings you to one “don’t” of negotiating. Don’t fear a standoff. They are part of art and science of trading, so don’t be tempted to cave in just to break deadlock. Instead, let your opponent make first move. They will. They want to close deal, too, don’t forget. You both will be better off for this in long run. And you won’t end up like NHL, No Hockey League.