Building your own brick barbecue pit allows you to create a customized and high-quality cooking space for grilling and smoking meat, fish, vegetables and more. With the right materials and techniques, you can construct a durable, efficient and great-looking outdoor brick barbecue to enjoy for years to come.
Planning Your Brick Barbecue Pit
Before you start building, take time to plan out your brick barbecue pit design. Here are some key factors to consider:
Size and Layout
- Determine the overall size and dimensions that will work best for your needs. Standard rectangular shapes are easiest to build.
- Decide on a single grill surface, or include multiple levels to allow direct and indirect cooking zones.
- Allow enough space between the grill and walls for accessing coals and ventilation. At least 18 inches is recommended.
Materials
- Choose heat-resistant bricks that can withstand high temperatures. Firebricks are ideal. Standard clay bricks may crack.
- Opt for metal grilling grates that won’t burn or warp under high heat. Stainless steel and cast iron are great options.
- Select durable mortar that bonds well, like high-heat masonry or refractory cement. Do not use standard concrete mortar.
Ventilation
- Proper airflow is crucial so smoke and heat can escape. Decide on vent placement and size.
- Vents near the grill floor allow air intake. Vents at the top let smoke and heat escape.
- For optimal cross ventilation, install vents on opposite sides of the pit.
Other Features
- Consider adding extra elements like side tables, storage, lighting or a chimney.
- Determine the finish look. Exposed brick or stucco/stone veneer are popular options.
Constructing the Brick Base
A solid foundation is the first key step in building a sturdy brick barbecue:
Choose the Location
- Select a flat spot with several feet of clearance from structures, plants and combustible items.
- Ensure underground utilities or sprinklers do not cross the pit site. Contact your utility companies if unsure.
Prepare the Ground
- Excavate the soil at least 6 inches deep across the planned pit footprint.
- Tamp down and level the soil to create a stable, compacted base.
Build the Foundation
- Construct a gravel base by pouring 2-3 inches of gravel into the pit and packing it down. This boosts drainage.
- For added stability, sink several courses of solid concrete blocks into the gravel and level.
- Alternatively, pour a concrete slab aligned with the outer brick dimensions. Let it fully cure before building on top.
Construct the Base Walls
- Lay the first course of bricks around the slab or block foundation using mortar between layers.
- Use a level and measuring tape to ensure the walls are straight, square and properly aligned.
- Build up subsequent courses in a running bond pattern, offsetting vertical joints.
- Allow the mortar to cure fully before continuing, usually about 24 hours. Mist with water to aid curing.
Installing the Grill and Interior Details
Once the brick base structure is complete, it’s time to add the grill surface and interior components:
Set the Grill Grates
- Grill grate supports can be courses of firebricks built into the walls, or custom-welded brackets.
- Arrange the grilling grates over the supports, allowing ample space below for coals and ash.
- For multiple grill levels, stagger the supports at different heights with at least 5 inches between grates.
Add Vents and Dampers
- Cut or leave holes for the planned vent positions, installing grates to prevent critters from entering.
- Adjustable steel dampers give the best temperature control. Mount them over the vent holes.
- Position intake vents low on the walls near the firebox. Locate exhaust vents at the top on the opposite side.
Insulate and Protect the Interior
- Line the interior walls with high-heat insulation panels cut to fit. This increases fuel efficiency.
- Protect the insulation by covering it with concrete board or glazed ceramic tiles.
- Use firebricks or tiles to line the grill floor and firebox areas most exposed to heat.
Completing the Exterior
Apply the desired finishing details to complete the barbecue pit:
Install Exterior Veneer (Optional)
- For a finished look, adhere faux stone, stucco, brick or other veneers over the outer walls using mortar or adhesive.
- Trim to fit around corners neatly and seal gaps with caulk. Take care not to block vent openings.
- Consider adding decorative tile accents, etched names or designs.
Add Side Tables or Shelves
- Sturdy shelving mounted on the sides provides prep space and storage.
- Use heat-safe materials like brick, stone or metal for tabletops near the grill.
- Allow proper clearance from vents when positioning shelves to prevent obstruction.
Create Serving Space
- If desired, construct additional brick, stucco or stone walls to enclose a serving space beside the grill area.
- Top with counters at a comfortable height to provide a food prep station and eating space.
Install Lighting
- Mount lights on the outer walls or overhead to enable grilling after dark.
- Choose lighting rated for outdoor/wet use such as LED or halogen fixtures.
- Ensure wiring is installed safely by a qualified electrician if hardwiring lights in place.
Tips for Successful Brick Pit Grilling
Once your custom brick barbecue pit is built, use these tips to help make your grilling experiences successful:
- Season the grill before first use by coating with vegetable oil and burning off residue to prevent sticking.
- Keep ventilation adjustable to control air flow and temperature as needed.
- Use hardwood lump charcoal for the best flavor with less ash than briquettes.
- Install temperature gauges near the grilling surface and dome lid to monitor heat levels.
- Preheat adequately for at least 45 minutes to heat the entire pit and normalize temps.
- Manage the fire by raking coals, adding new fuel and adjusting vents as needed for desired heat levels.
- Protect your hands and arms when cooking by wearing heavy grill gloves and long sleeves.
- Clean after each use by burning off debris and wiping grates and walls with a brush.
With proper construction technique and materials, your custom brick barbecue pit will provide an optimal, durable grilling space to enjoy cooking delicious barbecue favorites for years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about building brick barbecue pits:
What type of bricks should be used?
Firebricks or other high-heat resistant bricks are best, as normal clay bricks may crack under the high temperatures inside a barbecue pit.
What kind of mortar is best for a BBQ pit?
High-heat mortars made for fireplaces and masonry ovens are optimal. Standard concrete mortar should be avoided as it cannot withstand high heat.
How thick should the walls be?
Around 4-6 inches thick is typical. Thinner walls may crack over time. Thicker walls retain more heat for better insulation.
What is the best height for grill grates?
Install main grilling grates around waist height for safety and comfort while cooking. Additional upper grates can be placed above as needed.
Should the interior be insulated?
Yes, lining the walls with insulation panels helps improve heat retention and fuel efficiency significantly.
How much ventilation is needed?
Include intake vents totaling around 6-8 square inches at grill level, and exhaust vents adding up to around 12-16 square inches near the top.
Should lighting be installed?
Outdoor rated lighting is highly recommended to illuminate the grilling area for safe use and monitoring after dark.
What firebricks are best for lining the interior?
Dense, heat-resistant firebricks rated for at least 2700°F are optimal for protecting the pit walls and floor.
How often should the pit be cleaned?
Burn off debris after each use. Do a deep clean of walls and grates as needed with a wire brush to prevent residue buildup.
Conclusion
Constructing your own custom brick barbecue pit requires planning, the right materials and proper technique, but allows you to create the ultimate personalized outdoor cooking space. By following the steps outlined above for site prep, base building, installing grilling grates and vents, insulation and finishes, you can have a high-quality pit tailored to your needs that will provide exceptional grilling function for years of smoky barbecue enjoyment. With some patience and hard work, you can become the envy of the neighborhood with a hand-built brick barbecue pit cooking up mouthwatering meals in your backyard.