Building your own BBQ pit out of brick can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. With the right planning and materials, you can create a high-quality outdoor cooking space customized to your needs. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to build a BBQ pit out of brick.
Introduction
Constructing a brick BBQ pit allows you to cook various meats and vegetables over an open fire. The brick material holds heat well and provides an attractive, durable housing for the pit. Building it yourself rather than buying a prefabricated model gives you full creative control over the size, shape, and features. With proper research and preparation, an amateur DIYer can make a brick pit that rivals a professional model.
Benefits of a Brick BBQ Pit
Some key advantages of building a brick BBQ pit include:
- Heat retention – Brick absorbs and distributes heat evenly. This helps prevent temperature fluctuations and hot spots while cooking.
- Durability – Properly constructed brick pits can last for decades with minimal maintenance.
- Custom design – You can create the ideal shape and size to fit your space and cooking needs.
- Visual appeal – Brick lends a stylish, rustic look as an attractive backyard centerpiece.
- Temperature regulation – Vents and air gaps allow heat control for smoking, grilling, etc.
- Flavors – Cooking over a wood/charcoal fire infuses meats with a delicious smoky flavor.
Planning Your Brick BBQ Pit
Carefully planning each step of the project is crucial for success. Important factors to consider include:
Location
- Choose a level area of your yard that allows at least 3 feet of clearance on all sides of the pit.
- Consider proximity to your patio or deck for convenient access.
- Check local codes for any restrictions on placement.
Dimensions
- Size it to fit your typical cooking needs – allow at least 500 square inches of grill space per person.
- Standard shapes are rectangular, square, or rounded.
- Account for the thickness of the brick, mortar joints, interior firebox, grill grate, and outer walls.
- Plan enough area for an ash collection box below the grill grate.
Design Elements
- Determine the type of grill – open grate, adjustable height, rotisserie, etc.
- Include vents near the base and lid for air flow regulation.
- Allow room for thermometers to monitor interior temperature.
- Decide on accessories like side tables, storage, or overhead shelter.
Materials
- High-heat bricks – semi-vitreous or firebricks rated for exterior use.
- Metal rods or grates for adjustable shelves and grill surface.
- Cement, sand, mortar for bonding bricks.
- Steel pipe, sheet metal for firebox, chimney, vents.
- Heat-resistant paint or sealer if desired.
Constructing the BBQ Pit
With your design plan in place, you’re ready to start construction. We’ll go over the key steps:
Laying the Foundation
- Mark the overall outline with stakes and string.
- Dig down 8-12 inches and fill with a gravel base for drainage.
- Build a concrete footer around the perimeter.
- Use anchor bolts in the concrete to hold the first course of bricks.
Brickwork
- Lay the first course of bricks on the mortar bed. Check for level plumb.
- Build up courses using a running bond pattern for strength.
- Leave gaps for vents and openings later on.
- Use fire-rated mortar designed for high heat applications.
Interior Elements
- Construct the firebox from steel or firebrick to contain the fire.
- Add a grill grate at your desired height above the firebox.
- Install vents along the lower sides for air intake.
- Create an access door for fuel and ash removal.
Exterior Finishing
- Allow the mortar to fully cure before lighting a fire.
- Apply high-heat paint or sealer to protect the bricks.
- Add metal work shelves, hooks, etc. as designed.
- Seal any cracks or crevices with fireplace mortar.
- Cure the pit by burning small fires to harden the mortar slowly.
Using Your Brick Pit Safely
Once complete, keep these safety tips in mind when using your brick BBQ:
- Keep it outdoors in a well-ventilated area away from structures.
- Don’t leave a fire unattended.
- Use caution when adding more fuel to avoid burns or flare-ups.
- Allow the pit to cool fully before inspecting the interior.
- Check that vents are not blocked before starting a fire.
- Avoid using flammable lighter fluids.
- Keep a fire extinguisher and water hose nearby.
- Follow all local burn regulations and fire bans.
Maintaining Your Brick Pit
With proper care and maintenance, a brick pit can provide decades of use:
- Always let the pit cool fully before cleaning.
- Remove ash buildup regularly to allow air flow.
- Use a wire brush to scrub the grill grates as needed.
- Check the mortar for cracks annually and reseal as required.
- Repoint deteriorating mortar joints to prevent further damage.
- Apply a fresh sealant coat every few years.
- Avoid excessive exposure to extreme weather shifts.
- Cover the pit in the offseason or when not in use.
Conclusion
Building a customized BBQ pit from brick is an ambitious but rewarding project for experienced DIYers. With mindful planning and construction methods, you can create a centerpiece cooking appliance to enjoy for years. The step-by-step process requires time and diligence, but the result is a high-quality, visually stunning grilling space designed just for you. Be sure to do thorough research and follow all safety precautions when tackling this hands-on, high-heat project. With a properly constructed and well-maintained brick pit, you’ll enjoy delicious BBQ cooking experiences for decades to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of brick should be used?
Firebrick or refractory bricks rated for high heat are ideal. Avoid standard clay bricks which can crack under extreme temperatures.
How thick should the walls be?
4-6 inches is typical, using double brick walls with mortar in between for insulation. Thicker walls retain heat better.
What mortar is best?
High heat mortar mixes designed for fireplaces and chimneys withstand temperatures above 1000°F.
Should the pit have a lid?
Lids help control airflow for smoking but are not mandatory. Vents near the base and lid provide sufficient air control on most pits.
What is the best fuel source?
Natural hardwoods like hickory, pecan and mesquite give the best flavor. Avoid resinous softwoods. Charcoal is easier to control than raw wood logs.
How often should it be cleaned out?
Remove ashes before each use and fully clear out debris every 5-10 cooks to allow proper air circulation.