Building an outdoor grill with cinder blocks is a fun DIY project that allows you to create a permanent and sturdy cooking station for your backyard. With some simple masonry skills and materials, you can construct a cinder block grill that will last for years.

Introduction

Cinder block grills are much more durable and weather-resistant than many homemade grills made from bricks or stones. The hollow design of concrete blocks provides great insulation for holding in heat. Their modular shape also makes them easy to stack and configure into a grill.

Constructing a cinder block grill is straightforward for anyone with basic masonry skills. The main steps include preparing the site, assembling the blocks, installing the metal cooking grate, and applying mortar. With proper planning and safety precautions, you can build an outstanding cinder block grill that will be the envy of your neighborhood.

Steps for Building a Cinder Block Grill

Select and Prepare the Site

Choose a level spot in your yard that gets plenty of sunlight and has good ventilation. Avoid areas under trees or eaves that could limit air circulation.
Clear away any grass or debris and use a shovel to flatten and pack down the soil. A pavement slab or pavers beneath the grill can also work.
Decide on the grill size and layout before assembling the blocks. Typical dimensions are 4 feet wide by 8 feet long.

Assemble the Cinder Blocks

Arrange the first row of blocks end-to-end on the prepared site to create the base. Level each block.
Stack subsequent rows on top of each other, overlapping the blocks like bricks. Use alternating patterns for stability.
Build up the walls to a height of about 3-4 rows. Leave an opening for inserting the cooking grate later.
The interior space should be roughly 2 feet wide by 6 feet long to accommodate the grate.

Install the Cooking Grate

Measure the interior width between the cinder block walls to determine the appropriate grate size.
Purchase a heavy-duty metal cooking grate designed for outdoor grilling. Stainless steel or cast iron work best.
Lower the grate into the cinder block frame and ensure it rests firmly on the side walls. It may take some adjustment.
The grate should be embedded halfway down into the grill, with 4-6 inches of clearance below for the fire and ash.

Apply High-Heat Mortar

Mix high-heat mortar designed for fireplaces and chimneys. Avoid standard cement mortar which can crack under heat.
Generously apply mortar to the top of each cinder block to bind them together.
Also use mortar to seal any gaps or crevices on the outside of the grill walls.
Let the mortar fully cure for 72 hours before lighting the first fire.

Additional Tips

Add metal flashing around the interior underside of the cooking grate to protect the cinder blocks from heat damage.
Consider inserting a metal ash catch tray or pan beneath the grate to simplify cleanup.
Attach a chimney starter tube to one side of the grill to allow better airflow for starting charcoal.
Coat the inside of the cinder block walls with high-temp paint to minimize soot and staining over time.
Cap the grill with a lid made from steel sheeting for more efficient cooking when desired.

Safety Precautions

Always keep a fire extinguisher and water nearby when grilling.
Do not leave the grill unattended when hot coals or flames are present.
Allow the grill to fully cool before handling the ash tray or making any modifications.
Check that the grill is level and structurally sound before each use. Repair any mortar cracks or shifts.
Keep all flammable objects, liquids, and vapors well away from the hot grill.

Conclusion

With minimal masonry skills and standard cinder blocks, you can create an outstanding DIY backyard grill. Properly constructed cinder block grills deliver excellent heating performance, require little maintenance, and will last for many years. Fire up your new cinder block grill and enjoy delicious barbecued foods with family and friends all summer long.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cinder blocks should be used?

Standard 8 x 8 x 16-inch concrete cinder blocks are ideal. Avoid cinder blocks with hollow cores, which are less durable and prone to breakage.

How many blocks are needed?

Plan on 16-20 blocks for a 4 foot by 8 foot sized grill. Have a few extra blocks on hand in case any break during construction.

Should the inside be coated or sealed?

Yes, coat the interior with high-temp paint or sealant to limit smoke absorption and prevent staining. Apply after fully curing the mortar between blocks.

What is the best way to clean the grill?

Allow the grill to fully cool after each use. Then remove ash with a small metal shovel. Use a wire brush to dislodge any residue on the grate. Recoat interior paint periodically.

Can a cinder block grill be moved?

No, cinder block grills are permanent structures. They can be dismantled and rebuilt in a new location, but not easily relocated once constructed.

What is the benefit of using cinder blocks over bricks?

Cinder blocks are more durable, weather-resistant, and heat tolerant than standard bricks or decorative landscaping blocks. Their shape also assembles easily.

Is mortar absolutely necessary?

Yes, high-heat mortar between layers and sealing gaps is critical. It binds the blocks together and prevents dangerous air gaps that could damage the blocks when hot.

How to Build an Outdoor Grill with Cinder Blocks [summary]

Building an outdoor grill with cinder blocks is a fun DIY project that allows you to create a sturdy and permanent cooking station. The key steps include:

Selecting and preparing a flat site for the grill
Stacking and arranging the cinder blocks into walls, leaving an opening for the grate
Installing a heavy-duty metal cooking grate sized for the interior
Binding the blocks together with high-heat mortar
Adding safety features like metal flashing and an ash catch tray

Cinder block grills deliver excellent heating performance and durability. With proper construction using high-temp materials, they can last for many years of backyard barbecuing.