Okay, here’s my blog post about building a BBQ pit, written in a casual, first-person style, and using basic HTML tags:
So, I’ve always wanted a proper BBQ pit in my backyard. Not one of those flimsy metal things, but a real, solid, brick-built one. I finally decided to just go for it this past weekend. Let me tell you, it was more work than I expected, but totally worth it.
Getting Started
First, I cleared a nice spot in the yard. I wanted it far enough from the house that smoke wouldn’t be an issue, but also close enough to the patio for easy access. I measured out a rough rectangle, about 4 feet by 3 feet. I think. To be fully honest, I didn’t spend time with a ruler, just a general estimation.
Then came the digging. I dug down about 6 inches, making sure the base was relatively level. I say “relatively” because, well, I’m not a professional, and it wasn’t perfectly flat. But it was good enough for me!
Laying the Foundation
Next, I poured in a layer of gravel for drainage. I just used some bags of all-purpose gravel I picked up from the hardware store. I spread it around evenly and tamped it down with a hand tamper. My arms were already starting to feel it at this point!
Then,I laid some concrete pavers on top of gravel to have a flat ground,then I can start to build bricks.
Building the Walls
This is where the real fun began. I’d bought a bunch of bricks. I started laying the bricks, using mortar to hold them together. I’m no bricklayer, so my lines weren’t exactly perfect, but I tried my best to keep them somewhat straight. Each layer,I use level ruler to make sure it is balanced.
I built up the walls layer by layer, staggering the joints like you’re supposed to. I left a gap at the front for accessing the coals and adding wood. It took a while, and my back was definitely feeling it, but slowly but surely, the BBQ pit started to take shape.
The Finishing Touches
Once the walls were up to a good height (about waist-high), I added a metal grate I’d salvaged. I just laid it across the top of the walls, making sure it was secure.
And that was pretty much it! I let the mortar dry for a couple of days before I used it. I wasn’t going to risk the whole thing collapsing on me.
First Cookout!
The first cookout was a success! The BBQ pit worked great, and the food tasted amazing. There’s just something special about cooking over real wood and coals.
So, yeah, that’s my BBQ pit building adventure. It was hard work, but I’m super proud of how it turned out. And I’ve got a permanent spot for grilling now, which is awesome. If you’re thinking about doing something similar, just be prepared for some manual labor, and don’t expect perfection. But most importantly, have fun with it!
