Okay, folks, let’s dive into my latest backyard project: building a brick BBQ with a chimney! I’ve always wanted a proper, permanent BBQ setup, and after a bit of research and planning, I finally took the plunge. Here’s how it all went down:
The Prep Work
First things first, I cleared a good spot in the yard. I wanted it far enough from the house to avoid smoke issues, but close enough to the patio for easy access. I marked out the base area, roughly a rectangle, and dug down about 6 inches. This was just to get rid of the grass and loose topsoil. I leveled the area out
Laying the Foundation
I am not using concrete to * next I got a whole bunch of * is important – you don’t want your BBQ sinking or cracking later on! I compacted the sand down really well, using a hand tamper. It took a while, but it’s worth it for a solid base.
Building the Base
I started laying the bricks for the base.I chose some that are durable and not too expensive,I laid them out in a simple running bond pattern – basically, staggering the joints in each row. I used a brick trowel to spread the mortar, making sure to get a good, even layer. I used fire brick, to build fire box,and this fire box is very important,it can make the bbq base last longer.
Constructing the BBQ Walls
Once the base was set, I started building up the walls. I decided on a simple rectangular shape, leaving a large opening at the front for the grill and a smaller opening at the back for the chimney base. I kept checking the level and plumb (vertical straightness) as I went, using a spirit level and a plumb bob. It’s crucial to get this right, or your whole BBQ will be wonky!
The Chimney
Building the chimney was probably the trickiest part. I started with a square base, matching the opening at the back of the BBQ. Then, I gradually tapered the bricks inwards as I went up, creating a funnel shape. I did to connect the fire box.I made sure to leave enough space inside for the smoke to draw properly.
Finishing Touches
After the mortar had fully dried (which took a couple of days), I cleaned up any excess mortar with a stiff brush. And I added a metal grill grate, resting it on some bricks I’d left protruding slightly inside the BBQ walls.
The First Cookout!
Finally, the moment of truth! I lit a fire in the BBQ, let it burn down to hot coals, and threw on some burgers and sausages. The chimney worked perfectly, drawing the smoke up and away. The BBQ cooked the food evenly, and it tasted amazing! I had a successful family gathering.
It was a lot of work, but seeing the finished BBQ and enjoying that first cookout made it all worthwhile. It’s definitely a project I’m proud of, and I’m looking forward to many years of grilling on my homemade brick BBQ!
