Alright, let’s talk about building a BBQ pit with bricks. I wanted a nice spot in my backyard to grill and chill, and figured, why not build it myself? Plus, it’s way cheaper than buying a fancy one.
First thing I did was sketch out a basic design. Nothing fancy, just a rectangular pit with enough space for a grill grate. I measured my backyard and made sure there was enough room around the pit for safety. No one wants a fire hazard, right?
Next up, gathering the materials. I hit up the local hardware store and grabbed a bunch of bricks. You can use regular bricks, but firebricks are better since they can handle the heat. I also got some mortar mix, a trowel, a level, and a few other tools. Oh, and don’t forget a good pair of gloves – bricks are rough on the hands.
Building the Base
The first step was laying the foundation. I dug a shallow trench where the pit was going to be and filled it with gravel for drainage. Then, I laid the first layer of bricks, making sure they were level. This part is crucial – a wonky base means a wonky pit.
- Mix the mortar. Follow the instructions on the bag. You want a consistency like peanut butter, not too runny, not too stiff.
- Lay the bricks. I started with the corners, then filled in the sides. Use the trowel to apply mortar to the bottom and sides of each brick before placing it.
- Check the level. After every few bricks, I used the level to make sure everything was straight. It’s a pain, but it’s worth it in the end.
Building the Walls
Once the base was set, it was time to build up the walls. This was pretty straightforward, just stacking bricks and applying mortar. I made sure to stagger the joints for extra strength. You know, like how they do it in those construction shows.
- Keep it level. I know I said it before, but it’s super important. Check the level regularly as you build up the walls.
- Clean up excess mortar. As I went, I scraped off any extra mortar that squeezed out. It makes the finished pit look much neater.
Finishing Touches
After the walls were the height I wanted, I let the mortar cure for a few days. Then, I added a few finishing touches.
- Grill grate supports. I built in some supports for the grill grate using extra bricks. You could also use metal brackets if you prefer.
- Top layer. I finished off the top of the walls with a layer of flat bricks to make it look nicer and give it a more finished appearance.
And that’s it! My DIY brick BBQ pit was done. It took a bit of time and effort, but it was totally worth it. Now I have a great spot to grill up some burgers and enjoy the summer. Plus, I saved a ton of money by doing it myself. If I can do it, anyone can. Just be patient, take your time, and enjoy the process.
