I’ve always wanted a proper outdoor grill, you know, the kind that’s a permanent fixture in the backyard. So, I finally decided to take the plunge and build one myself. I mean, how hard could it be, right? Turns out, it’s a bit more involved than just stacking a few bricks together.
First off, I spent a good chunk of time just staring at my backyard, trying to figure out the best spot. I wanted it close enough to the house for easy access but not so close that the smoke would become a nuisance. After a lot of pacing and some serious contemplation, I settled on a corner spot that seemed just right.
Next up was the design. I browsed through countless pictures online, but nothing really clicked. They all seemed either too fancy or too basic. So, I grabbed a pencil and paper and sketched out my own design. It wasn’t anything groundbreaking, just a simple, rectangular structure with a built-in countertop.
Then came the fun part – gathering the materials. I headed to the local hardware store and loaded up on bricks, mortar, and some metal grates for the cooking surface. Let me tell you, pushing a cart full of bricks is a workout in itself.
The actual building process was, well, let’s just say it was a learning experience. I started by laying down a concrete foundation. I mixed up the concrete, poured it into a wooden frame I’d built, and then let it dry for a couple of days.
Once the foundation was solid, I began laying the bricks. This was definitely the most time-consuming part. I had to make sure each brick was level and that the mortar was applied evenly. It was slow going, and my back was definitely feeling it by the end of each day.
- Mix mortar
- Lay bricks
- Check level
- Repeat
But brick by brick, row by row, the grill started to take shape. I took my time, not wanting to rush things and mess up. After a few weekends of hard work, the main structure was complete. I even managed to add that countertop I’d envisioned.
Finally, I installed the metal grates, and there it was – my very own homemade outdoor grill. I stood back, admiring my handiwork, feeling pretty darn proud of myself.
The inaugural grilling session was a success. Burgers, hot dogs, and even some veggies were cooked to perfection. Sitting there, enjoying the food with my family, I realized that all the hard work had been worth it.
Looking Back
This whole project was definitely a challenge, but a rewarding one. I learned a ton about bricklaying, gained a new appreciation for manual labor, and ended up with a grill that I can truly call my own. Plus, I can’t help but feel a little smug whenever someone compliments it. “Oh, this old thing? Yeah, I built it myself.”
