Plans to Build a Brick Barbecue

The tantalizing aroma of hamburgers and steak grilling on a barbecue fills the innermost depths of your nostrils. But, the problem is that it comes from your neighbor's backyard, and you wished you had a barbecue in your own backyard. Don't be disappointed, as the next few paragraphs will throw light on plans to build a brick barbecue.

Building a Brick Barbecue

Although it is not a complicated task, there are certain steps that need to be followed before you plan on building a brick barbecue. Proper planning is the key to it.

Location
Depending on the frequency of use, choosing a location to build a barbecue is very important. The location chosen must be such that it is easily accessible for the members of the family. It would be wise to choose a corner in your backyard in accordance with the direction of the wind. The last thing you'd want is the smoke to blow directly on your face or enter your home. Another important aspect is making sure there are no overhead electrical circuits or wires above the place you plan to build your brick barbecue. Also make sure that you choose an area that has no trees or low branches very close to your barbecue. Remember, you need to barbecue your meat, not your home! The location should also be close enough to the kitchen so you don't have to make long trips every time you need something.

Groundwork
A strong base is essential to build a sturdy brick barbecue. You need to set up the bricks on a sturdy foundation of concrete, hence, it is essential that you use a wooden frame as a template to get the right dimensions of your brick barbecue. It is always a good idea to build the foundation slightly sloping, as this prevents rainwater from accumulating under there. Use a concrete mix cement to lay the groundwork for the brick barbecue you plan to build. Once that's done, give the cement approximately forty-eight hours to bind properly.

Brickwork
Once the pad is ready, make marks where you want to position the bricks, and lay two courses of bricks on a thin layer of mortar. Start with the corers first, and then proceed to fill in the walls. Remember, the mortar needs to be made from one-fourth part of hydrated lime, one part of cement and three parts of masonry sand. This consistency helps the bricks soak-in the moisture of the mortar which acts as a binding agent. Also remember to soak the bricks the previous night, as dry bricks will absorb all the moisture from the mortar leading to weak mortar. Once the two courses are set up on a thin coating of mortar, increase the use of mortar and continue to build walls with bricks, keeping in mind that the concave or horizontal shape of your walls need to be adjacent to the cooking grills at a relatively comfortable height. Work the corners and gaps in the walls by applying mortar which helps in filling up the cavities in the walls. Be sure to scrape off the excess mortar that has gathered on the walls. To ensure symmetrical lines, use a thin pipe to compress the mortar joints horizontally and vertically. Check that the bricks are in line and even periodically using either a hand level.

Most barbecue pits are made as high as the cook or builder feels comfortable to use. Use a chisel or a broad blade along with a hammer to cut the bricks in case you choose to use a concave pattern to build your barbecue. Give the mortar some time to dry and use a soft brush to clean the gravel. All you need to do is set up your grills, and your brick barbecue is ready to be used.

This brick barbecue will allow you to host some of the best barbecue parties with family and friends. So, go ahead and get ready for some real enjoyment with loved ones.