Building a Barbecue

Written by Lee Wyatt (last updated May 10, 2019)

Even though there are all kinds of makes and models of barbecues out there that you could buy, why not go for something that is a little more unique and personal? One way that you could create a truly unique backyard is by building a barbecue. It's not that difficult, and all you really need is a few bricks, some mortar, concrete, and a grill. With all of that in hand, in as little as 72 hours you could have a beautiful new brick barbecue to enjoy.

  1. Choose your spot. The location of your barbecue is almost more important than the barbecue itself. Choose a spot that is relatively close to your house, away from any windows, and that doesn't have any overhanging branches.
  2. Lay the foundation forms. In your chosen location, dig a square that is large enough for your barbecue (about 4 feet by 4 feet) and four inches deep. Make the area as flat as possible, though with a slight slope from the back to the front. This will allow water to flow away from the barbecue after it has been built. Along the outside edges of the square, insert some 6 inch wooden forms.
  3. Pour your foundation. Mix and pour the concrete foundation according to the directions on the cement bag. When you pour the cement, only pour about 3 inches, and then lay down some rebar (about three pieces should do) in the cement. After laying the rebar, pour another three inches. Allow the cement to cure for at least 48 hours.
  4. Design your barbecue. While you are waiting for the cement to cure, begin designing the layout for your barbecue. Use whatever design is most pleasing to you, but remember to have your grill about 30 inches off of the ground, with a fire box about 24 or 25 inches from the ground.
  5. Start laying bricks. Spray the concrete pad with some water before to help with the adhesion of the bricks. Begin mixing the mortar according to the manufacturer's directions, and then applying it to one long edge, and one short edge of a brick. Set the brick down where you want it, and then repeat for the rest of the first two layers of bricks. Be sure to alternate the pattern of the bricks for additional strength. Check to make sure that the lines are straight, and that the structure is level before continuing.
  6. Continue laying bricks. Repeat step five up until you reach the area for your fire box. Make a slight ridge by using a larger brick than you normally would, or by reorienting the bricks that you are using. After making that ridge, continue up until you reach the area for your grill. Repeat the same process for making another ridge.
  7. Finish laying bricks. Continue to lay the remaining bricks that you need for your design. Once you have finished, touch up the mortar between the bricks by using a small piece of pipe to create the proper concave shape. Allow the structure to cure for at least 24 hours before you use it the first time.

Author Bio

Lee Wyatt

Contributor of numerous Tips.Net articles, Lee Wyatt is quickly becoming a regular "Jack of all trades." He is currently an independent contractor specializing in writing and editing. Contact him today for all of your writing and editing needs! Click here to contact. ...

MORE FROM LEE

Getting Rid of Star of Bethlehem

Depending on whom you ask, Star of Bethlehem is either a weed or a beautiful flower. The thing is, regardless of how you ...

Discover More

What is the Best pH Level for Grass?

There are a couple of questions that any serious home gardener has asked about their lawn at least once. Perhaps the most ...

Discover More

Controlling High Blood Sugar

Whether you are currently diabetic, or simply afraid you may become diabetic, learning methods of controlling high blood ...

Discover More

Cordless, Compact, and Powerful! DeWalt's 18-volt drill-driver kit packs a big punch in a small package, with a powerful high-performance motor tucked away inside a compact design. A great addition to the tool chest of any professional or DIYer! Check out DeWalt 18-Volt Drill/Driver Kit today!

More Home Improvement Tips

Kitchen Makeover

Does your kitchen seem old and outdated? Give this area a makeover to get a fresh look.

Discover More

Lowering Costs on Projects

If there is any drawback to doing a home improvement project, then it has got to be the cost. Whether you are doing the ...

Discover More

Removing Popcorn Ceiling Texture

For years popcorn ceiling texturing has been a popular choice among homeowners. However, just because it used to be ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 6 - 0?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)