Quck answer
Building an outdoor charcoal grill is a simple and rewarding project. Here are the steps to get started:
1. Choose a suitable location in your backyard for the grill.
2. Determine the size and design of the grill based on your needs and preferences.
3. Gather the necessary materials, including bricks, metal grates, and mortar.
4. Lay the foundation by creating a sturdy base using bricks or concrete blocks.
5. Build the walls of the grill using bricks and mortar, leaving an opening for the charcoal.
6. Install a metal grate for cooking on top of the walls.
7. Allow the mortar to dry and cure before using the grill.
Remember to prioritize safety by keeping a fire extinguisher nearby and practicing proper grilling techniques. Enjoy your homemade charcoal grill for delicious outdoor cooking!
Hosting guests in your backyard and grilling barbecue is an incomparable experience. While many people prefer propane grills, those who appreciate the unique flavor of charcoal grilled food may find building their own charcoal grill to be the ideal solution. Unlike metal grills that eventually wear out on the bottom, a brick charcoal grill can last for years. Additionally, an open-faced brick grill is relatively easy to clean. Constructing one now will ensure that you are ready for the upcoming football season.
Step 1
Select a suitable location for the grill pit, making sure to keep it clear of tree branches. Mark a 50×50-inch area for the foundation of the barbecue pit, which will be made from concrete. Dig a hole in the marked area, at least 6 inches deep, removing any rocks or debris and ensuring the ground is level. Note: The barbecue pit consists of two sections, with the first section being U-shaped and the inner section fitting inside the U.
Step 2
Dimensions
Prepare the fiber-reinforced cement according to the instructions on the package and pour it into the foundation area. Use a trowel to smooth the surface of the concrete. Make the back of the foundation slightly higher than the front, allowing water to run off when the grill is not in use. Allow the concrete to dry overnight.
Step 3
Soak the bricks overnight as well. This will help the concrete adhere to the bricks. Use a straight-line string to mark a square on the concrete surface, approximately 2 inches from the edge of the concrete.
Step 4
Start laying the bricks from the back of the barbecue pit, leaving a 1/2-inch gap between each brick for the mortar in a later step. The back row should be approximately 46 inches long.
Step 5
Place the side bricks about 32 inches towards the front of the barbecue pit, again leaving a 1/2-inch gap between each brick. Once the bricks are arranged in a U shape, add a second layer on top of the first. If the bricks are even and level, proceed to the next step.
Step 6
Prepare the concrete according to the package instructions. Using a trowel, remove the bricks and apply a layer of concrete to the foundation, creating a base for the first layer of bricks. Push the concrete into the gaps between the bricks. Regularly check the level of the bricks and tap them to ensure they are level. Repeat this process for all the bricks in the U shape until the desired height is reached. Clean off any excess concrete as you work to prevent it from drying on the outside of the pit. Allow the concrete to dry overnight.
Step 7
Begin constructing the inner section or hearth of the barbecue pit by placing a row of bricks on the inside walls of the U-shaped section. The bricks should protrude approximately 12½ inches from the first section. Apply concrete in the same manner as before. Stack one row of bricks on each side of the U shape, going up approximately ¾ of the way or to a height that is comfortable for you.
Step 8
Insert three sections of rebar into the wet concrete, evenly spaced from the back to the front. This will serve as support for the grill. Repeat this process two to three rows lower to hold the drip pan, if desired. The height of the rebar will depend on your preference.
Step 9
Keep laying bricks along the bottom of the inner section and continue stacking them up until you have created a sufficiently large area for the charcoal fire. Allow everything to dry.
