What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned pizza enthusiast or a novice looking to impress your guests, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and instructions you need to create a functional and beautiful pizza oven in your backyard.
- Place your pizza on a preheated pizza stone or peel and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Reduce the temperature or move the pizza to a cooler spot in the oven.
Building a brick pizza oven is a rewarding project that can elevate your outdoor cooking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pizza enthusiast or a novice looking to impress your guests, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and instructions you need to create a functional and beautiful pizza oven in your backyard.
Materials and Tools
Materials:
- Firebricks (high-temperature bricks)
- Mortar (refractory mortar)
- Sand
- Cement
- Gravel
- Insulation blanket
- Stainless steel door (optional)
Tools:
- Shovel
- Trowel
- Level
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Mixing bucket
Site Preparation
Before you begin building your pizza oven, choose a suitable location in your backyard with ample space and good ventilation. Dig a trench around the perimeter of the oven base, approximately 12 inches deep and 18 inches wide. Fill the trench with gravel for drainage.
Base Construction
1. Lay a layer of sand in the prepared trench, compacting it firmly.
2. Mix cement with sand in a ratio of 1:4. Spread the mixture over the sand and level it.
3. Place the first layer of firebricks on the cement base, ensuring that they are flush and level.
Arch Construction
1. Create a wooden form for the arch using plywood or OSB. The shape of the arch should be a quarter circle.
2. Place the firebricks on the form, starting from the center and working towards the edges.
3. Use mortar to bond the bricks together, ensuring that the joints are tight.
4. Remove the form once the mortar has set.
Insulation
1. Apply an insulation blanket to the inside of the oven dome.
2. Cover the insulation with a layer of wire mesh for added support.
Door Installation (Optional)
If desired, install a stainless steel door at the front of the oven. Cut an opening in the arch and secure the door in place with mortar.
Curing
Once the oven is complete, allow it to cure for several days. This will give the mortar time to set and the insulation to dry.
Firing the Oven
1. Start with a small fire in the center of the oven.
2. Gradually increase the size and intensity of the fire over the next few hours.
3. Maintain a temperature of around 800-900 degrees Fahrenheit for several hours.
4. Let the oven cool slowly overnight.
Using Your Pizza Oven
Your pizza oven is now ready to use. Preheat the oven to the desired temperature, typically between 700-800 degrees Fahrenheit. Place your pizza on a preheated pizza stone or peel and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality firebricks and mortar.
- Allow ample time for the oven to cure.
- Start with a small fire and gradually increase the temperature.
- Preheat the oven before using it.
- Use a pizza stone or peel to cook your pizzas.
Troubleshooting
- Oven doesn’t heat up evenly: Check the insulation and make sure there are no gaps.
- Pizza crust burns quickly: Reduce the temperature or move the pizza to a cooler spot in the oven.
- Pizza doesn’t cook through: Increase the temperature or cook for longer.
FAQs
Q: What type of firebricks should I use?
A: Use firebricks rated for high temperatures, typically around 2,300 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: How long should I cure the oven?
A: Allow the oven to cure for at least 3-4 days before using it.
Q: How often should I fire the oven?
A: Fire the oven every few months to maintain its condition.
Q: Can I use the oven for other purposes?
A: Yes, you can use the oven to cook bread, roast meats, or bake vegetables.
Q: How can I clean the oven?
A: Use a stiff brush to remove any debris. Avoid using water or cleaning agents.
