If you’re planning to upgrade your garden for summer, building a brick BBQ is a great way to create a long-lasting, functional outdoor feature. Not only does it provide a dedicated space for cooking and entertaining, but it can also become a permanent focal point in your garden.
The good news is that building a brick BBQ is a straightforward project with the right preparation, materials, and a bit of patience. In this blog, we provide a step-by-step guide on how to build a brick BBQ – from choosing the right location to constructing the grill section. But first, let’s look at the tools and materials you’ll need.
What tools and materials do I need for my DIY brick BBQ?
Before starting your DIY brick BBQ, it’s important to gather everything you’ll need. Having the right tools and materials ready will make the process smoother and help you achieve a better finish.
Materials you’ll need include:
- Bricks (engineering bricks or facing bricks depending on your desired finish)
- Cement and sand (for mortar mix)
- Concrete or ballast (for the base)
- BBQ grill tray or metal grate
- Steel lintel or support bars (for the grill section)
- Paving slabs (optional for base or work surface)
Remember, when you’re selecting your materials, be sure to choose durable, weather-resistent products, especially as your BBQ will be exposed to the elements year-round.
Tools you’ll need include:
- Trowel
- Spirit level
- Tape measure
- Brick hammer or bolster chisel
- Mixing bucket or cement mixer
- Shovel
- Rubber mallet
- Line and pins (for keeping brickwork straight)
A step-by-step guide to building a brick BBQ
Now that you’ve got everything ready, it’s time to start building. Here’s our step-by-step guide to creating a solid and practical brick BBQ that will last for years.
Step 1. Choose your location
The first step is selecting the right location in your garden. Ideally, your BBQ should be placed on level, stable ground, away from structures such as fences, sheds, or overhanging branches. You’ll also want to consider wind direction so that smoke is carried away from seating areas and your home.
Think about how the space will be used day-to-day and ask yourself:
- Is it close enough to your patio or dining area for convenience?
- Is there enough room to move around safely while cooking?
- Will you have space for prep surfaces or additional seating nearby?
Taking time to choose a practical and well-positioned location will help ensure your DIY brick BBQ becomes a feature you actually use, rather than something that feels awkward.
Step 2. Plan your layout
Next, you should plan out the layout and dimensions of your structure. This will help you visualise the final result and avoid issues once construction begins.
Most brick BBQ designs often include:
- Two side walls for support
- A back wall for stability and heat protection
- A central space for the grill tray
- Optional storage space underneath
You can mark out your design on the ground using string lines, chalk, or spray marker. This helps ensure your BBQ is square and evenly aligned before you start laying bricks.
Be sure to also think about the height of the grill for comfortable cooking, whether you want multiple grill levels, or space for additional features like a small worktop or side shelf.
Step 3. Mix up the mortar
A good mortar mix is essential when building a brick BBQ, as it holds the structure together and ensures long-term strength.
A typical mix ratio is 1 part cement to 4-5 parts sand. Start by adding your dry materials together, then gradually mix in water until you achieve a smooth, workable consistency. The mortar should hold its shape on a trowel without being too stiff or too runny.
When mixing your mortar, keep in mind to:
- Only mix what you can use within 30-60 minutes
- Keep your mix consistent throughout the build
- Avoid overly wet mortar, as this can weaken the structure
Step 4. Lay the foundation
A strong foundation will support the entire structure of your brick BBQ and prevent movement over time.
To lay the foundation, start by excavating the area to a depth of around 100-150mm, depending on the ground conditions. Fill the base with compacted hardcore or aggregate to create a stable layer, then pour a concrete base on top. Make sure the surface is level, smooth, and properly compacted.
Allow the concrete to fully cure before moving on. This usually takes at least 24-48 hours, depending on the conditions. Be patient at this stage as rushing this step can lead to cracking or uneven brickwork later.
Step 5. Build the lower section
Once your base is ready, you can begin laying bricks to form the lower structure of your BBQ.
Start at the corners and work your way along, applying mortar evenly between each brick. Use a spirit level regularly to keep everything straight and ensure each course is aligned. As you build up the walls, remember to stagger vertical joints for added strength, keep mortar joints consistent for a clean finish, and check levels frequently to avoid uneven courses.
This section forms the main support of your BBQ and may also include space for storing fuel such as charcoal or logs underneath.
Step 6. Build the tray and grill section
The final step of building a brick BBQ is constructing the section that will hold your grill and cooking surface.
Continue building the walls up to your desired height, making sure everything remains level and aligned. At the correct height, install metal supports, angle iron, or a steel lintel to hold the grill tray securely in place.
At this stage, you may also want to consider creating multiple support levels for adjustable cooking heights, leaving small gaps in the brickwork for airflow, and adding a rear wall for heat protection and structure.
Once the supports are in place, position your grill tray or grate and check that it sits level and secure.
Make sure you allow the mortar to fully cure before using your BBQ, as this ensures the structure is strong and safe when exposed to heat.
Get a quote for your BBQ materials today
Building a brick BBQ is a rewarding project that adds both function and style to your outdoor space. With the right materials and preparation, it’s a practical way to upgrade your garden in time for summer.
At JTD Building Supplies, we stock everything you need for your DIY brick BBQ – from bricks and mortar to aggregates and paving. If you’re ready to start building a brick BBQ and you’d like a quote for materials, or you need some further guidance, our team is here to help.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch today for a tailored quote and expert advice on choosing the right materials for your project.
FAQs on how to build a brick BBQ
How long does it take to build a brick BBQ?
The time it takes to build a brick BBQ can vary on a few factors such as the size and complexity of the design. You should ensure you allow time for preparing the base, laying the bricks, and allowing the mortar to begin setting before use.
What types of bricks should I use for a brick BBQ?
It’s best to use durable, weather-resistant bricks such as engineering bricks or high-quality facing bricks for your DIY brick BBQ. If the BBQ will be exposed to high heat regularly, you may also want to consider fire bricks for the inner section where the charcoal sits.
Can I build a brick BBQ on a patio?
Yes, you can build a DIY brick BBQ on an existing patio, as long as the surface is level, stable, and strong enough to support the weight. In some cases, you may still need to reinforce the base or lay a separate foundation for best results.
Do I need ventilation in a brick BBQ?
Yes, allowing airflow is important for maintaining a consistent fire. When building a brick BBQ, you can include small gaps in the brickwork or leave space around the grill section to help air circulate and improve performance.
How high should a brick BBQ be?
The ideal cooking height for a brick BBQ is usually around 90-100cm, which usually allows for comfortable use without bending too much. When planning your BBQ design, you should adjust the height to suit your own preference.
