How to Build an Outdoor BBQ Pit
There is nothing quite like grilling burgers, chicken or steaks over an open pit barbecue, especially in your own yard. Make a pit out of used bricks, large rocks or even concrete blocks. It is easy to learn how to build an outdoor BBQ pit from inexpensive, long lasting materials. Designing and building your own BBQ pit from start to finish only takes a couple of hours.
Check with your homeowners association and local fire department before building an outdoor BBQ pit. Some associations may not allow outdoor fire pits or have rules regarding the construction.
Collect building supplies for the framework to get an idea of what materials are available. This helps to determine the finished size. Concrete blocks and bricks can be purchased from home improvement centers. A trip to the local river may provide sufficient quantities of large rocks for free.
Select an appropriate location in your yard for the outdoor BBQ pit. Avoid any areas that present a fire hazard such as over-hanging trees, dense shrubbery, firewood piles or building too close to the house.
Remove any flammable materials from the pit location such as leaves and sticks within a circle of 10 to 12 feet for safety.
Determine the size of fire pit that will be the most versatile for your grilling needs. The circumference of the pit may be determined by the size of the grill you purchase. Leave extra space to the sides for holding hot pots and grilling accessories in your design. Include room for a small table and chair if desired.
Dig a fire pit in the ground with a circular shape. A depth of about six inches should be sufficient. Make sure the shape and size fits your grill. Fill the pit with a layer of two inches of small stones or use pea sized gravel. Stones or gravel keep the pit cleaner, help with weed control and retain additional heat from the fire.
Outline the pit with large rocks or concrete blocks for the supporting walls of your grill. Adjust the rocks until you have a suitable level cooking surface and appropriate cooking height to put the grill on.
- Use your choice of mesquite, hickory wood or charcoal for grilling on your outdoor BBQ pit.