Temporary Big Grill

This is my big grill. I just stacked it here real quick for temporary use. I did not cut any brick for a properly fitting structure, or prepare a good foundation. I had taken the previous grill down to install the patio stone. Becky called for a bar-b-q before I could hardly get the gravel spread, and I had about an hour to get this built.

I like making the grill from stacked brick without mortar. I incorporated a large rectangle cut stone into the previous grill on the side as a shelf, and that worked very well. I am thinking up a more permanent grill designed to be used until such time in the future when I pave the patio with something like concrete tiles. I am keeping my eye out for a better cast iron grill. I should make some sketches so I have something more definite to guide me.

The fire box is lined with fire brick. The two bricks under the coal rake on the left go on top of the left corner. The two bricks on either side fill in the space as on the other two sides. The grill rests on top. To adjust down, I remove a brick all the way around and turn the gap fillers on their sides. Usually, I just use a lot of charcoal and keep the grill up high. Having the spaces filled in keeps the fire burning lower. If the weather is cool and wet then the grill has to be low and the sides open to keep the heat up.

In the bottom photo the grill is in its place, about ready, as the coals are heating up. Of course, any vegetarians may see this grill as truly monstrous.