Installation guide

Pompeii Oven Instructions

pre-mixed mortar where necessary to ensure that the first

course of blocks is level., front and back, side to side, and

on the diagonals (Photo 2.4). Take your time with this,

because it will be increasingly difficult to correct problems

later.

2.4. Carefully lay out the first course of blocks.

In the following courses, stagger your blocks using either

8"x8"X8" blocks, or cut blocks, to ensure that the joints are

offset. Lay the next two courses, for a total of three.

After you have laid your first three courses, set your two

pieces of 2"x2" angle iron across the opening between the

two legs of the U shape. Note that the back piece of angle

iron must be cut to allow clearance for the rest of the top

course of blocks (Photo 2.5).

2.5. Cut the back angle iron to leave room for blocks.

Grind, or cut, 3/8" from the edges of each block that rests

on the angle iron, so that they lie flush with the rest of the

fourth course. Finish laying the rest of the fourth course of

blocks (Photo 2.6).

2.6. The finished stand.

After you have completely assembled the block stand,

check that the walls are square, level and plumb. Drop a

section of 1/2" rebar in every other core, and fill those

cores with concrete.

Variations

While our plans describe only a simple block stand, you

are limited only by your imagination, and the requirements

of the physical world. Some recently built variations

include a round brick oven stand, and an oven with

attached outdoor kitchen, including accommodations for a

sink and a landing area for pizza preparation.

You can have a welder build a stand from angle iron, or

you can construct a stand using metal studs.

You can form your entire stand and hearth, and pour it

with concrete. Another recent variation used a brick arch

to support the hearth, constructed on top of two linear

foundation legs (supports).