There is something deeply satisfying about cooking over fire. If you want to transform your garden into a Mediterranean-style kitchen, a permanent Masonry BBQ is the gold standard.
Building one from scratch with bricks and mortar is a romantic idea, but it’s a massive undertaking. That’s why many UK homeowners are turning to Bushbeck. Their modular Masonry BBQ combine the rustic charm of stone with German engineering, giving you a professional-grade setup without the headache of laying hundreds of individual bricks.
Here is how to plan, prep, and build your dream outdoor cooking area.
1. Choose Your Location for your Masonry BBQ
Before you lift a single stone, think about placement. A Masonry BBQ is a permanent fixture—it isn't moving once it’s up.
-
Wind Direction: Position the BBQ so smoke drifts away from your seating area and your neighbours’ windows.
-
Safety: Ensure there is plenty of clearance from overhanging trees, wooden fences, or sheds.
-
Level Ground: You need a solid, completely level base.
2. Prepare the Foundation for your Masonry BBQ
A Masonry BBQ is heavy. A standard Bushbeck unit can weigh upwards of 400kg. If you place it directly on soft lawn, it will sink and crack.
-
Paving Slabs: A solid patio is usually sufficient.
-
Concrete Pad: If building on a new area, dig a shallow trench (about 10cm deep), fill it with hardcore, and top it with a level layer of concrete.
3. The "Building" Process: Why Bushbeck Wins
Traditional masonry involves messy mortar and constant levelling. Bushbeck BBQs utilise a clever modular system.
-
Double-Walled Construction: Most models feature a unique double-wall design, meaning you can burn both charcoal and logs. Most "DIY" brick BBQs can’t handle the intense heat of wood without cracking.
-
The Assembly: The components arrive on a pallet. Using the provided heat-resistant adhesive, you stack the base, the hearth, and the chimney sections. It’s like Lego for grown-ups—immensely satisfying and much faster than traditional bricklaying.
4. Customise Your Cooking Zone
The beauty of a masonry setup is the versatility. When building your Bushbeck, consider adding:
-
Pizza Oven Inserts: Many models allow you to slide in a pizza stone, turning your grill into a wood-fired oven.
-
Rotisserie Kits: Perfect for slow-roasting chicken over an open flame.
-
Cast Iron Grates: To get those professional sear marks on your steaks.
5. Finishing Touches
One of the best features of Bushbeck’s masonry products is that they are pre-finished. The white quartz or natural stone finishes don’t require painting or rendering. However, if you want a bespoke look, you can paint them with high-quality masonry paint to match your garden’s colour scheme.
Frequenty Asked Questions about Masonry BBQ
Can I use wood as well as charcoal?
One of the standout features of Bushbeck Masonry BBQs is their versatility. Unlike many standard masonry kits that are restricted to charcoal, Bushbeck units feature a double-walled construction. This allows you to burn logs safely, meaning your BBQ can double as an outdoor fireplace once the cooking is finished.
Do I need to use mortar or cement?
For a traditional brick BBQ, yes. However, Bushbeck models are designed for easier assembly using a specialist heat-resistant adhesive. This is usually provided with the kit and ensures the structure remains stable while allowing for the natural expansion and contraction that occurs during heating and cooling.
How do I clean a masonry BBQ?
Cleaning is relatively straightforward:
-
The Grill: Use a wire brush while the grate is still slightly warm to remove food residue.
-
The Interior: Once the unit is completely cool, sweep out the ash.
-
The Exterior: Most Bushbeck BBQs are made from natural quartz or stone. You can jet-wash the exterior or use soapy water to remove any soot or algae that may accumulate over winter.
Does it need a chimney?
Yes. A chimney is essential for a Masonry BBQ as it creates a natural draught, pulling smoke up and away from the chef and guests. It also helps the fire burn more efficiently by drawing oxygen into the hearth.
Can I leave it out all year round?
Absolutely. Masonry BBQ are built to withstand the British elements. They are frost-resistant and won't rust like metal kettles or gas grills. However, using a tailored weather cover during the winter months is recommended to keep the cooking area dry and ready for an early spring session.
Is the BBQ delivered pre-assembled?
No, due to the weight (often exceeding 400kg), the BBQ arrives in sections on a pallet. This makes it much easier to transport the individual components to your desired spot in the garden before final assembly.
