Combining an outdoor fireplace with a pizza oven transforms your backyard into a space that’s both inviting and functional. It’s not just about warmth or food; it’s about building something that brings people together. While it might seem like a contractor-level project, with the right planning, tools, and pace, homeowners can absolutely take this on.
“Projects like these may look advanced, but with solid preparation and a clear plan, even homeowners without experience can build something lasting,” says Mark Shultz, a professional masonry contractor based in Colorado.
With patience and structure, this project can become the centerpiece of outdoor living for years to come.
Planning Your Outdoor Fireplace and Pizza Oven Combo
Choose the Right Location
Pick a flat, solid spot that’s free of roots or shifting soil. The location should be far enough from fences, trees, or any flammable structures, but still close enough to your kitchen for carrying wood, tools, and ingredients with ease. Accessibility and safety are both key.
Design with Function in Mind
The layout affects both function and safety. Decide whether your pizza oven will be positioned above or beside the fireplace; each approach impacts airflow and structural layout. Custom designs offer full flexibility, while ready-made kits can reduce build time. Consider size, fuel type, and chimney direction early in the design.
Check Local Building Codes
Before breaking ground, contact your local planning office. Most municipalities require permits for structures with open flames. Confirm chimney height rules, setback distances from other structures, and acceptable materials.
“Skipping permits can lead to fines or forced removal, even if the build is sound,” warns Rachel Stone, a licensed building inspector in Illinois.
Preparing the Foundation
Pour a Proper Concrete Base
Everything rests on this step. Mix and pour a concrete slab at least 4 inches thick and reinforce it with rebar or mesh. The slab must be level, stable, and fully cured before moving on. A poorly built foundation risks structural shifting and cracks later.
Learn More: How to Childproof a Fireplace Hearth?
Building the Fireplace Structure
Lay the Base Bricks
Start with the first row of concrete blocks or firebricks, carefully leveled and squared. Take your time; errors here affect every row above.
Construct the Firebox
Build the inner firebox using fire-resistant bricks and high-heat mortar. This is where the wood burns, so precision matters. Keep mortar joints tight and even to ensure a clean burn and solid draft.
Build the Chimney
A straight, well-sized chimney ensures smoke exits smoothly. Line the interior with fire-resistant flue tiles and extend the chimney high enough to meet code. A chimney cap helps prevent moisture and debris buildup.
Constructing the Pizza Oven
Shape the Oven Dome
Use a sand form, premade mold, or firebrick arch to shape the dome. Aim for consistent brick spacing to trap heat efficiently. The dome’s symmetry directly affects airflow and heat retention during baking.
Install the Cooking Hearth
The cooking floor should be flat and smooth, made from tightly placed firebricks. This surface needs to absorb and radiate heat evenly to bake pizzas properly.
Plan the Ventilation
Some designs allow the fireplace and oven to share a flue, while others use separate chimneys. Either way, proper airflow ensures smoke doesn’t backdraft into the cooking area and maintains even heat.
Read More: What Is Fireplace Ash Good For?
Finishing Touches and Personalization
Add a Stone or Brick Veneer
Cover the exterior with stone, brick, or stucco to match your patio or home aesthetic. This layer protects the structure and improves durability. Choose weather-resistant finishes for longevity.
Apply Waterproofing Sealants
Use breathable masonry sealants that protect against rain, snow, and temperature swings without trapping moisture. Reapply every few years for best results.
Tips for Successful Use and Maintenance
Cure the Structure Slowly
After construction, allow the oven and fireplace to dry completely. Then build a series of small, low fires over a few days. This gradual process prevents moisture from expanding too quickly and cracking the brickwork.
Maintain Regularly
Clear out ash after each use, check for chimney obstructions, and inspect for hairline cracks. Regular maintenance prevents costly repairs and extends the life of your structure.
Final Takeaways
Building an outdoor fireplace with a pizza oven takes effort, but the results are well worth it. Each phase, from planning and pouring to bricking and curing, requires attention to detail. With good planning, code-compliant construction, and a bit of personal style, you’ll end up with a space that brings people together and adds value to your home. Whether you’re baking your first homemade pizza or gathering by the flames on a chilly night, this is a project that pays off in memories.
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