Step 7: Install an Arched Form
To support your dome build, create an arched form. First, cut two half-circles from plywood for your door area and back support. Use lumber to support the frame by attaching the front semi-circle to the back semi-circle. Then secure Lauan or similar material over the lumber supports. The result will be an arched tunnel in the shape of the oven.
Step 8: Build the Dome Sides
Working from the bottom up, stack bricks up the sides of the arch. Apply mortar to each brick, using a thicker layer on the outside to create an angle. Continue this pattern, allowing each row to close the arch as it reaches the top. Important: Near the front of the oven, leave an eight-inch square without bricks. This is where the chimney will go. You can either build up about four rows of bricks for your chimney or install a flue after removing the form.
Step 4: Build Your Base
Remove the frames from the foundation and capstone. Stack cinder blocks on the foundation to create height and provide support for the capstone. Since the slab is sloped, use mortar for the bottom row of concrete blocks, using thicker applications in areas to provide a level surface for the capstone. Check each block for square, plumb, and level as you work. Once the bottom blocks are in place, build up by staggering the seams. Secure each stone in place using landscape adhesive in between the concrete blocks, since it won’t show in the final product, and it’s easier to use than mortar.
Step 9: Remove the Form
Once the mortar is completely dry, carefully remove the screws from the front arch of the plywood. Then gently remove the frame supports and back arch of the frame, using a prybar if necessary. If it won’t release, you may need to run the blade of an oscillating saw through the mortar between the brick and the form.
Step 5: Install the Capstone
Once the base is secure, grab a few friends to help lift the capstone into place. It will be heavy.
Step 10: Apply Outer Materials
For the finishing touches, insert a flue or build up a chimney. Apply a thin layer of a mix like vermiculite or perlite with Portland cement across the entire surface of the completed dome. This will both insulate the oven for heat retention and protect the outer surface from causing burn hazards. Around the base, apply stone to create a pleasing facade. Attach a door if desired. Important Note: Before using your completed oven, be sure to “season” your oven with a few low- temperature fires before bringing it up to full heat capacity.
Step 6: Lay the Oven Floor
Use firebricks for your oven floor. Create a frame if you want a rounded shape, or lay out the bricks with your chosen pattern. Just be sure all areas within the oven floor are covered by high-heat firebricks, which can withstand extreme temperatures. Areas not in direct contact with higher temperatures can be lined with budget-friendly clay bricks. Use an angle grinder to cut the firebricks to size as needed and secure them to the capstone with a layer of high-temp mortar. Do not use mortar between the firebricks.
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