FAQ
How To Mix Refractory Cement
FAQ's
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What size oven?
The perfect pizza oven size? It's all about your lifestyle, space, and how often you crave that wood-fired goodness. Check out our handy buy guide for all the specs you need. Our top picks? The 900mm and 1000mm models.
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What's in the kit
What's included in the kit? You'll find a flat-packed cardboard mould with a precision-cut template for the door. It's durable and ready to assemble, making setup a breeze.
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What kind of stand do I need?
Your pizza oven needs a strong base to support its weight, which can exceed half a ton. Here are key factors to consider:
Your Pizza Oven Base Checklist
| Weight Bearing Capacity | Ensure the base can support the oven, insulation, and any additional features. | |
| Foundation | Use a level, solid base like a concrete slab or compacted gravel to prevent settling or shifting. | |
| Materials | Opt for bricks, concrete blocks, or precast concrete slabs that can withstand the oven's weight. | |
| Dimensions | Make sure the base is large enough for the oven and provides extra space for preparation or storage. Check Fire Brick Calculator for suggested base size for each Pizza Oven In A Box mould. | |
| Ventilation | Include openings for air circulation to prevent heat and moisture buildup. | |
| Weather Resistance | Choose materials that can withstand local weather conditions, including moisture and temperature fluctuations. | |
| Accessibility | Ensure easy access for loading, unloading, and maintenance. Consider adding shelves or countertops for convenience. | |
| Design Aesthetics | Select materials and finishes that complement your outdoor area to enhance visual appeal. |
What is Refractory Cement and Where Do I Find It?
Refractory Cement for DIY Pizza Ovens
Components:
- Alumina (Al2O3): High-temperature resistance, binds aggregates.
- Silica (SiO2): Enhances workability, fills gaps for strength.
- Calcium Aluminate: Improves bonding and endurance.
Choosing the Right Cement:
- Temperature Rating: Must withstand over 1000°C.
- Composition: Look for alumina, silica, and calcium aluminate.
- Mixing Ratio: Follow manufacturer guidelines.
- Setting Time: Choose a suitable setting time for your project.
- Application Method: Ensure compatibility with casting, troweling, or pouring.
Required 25kgs Bags for Moulds:
- 700mm: 6 bags
- 800mm: 7 bags
- 900mm: 9 bags
- 1000mm: 10 bags
- 1100mm: 12 bags
Finding Suppliers:
Search online for:
Click "Copy" next to a search suggestion, then paste it into your preferred search engine to discover suppliers for your DIY pizza oven project.
Fire Brick Calculator
What You'll Need
- Masking Tape: Holds your pizza oven mould together during assembly.
- Acrylic Paint: Seals and protects the cardboard from moisture, enhancing durability.
- 6-inch Flue: Allows smoke and gases to escape for proper airflow.
- Metal Door: Provides easy oven access and traps heat for consistent cooking.
- Ash Pit: Optional but handy for maintaining cleanliness and temperature control.
- Fire Bricks: Create a sturdy, heat-resistant cooking surface.
- Calcium Silicate Insulation: Ensures consistent cooking temperatures by trapping heat. Used under fire bricks.
- Refractory Cement: Bonds oven components for strength and durability.
- Fire Cement: Seals gaps for maximum heat retention.
- Insulation: Keeps the oven hot and efficient.
- Chicken Wire: Adds structural stability and holds insulation in place.
- Wire Tie Downs: Secure all components during construction.
Required 25kgs Bags for Moulds:
- 700mm: 6 bags
- 800mm: 7 bags
- 900mm: 9 bags
- 1000mm: 10 bags
- 1100mm: 12 bags
Note: Refer to Fire brick calculator on FAQ page for base suggested size.
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How Long Does It Take To Build Foundation and Base
| 1-2 Days | Prepare and pour the foundation |
| 1-2 Days | Construct the base |
| 1 Day | Refractory Cement Application |
| 1 Week | Finishing Coatings |
| 1-2 Weeks | Drying and Curing |
| Several Days to 1 Week | Curing Burns (Perform several small fires over a few days to a week to eliminate remaining moisture) |
| Total Time: 2-3 Weeks for a thoroughly constructed and durable pizza oven. | |
This structured approach ensures each stage of the construction process is completed properly, resulting in a high-quality and long-lasting pizza oven.