Do It Yourself Pizza Ovens For Your Outdoor Space

The classic Margherita pizza was named after Queen Margherita of Savoy, who fell in love with the simple combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on a dough base during a visit to Naples in 1889. 

 

Importance of a good pizza oven

A good pizza oven plays a crucial role in creating authentic pizzas. Traditional wood-fired ovens can reach extremely high temperatures, which are essential for achieving a crispy crust and perfectly melted toppings. A quality pizza oven also provides even heat distribution, ensuring that the pizza cooks evenly throughout. To explore some of the best pizza ovens available, check out Backyard Escapism's fully assembled collection of wood-fired pizza ovens and countertop pizza ovens.

One of the main barriers to owning a high-quality pizza oven is the cost. Outdoor pizza ovens can be quite expensive, with prices ranging from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the model and brand. For those who want to enjoy the benefits of a pizza oven without breaking the bank, a DIY pizza oven can be a more affordable alternative. 

Benefits of building a pizza oven at home

Building a pizza oven at home has several benefits. Not only can it be a cost-effective alternative to purchasing an assembled oven, but it also allows for customization and personalization. A DIY pizza oven can be tailored to fit individual needs, preferences, and space constraints. Additionally, the process of building a pizza oven can be a fun and rewarding project that brings a sense of accomplishment and pride.

 

Homemade pizza ovens can be incredibly versatile. They can be built using various materials and techniques, resulting in ovens that range from traditional brick ovens to more modern steel or metal ovens. Moreover, DIY pizza ovens can be used to cook a variety of dishes beyond pizza, such as bread, meats, and vegetables, making them a valuable addition to any outdoor cooking space.

For a comprehensive guide to building a DIY pizza oven at home, continue reading the subsequent sections. You can also find valuable information and inspiration by exploring Backyard Escapism's blog, which covers topics such as finding the best outdoor wood-fired pizza oven, and the top reasons to buy a wood-fired outdoor pizza oven.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or a pizza enthusiast looking to explore new culinary adventures, a DIY pizza oven can be an excellent addition to your outdoor cooking space. By following the guidance and tips provided in this essay and exploring the resources available on Backyard Escapism, you'll be well on your way to creating the perfect pizza oven and unleashing your inner chef. Happy cooking!

Types of DIY pizza ovens

There are several types of DIY pizza ovens that you can choose from, each with its unique features, benefits, and drawbacks. In this section, we'll explore four popular types of DIY pizza ovens: traditional brick ovens, barrel or drum ovens, earth or cob ovens, and steel or metal ovens.

 

Traditional brick pizza oven

Description and features

A traditional brick pizza oven is the most common type of DIY pizza oven, often resembling the classic wood-fired ovens found in Italy. These ovens are built using bricks, which are excellent at retaining heat and providing even heat distribution. Brick pizza ovens can reach high temperatures, essential for achieving that perfect pizza crust. 

Pros:

• Authentic appearance and cooking experience

• Excellent heat retention and even heat distribution

• Durable and long-lasting

 

Cons:

• Time-consuming and labor-intensive to build

• Requires a solid foundation

• Can be expensive due to the cost of bricks

 

Refractory Pizza Oven

Description and features

Refractory pizza ovens, also known as castable or pre-cast pizza ovens, are made from heat-resistant materials such as refractory cement. These ovens are designed to withstand high temperatures, making them excellent for pizza baking. They have superior heat retention properties and are known for their quick heat-up time. Refractory pizza ovens often come in kit form which is what we sell, ready to assemble, providing a more straightforward option than building a brick oven from scratch.

Pros:

• Superior heat resistance and heat retention

• Faster heat-up times compared to traditional brick ovens

• Less labor-intensive to assemble, especially when purchased as a kit

 

Cons:

• May lack the aesthetic charm of traditional brick ovens

• Requires a solid foundation and careful assembly to ensure stability

• Can be costly, especially for high-quality refractory materials

 

Barrel or drum pizza oven

Description and features

A barrel or drum pizza oven is made from a large metal barrel or drum, which is cut and modified to create an enclosed cooking space. These ovens can be either wood-fired or gas-powered, depending on your preference. Barrel ovens are relatively easy to build and can also reach high temperatures for cooking.

Pros:

• Easy and quick to build

• Affordable, using recycled materials

• Can reach high temperatures

 

Cons:

• May not provide the same authentic appearance and cooking experience as a brick oven

• Metal can rust over time

• Heat retention and distribution may not be as good as a brick oven

Earth, clay, or cob oven

Description and features

An earth or cob oven is made from a mixture of clay, sand, straw, and water, which is shaped and molded to form the oven's structure. These ovens are highly sustainable, using natural and readily available materials. Earth ovens can also achieve high temperatures and provide even heat distribution.

Pros:

• Sustainable and environmentally friendly

• Can be built with minimal costs

• Good heat retention and distribution

 

Cons:

• Can be labor-intensive to build
• Requires regular maintenance and repair
• May not be as durable as brick or metal ovens

 

Steel or metal pizza oven

Description and features

A steel or metal pizza oven is made from welded steel or metal sheets, forming a sturdy and durable oven structure. These ovens can be either wood-fired or gas-powered, and they can reach high temperatures quickly. Steel or metal ovens are also relatively easy to clean and maintain.

 

Pros:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Can reach high temperatures quickly
• Easy to clean and maintain

Cons:

• May not provide the same authentic appearance and cooking experience as a brick oven

• Can be expensive due to the cost of steel or metal

• May not retain heat as well as a brick oven
  
  

Choosing the right pizza oven for your needs

Before you start building your DIY pizza oven, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure you choose the best oven for your needs. Some factors to consider include:

 

1. Budget
Your budget will play a significant role in determining the type of pizza oven you can build. Brick and steel ovens can be more expensive due to the cost of materials, while refractory, barrel, and earth/clay ovens can be more affordable options.

 

2. Space and location

Consider the available space in your outdoor cooking area and the location where you plan to build your pizza oven. Make sure there is enough room for the oven, as well as any additional structures or safety features you may need, such as a chimney or a fireproof base.

3. Cooking preferences
Think about your cooking preferences and the types of dishes you want to prepare using your pizza oven. Some ovens, such as brick and earth ovens, provide a more authentic cooking experience, while others, like steel or barrel ovens, may heat up more quickly.

4. Aesthetic preferences
Consider the aesthetic appearance of the oven and how it will fit into your outdoor space. Some people prefer the traditional look of a brick oven, while others may prefer the sleeker appearance of a steel oven.


5. Skill level and building experience
Your skill level and experience with building projects will also impact your choice of pizza oven. Some ovens, like brick and earth ovens, can be more labor-intensive and time-consuming to build, while others, like barrel and steel ovens, may be more straightforward.

 

Step-by-step building process

Once you've decided on the type of pizza oven that best suits your needs, you can begin the building process. While each oven type will have its specific building steps, the general process will involve the following stages:

 

1. Planning and preparation

• Determine the size and design of your pizza oven
• Gather the necessary materials and tools
• Select a suitable location for your oven
• Prepare the foundation and base
  
  

2. Constructing the oven

• Build the oven structure, following the specific steps for your chosen oven type

• All of our residential and commercial pizza oven kits come with full instructions and components for an easy build

• Install any additional features, such as a chimney, door, or insulation

• Allow the oven to dry and cure, if necessary

 

3. Finishing touches

• Apply any desired finishes, such as plaster, paint, or decorative elements

• Install any additional accessories, such as a pizza peel, thermometer, or firewood storage

• Test the oven to ensure it heats up and functions correctly

 

Using and maintaining your pizza oven

Once your DIY pizza oven is complete, it's essential to learn how to use and maintain it effectively. Some tips for using and maintaining your pizza oven include:


1. Properly lighting and managing the fire

• Use dry, seasoned hardwood for the best results in a wood-fired oven
• Build a small fire and gradually increase its size to prevent thermal shock
• Use a pizza peel and oven gloves to handle pizzas safely
  
  

2. Cooking techniques and recipes

• Experiment with various cooking techniques, such as using a pizza stone or cooking directly on the oven floor
• Explore different recipes for pizza dough, sauces, and toppings
• Try cooking other dishes in your pizza oven, such as bread, meats, and vegetables

 

3. Regular cleaning and maintenance

• Clean the oven floor by sweeping out any ash or debris after each use
• Inspect the oven for any cracks or damage and repair as needed
• Maintain any additional features, such as a chimney or door, to ensure they function correctly
  
  

By following the guidance provided in this essay, you'll be well on your way to building, using, and maintaining a DIY pizza oven that will provide you with delicious, authentic pizzas and a rewarding cooking experience. So, gather your materials, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to unleash your inner chef!

The impact of a DIY pizza oven

Building your pizza oven allows you to unleash your inner chef and create an authentic pizza-making experience right in your backyard. A DIY pizza oven not only adds a unique feature to your outdoor space but also provides an opportunity to explore new recipes, experiment with cooking techniques, and enjoy quality time with friends and family.

 

The joy of pizza-making

Creating your pizzas from scratch in a wood-fired oven can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. From making the perfect dough to selecting the best toppings, the entire process allows you to engage in the art of pizza-making fully. The satisfaction of serving a delicious, homemade pizza straight from your oven is truly unmatched.

 

Resources and support

As you embark on this exciting DIY project, remember that there are numerous resources and support available to guide you along the way. Websites like Backyard Escapism offer a wealth of information on topics such as choosing the best wood-fired pizza oven, comparing refractory vs. brick pizza ovens, and selecting the top types of wood for optimal taste.

 

Gather your materials, ignite your creativity, and embark on this exciting culinary journey. Your delicious, homemade pizzas await!

Happy cooking and bon appétit!