first timer west sussex pompeii build

[seka1980]

Hi all

I've been lurking on here for a few years and I'm about to start my first build I have quite a few questions!

the first question i have is that when i build the dome im going to be using standard bricks What ever i can find. when looking at other build on this site ive seen the some people who have been using standard bricks have been puting quite big mortar gaps in each course, would i be right in saying that its best to keep these small so when you look into the oven you only see the bricks



here is my layout let me know what you think



cheers

Jon

[downunderdave]

Using house bricks is a bit of a gamble, they may be suitable and they not be, as they're designed for buildings not WFO's. At least try to get firebricks for the floor, because if any spalling takes place there, particularly the ones in the centre, they can be replaced. Therefore the floor bricks are usually laid loose. This also allows for expansion.
If using house bricks get solid ones not the wire cut bricks with holes in them.

If your corner build has walls or a fence on both or either of the sides you will be cursing when you get to applying the outer render layer because it's so close, particularly at the base of the dome.As well as being difficult to apply the render it leaves a corner that's difficult to access and becomes a reservoir for dirt and rubbish, quite difficult to clean.

[oblertone]

Keeping the internal gaps small is the aim, not always achievable but it is the aim mainly because the mortar degrades in the heat and may end upon whatever you are cooking; I used 200 year old bricks from a demolished chimney and they're working fine.

[seka1980]

thanks for the info

Im planning on using fire bricks for the hearth and building the dome with normal bricks

[seka1980]

I have a quick question, I have just got my hands on a load of Thermalite blocks they are the larger trench blocks as in the photo 215mm x 215mm x 440mm
it there any problem with me using these for the inside main supporting walls of the base instead of concrete blocks my under standing is that although these lightweight blocks can hold as much weight but the fact that they are twice as wide will make it ok?, the out side skin of my base will be made with reclaimed bricks

[simon]

TLDR; those blocks are fine for your supporting walls.

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Judging by the scratches on the side of the block, you may have

forterra.co.uk/thermalite-and-aggregrate-blocks/thermalite-aircrete-block-detail/thermalite-aircrete-party-wall

blocks. Anyway you're in the ballpark of 4N blocks. What does that mean? For every mm squared of area, those blocks can take 4 Newtons of force which is close to 400 grammes. A 215x440 block has a rating of roughly.... 37840 Kg!

Many blocks you build houses with (not aerated concrete) are 3.6N, so these blocks are not weak at all. They can be brittle though.