Construction Process

Our Bath-B-Q is based on the simple idea of heating the bath water with a fire lit under the tub (which is made of enameled cast iron). To make efficient use of space and the similar working requirements of a permanent barbecue and outdoor cooking system I decided to incorporate the 2 with a shared chimney.

Foundations

Because the bath will, when in use, be rather heavy, I made a foundation of reinforced concrete on which to lay the bricks. This helped give me a level starting point and clearly defined the shape.

Using recycled bricks and mortar made of local beach sand I built up the shape, attempting to keep it level and parallel. To assist with this I made a wooden jig the size of the bath to ensure each layer of bricks would accommodate the bath.

Thinking ahead

Because I intend adding a privacy screen I cast 2 metal brackets into the brickwork (as seen in the photo - click to enlarge). The aim being to secure part of the screen / fence to the brickwork.

Thought was also given to supporting the grill (for the file) and the cooking plate for the barbecue end. I did not make these permanent in case they required replacement or I wanted to substitute a steel basin for the plate for plucking chickens or stewing stuff away from the house

Drainage

Laying out a field drain of punched drainflo pipe and gravel chip.

This gets the water out of the way when the plug is pulled and distributes it to some plants along the way.