Pizza Oven Maintenance Tips for Reclaimed Brick Builds
There’s nothing quite like firing up your reclaimed brick pizza oven on a summer evening — but if you want that same joy year after year, proper maintenance is key. While reclaimed bricks are known for their durability and character, they still need care to keep them performing and looking their best.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential steps for maintaining your outdoor brick pizza oven, from seasonal cleaning to weather protection and general upkeep. Whether you’ve just completed your build or you’re preparing your oven for its third or fourth summer, these tips will help extend its life and maximise performance.
1. Cleaning Your Pizza Oven: Little and Often
One of the most important (and most overlooked) parts of oven maintenance is regular cleaning. Soot, ash, and leftover food particles can build up over time, reducing airflow and leaving unwanted smells.
After each use:
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Brush out ash using a long-handled oven brush.
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Remove debris from the cooking surface once the oven is cool.
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Avoid using water directly on hot bricks — thermal shock can cause cracking.
Seasonally:
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Give the exterior a light clean with a dry or slightly damp brush.
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Avoid pressure washers or harsh cleaning agents that can strip away the natural surface or damage mortar.
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If you've used a sealant (see below), use only recommended gentle cleaners.
Tip: A good metal pizza peel can also help keep the oven base clear during use — lifting debris along with the pizza.
2. Protecting Against the Weather
Reclaimed bricks are more breathable and robust than many modern bricks — but water, frost, and UV exposure can still take their toll over time.
To protect your oven:
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Use a waterproof, breathable cover when not in use (especially in winter). Make sure it allows moisture to escape to avoid damp build-up.
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Keep the base dry — ensure there's adequate drainage around the oven and that bricks aren’t sitting in pooled water.
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Add a small shelter or pergola if your oven is fully exposed. This can also make cooking more comfortable in all weather.
"We recommend storing your firewood well away from the oven base — wet timber can encourage moss or damp patches in brickwork over time."
3. Inspecting for Cracks and Wear
Reclaimed bricks are tough, but no outdoor structure is maintenance-free. Keep an eye on your oven for early signs of wear.
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Hairline cracks in the outer bricks are often cosmetic — but keep them under observation.
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Cracking in mortar may require repointing, especially if you notice loose joints or flaking.
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Inner fire chamber bricks (especially if fire bricks are used) should be checked for spalling or significant gaps.
If you spot anything unusual and you’re unsure whether it’s structural, snap a photo and get in touch — we’re always happy to advise.
4. Using It Safely and Sensibly
Part of prolonging your pizza oven’s life is avoiding unnecessary strain on the structure during use. That includes:
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Never lighting fires in a damp or wet oven — sudden heat can cause cracking.
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Letting the oven heat up gradually — rushing with an oversized fire can create uneven thermal stress.
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Don’t overload with wood — small, steady fires are more efficient and safer for the bricks.
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Allow cooling time naturally — pouring water or cold air into a hot oven is a recipe for cracked surfaces.
Think of it like cast iron — a little care during use goes a long way.
5. Should You Seal or Repoint Your Oven?
Whether to seal a pizza oven is a common question. The short answer? Not always.
Reclaimed bricks are naturally breathable — this is a big advantage in an outdoor oven. However, in very wet environments (or if you live in a coastal region), you may want to apply a breathable masonry sealer to protect from moisture ingress. Always test on a small area first and follow the product guidance.
As for mortar:
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We always recommend using lime mortar for outdoor ovens — it allows for subtle movement and breathability.
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If your pointing begins to crumble or gaps form, repointing may be needed. This can be a DIY job with the right mix or done by a local brickwork specialist.
Tip: Explore our guide to lime mortar and traditional pointing [coming soon].
6. Maintenance Routine Checklist
Here’s a simple seasonal maintenance routine to keep your oven in top shape:
Spring:
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Check for frost damage or movement in bricks
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Clean exterior and remove algae or moss
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Test chimney or flue for blockages
Summer:
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Light brushing after use
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Dry cover or canopy protection
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Maintain airflow to avoid overheating
Autumn:
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Final deep clean before colder months
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Inspect mortar joints and repoint if needed
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Cover or partially enclose for winter
Winter:
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Keep dry and covered
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Avoid use in extreme cold or when damp
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Use breathable cover or shelter to prevent waterlogging
Long Live the Brick Oven
Reclaimed brick pizza ovens are built to last — but like anything worthwhile, they benefit from a little care and attention. With just a bit of seasonal upkeep, your oven can be a centrepiece for garden gatherings, quiet evenings, and unforgettable meals for years to come.
Got questions about oven care, lime mortar, or reclaimed fire bricks? We’re here to help — or browse our blogs for more guidance and customer inspiration.
Ready to build one yourself? Check out our reclaimed fire bricks and pizza oven project guides below:
