Reclaimed Fire Bricks in Action: Real Pizza Oven Build + Top Tips
Thinking about building your own wood-fired pizza oven this summer? You’re not alone — and the good news is that you don’t need to compromise on quality or sustainability to make it happen.
Here at Reclaimed Brick Company, we’ve helped countless customers source the right bricks for high-heat projects. But one case in particular stands out: a beautifully executed backyard pizza oven, built entirely with our reclaimed fire bricks, salvaged from Sheffield’s industrial heritage.
From Steelworks to Pizza Oven: A Real Customer Build
In 2022, a local homeowner in South Yorkshire decided to create a traditional, wood-fired oven in their garden. With an eye on both performance and aesthetics, they turned to our team for expert advice and chose our reclaimed refractory fire bricks — high-spec bricks originally used in Sheffield’s steel industry.
These reclaimed bricks have been tried and tested in extreme heat environments, with the following technical specs:
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Heat rating: Up to 1500°C
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Alumina content: 48% for enhanced thermal resistance
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Condition: Carefully hand-sorted and cleaned for direct reuse
The final structure balances form and function — delivering even cooking temperatures while also blending seamlessly into the outdoor space thanks to the bricks’ natural patina and rustic charm.
“The bricks gave it a proper character – they hold the heat brilliantly and the finish looks like it’s been there for years.”
— RBC Customer, 2022
Why Choose Reclaimed Fire Bricks?
Whether you’re building a compact oven or a full outdoor kitchen, the type of brick you choose matters. Standard building bricks can crack under extreme heat — but reclaimed fire bricks are built for it.
Here’s why they’re the top choice:
✔️ Superior Thermal Mass
They absorb and radiate heat evenly — ideal for slow cooking or high-heat bakes.
✔️ Industrial Grade Durability
Originally used in kilns and furnaces, they won’t flake or fracture like modern bricks.
✔️ Eco-Conscious Choice
By choosing reclaimed, you’re extending the lifecycle of premium materials and reducing environmental impact.
✔️ Authentic Look
The aged texture, colour variation, and industrial wear give every oven a unique, heritage finish.
Browse our fire bricks collection →
🛠 How to Build Your Own Pizza Oven (And What to Avoid)
Not sure where to begin? Our step-by-step guide walks you through the process — from groundworks to dome shaping: See the full how-to article
But beyond the step-by-step, here are a few extra tips we’ve learned from customers:
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Use a fire brick base (not concrete blocks) to prevent cracking
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Don’t skip insulation — it’s essential for keeping heat inside the oven
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Build the dome low and tight for better heat circulation
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Consider a flue to improve air flow and manage smoke
We also recommend checking out our educational blog explaining the science behind fire bricks: Why Fire Bricks Are Essential
Looking Ahead: Summer Builds & Inspiration
With longer evenings and warmer weather, now’s the perfect time to get started on a summer build. Whether it’s a pizza oven, BBQ enclosure, or garden fireplace, we have the materials — and the advice — to help you succeed.
✔️ Full and part pallets available
✔️ Local and nationwide delivery
✔️ Friendly advice via phone or email
We’re also inviting customers to submit their pizza oven photos — your project could be featured in our next case study or social post!
📧 Share your photos with us: info@reclaimedbrickcompany.co.uk
Your Next Step Starts Here
Our stock of reclaimed fire bricks changes regularly, but we always aim to keep high-heat grade bricks available for DIY projects. Every order is hand-packed at our Sheffield yard and backed by our commitment to quality.
📍 Based locally? Visit us in person and browse materials on-site.
🧱 Building something bespoke? Let us help find the right brick match.
