Dear James: Our gas barbecue grill just rusted out and I want to build a masonry one that uses charcoal or wood. What is the simplest construction method that still looks nice? — Kevin W.
Dear Kevin: Propane or natural gas barbecues are convenient to use, but they do not provide the same flavor as food grilled over charcoal. For more of a wood flavor, cans of flavored wood chips can be added to the charcoal fire to create unique flavors for meats and vegetables.
No matter what construction method you select, you will have to provide for control of the heat for different types of foods. With charcoal, it is not as simple as just turning a gas valve. Build your barbecue with several sets of ledgers (rests) for the charcoal grate so that you can adjust the fire up or down. Four levels ranging from 9 to 15 inches below the cooking grate work well….