Pizza Ovens, as they are commonly referred to, can actually cook a lot more than pizzas. They are ancient wood burning masonry or clay ovens that can reach high temperatures and retain heat for a long time. This makes them extremely unique and versatile, capable of producing crisp authentic Neapolitan style pizza, artisanal bread, seared, roasted or braised meat. They can be built in various sizes as long as certain dimensional ratios are adhered to for efficient and even heating, but there are several variables to consider when constructing an oven. The floor area, dome height, wall and hearth thickness will all have an effect on firing time, heat retention and fuel economy. The design will vary for commercial or home use, and depending on how the oven will be used. Firestone builds ovens that are highly functional and aesthetic, and are customized for your needs. Our goal is to create a masterpiece that will be the star of your back yard, kitchen or restaurant. Your Firestone Oven will be a conversational centrepiece guaranteed to create memorable meals and impress your friends, family and customers.
A complete build of a well designed wood-burning masonry oven is more complex than it appears. There are many layers that are built in stages… the foundation, base, hearth slab, fire chamber, insulation, cladding, chimney and roof, must all be constructed with precision.
Oven temperatures can exceed 540° Celsius (1000° Fahrenheit). And cool down to ambient temperatures of twenty five below in the depths of winter. Brick, stone & concrete do not expand and contract well and this extreme temperature change puts enormous stress on the masonry.
Firestone Ovens are built to endure repeated firings for decades without cracking, spalling and deteriorating. This is achieved by good design, quality materials and meticulous attention to detail in the construction. A poorly built oven may work fine initially, or if it is only used occasionally, but over time, cracks, loose masonry, steam spalling and even fires can occur. Repairs can be very difficult to carry out after the oven is constructed so it’s important to pay attention to every detail during the build.
We take pride in building your oven and are passionate about providing old-world craftmanship that will last more than a lifetime. Please contact us to discuss your project.