The Chamber takes shape

The walls have now been mortared together. A mixture of cement, sand and fireclay is used and the joints are kept to a minimum (about a 1/4 inch if possible). This will be the final size of the inside of the oven. You can also see the first bricks of the facade laid in place. These bricks will form the sides of the chimeny.

 
   The back wall has been completed as have the bricks that will form the base of the arches. These bricks were cut to accomodate the angle of the arches. There will be three rows of arches plus the front bricks which slope down to the lintle.
   The first row of arch bricks is laid using a wooden form. The side walls need to be supported during this phase of the construction project. There is a risk of colapse due to outward pressure on the bricks. Once everything is dry it won't be a problem. Once this row is completed the form is moved forward and the second row is laid.