Dome support

[gregmorse@bellsouth.net]

Hi Everyone,

I got started on my dome this weekend and all went well. I am building a 42" Pompeii style. I installed 3 courses this weekend and I know that I will need some support when I get higher. Has anyone ever used a ball and if so what diameter would I use for a 42" oven with a 21"center height. Also, I am confused on the special tool that I see on the forum; do you just place one brick at a time and let it set? Thanks for any help.

Greg

[dmun]

Re: Dome support

Some people have used an exercise ball to support the final few courses of their build: they deflate the ball to the height desired to support the almost-horizontal bricks. The radius tool you mention, (it's called the indispensable tool hereabouts) supports each brick until the mortar grabs. If you are using bricks that aren't sopping wet (just damp), and the proper consistency mortar, it will grab pretty quickly.

[gregmorse@bellsouth.net]

Re: Dome support

Thanks, my bricks did seem to catch pretty quickly this weekend. I will keep that in mind.

Greg