Hello All.
I have read conflicting information on Suitable materials for the Arch Vent area and Landing.

I was hoping i could use red clay bricks for the Arch and vent structure/flue and the landing in front of this area as well as normal portland brick mortar?

The floor of the Vent area i was going to use firebricks but would then put clay bricks in front outside the oven area is this ok.

Also why are dense fire bricks used in the vent area (OUTSIDE COOKING AREA)? I can understand the heat reasoning but wont this allow it to wick heat from the fire/cooking area of the dome to the outside? to me the ideal would be insulating fire bricks.

Regards
Bart