Building the Slab Frame

Scott spent the weekend building the frame for the Structural Slab. He built the sides out of 1x4's. Our goal is to have a 3 1/2" deep Structural Slab. Many Alan Scott Style ovens build a much deeper structural slab (5 1/2"). But we know the thicker you make your slab, the more time you spend heating your oven because the whole slab (and oven) has to get hot before you cook. We were told by the owner of Artesian Ovens, that 3 1/2" is a good amount, as you don't spend a full day heating your oven and yet it lasts long enough to feed a large crowd. Once again we went back to our goal: Make an oven that we can use to host a Pizza Party. We realize it isn't going to stay hot as long, and that is why we plan to insert a gas burner that we can use to 'crank up the heat' if the temperature begins to fall during events. Once again .. focus on the party.

Placing the rebar right after we poured the walls.

Scott placed plywood on the 'floor' of the slab (in the hole), which was held up with three 2x6 T's underneath. This will be removed once the slab is hard. At least that is our plan!

After the walls were dry Scott started laying the rebar and realized we had too large of a space between a couple sets of rebar. I read that they shouldn't be any closer than the depth of your slab (3 1/2") and max of 12" apart. We originally placed the center two rebars 15" apart, to prepare for our ash slot (so the rebar wouldn't have to run through it). But we were concerned about strength more than convenience.

Laying wax paper over the plywood, so it will remove itself from
the concrete easily. Notice the placement of the Ash
Slot (as far forward as possible).

He put up some braces to hold the frame in place. We are ready to pour!