Barbecue in style on a grill enclosed in decorative block

(BPT) - Barbecue season is a time when family and friends can enjoy cooking outdoors together. In fact, this popular annual pastime is as strong as ever with 58 percent of American adults agreeing that cooking outdoors is more fun and relaxing than dining out, according to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association. While there are a variety of options for cooking outside, barbecue grills are the preferred choice in many homes around the country. Unfortunately, some barbecue grills can detract from the beauty of a backyard without being dressed up a little.

Enclosing a barbecue grill in decorative brick, block, stone or pavers is a great idea for adding an attractive and functional outdoor cooking tool in the backyard. However, for most homeowners the project would require hiring a professional in addition to purchasing materials, which could get expensive. A more cost-efficient alternative is to enclose an existing barbecue grill using a do-it-yourself block kit like Rumblestone from Pavestone. The kit ensures that all the blocks fit together correctly without any cutting, so assembly of a barbecue grill enclosure is fast and easy.

Steps for building a block barbecue grill enclosure using a kit.

Note: Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection while you work.

* Outline the size and shape of the block enclosure around the barbecue grill.

* Place the first layer of blocks in the desired barbecue grill enclosure shape as the foundation.

* Place the barbecue grill on top of the first layer of block and make sure it is level.

* Place the second layer of blocks in pre-determined staggered pattern around the barbecue grill so they bridge the layer below and no joints line up.

* Repeat the previous step until the enclosure around the barbecue grill is completed.

* Be sure to include holes in the rear of the block enclosure to allow heat to escape the barbecue grill, as indicated in the kit directions.

Using Quikrete polyurethane construction adhesive placed between the layers of block is a great way to strengthen the barbecue grill enclosure, although it’s not required. For more tips, direction and information on enclosing a barbecue grill or other brick, block, stone or pavers home improvement projects, visit www.pavestone.com or look for Pavestone on Facebook.