Napa WFO dome & hearth build questions

[EricU]

Originally Posted by Aegis

...I can see why it has taken you more than a weekend to build!...

Thanks for the props, I just finished the lawn and now it is time to get back to the WFO build, All I need to do is finish up the dome surrond using split redwood, granite paver splits and maybe a clock to go with the speakers and lights.

I am probably going to do the counter tops next. polished "wine and beer bottle infused" at the bar, simple colored and steeled finish on the sitting wall and a Buddy Rhodes press on the upper BBQ.

[Aegis]

Hi Eric,
Love the dogs! I noticed you didn't have a flue for the curing fires, was it a problem or did it help with a lower/slower fire.
Great build and beautiful patio/kitchen area!
John

[EricU]

Originally Posted by Aegis

...I noticed you didn't have a flue for the curing fires, was it a problem or did it help with a lower/slower fire...

John, I have been running the WFO without a flue since I finished the dome last year and have been on other home projects. The lack of a flue hasn't had any real negative effect other than my keystone rock looks kind of dark now!

I cured my oven no problem and started cooking in it about the third or fourth fire when I realized that the 300-400 degree oven temps was perfect for cooking meats nice and slow.

The lack of a completed flue has not stopped me from enjoying my WFO at all and we use it two to four times a week depending on the weather (cooked two turkeys in it last night, and they are good).

My dome has a couple of cracks in it when it gets good and hot that open and let visible steam out but I don't care as it cooks fine and I will fill my upper enclosure with pearlite anyway.


I do need to finish the flue and upper enclosure sometime, but my wife has made a "honey do" list and the WFO isn't on top!

Eric