The Fresh Loaf

A Community of Amateur Bakers and Artisan Bread Enthusiasts.

Cracking Cob Oven

KathleenMarie's picture
KathleenMarie

Cracking Cob Oven

I completed my little cob oven about a month ago and have fully fired it for pizza a handful of times. After the first time I noticed some cracking. I know this is supposed to be normal, but these seem deep. I don't see corresponding cracks on the inside. Anything special I should do to fix them since they are so large? Thanks so much!! :)

 

tchism's picture
tchism

You can patch with more clay or add a lime plaster coat. Lime plaster is self healing with a occasional coating of lime water.

 

KathleenMarie's picture
KathleenMarie

Thanks! I'll do that. I've read your other posts about the lime plaster and will probably try that out. Thanks for the help!

tchism's picture
tchism

Best of luck!

Grouchpotato's picture
Grouchpotato

My cob oven is coated with lime plaster.  Because I foolishly underestimated the final weight of the oven and didn't lay a strong foundation, my 3 year-old oven is still settling (and cracking).  I keep a trowel and a sealed bucket of lime plaster next to the oven for occasional repairs.  The repairs add more "character" to the oven, which continues to give excellent service.