In this section we‘ve tried to provide a step-by-step plan to restore a two-part bakehouse, a type which is very common in Belgium. With a few small alterations you can also use this plan to restore a free-standing or an indoor oven.
Once you are familiar with the different components of a bread oven, you can examine your own oven to determine exactly what needs restoring.
First look at the condition of the oven vault and floor. After all, these are essential components for baking and they are the most difficult to restore. Their condition may determine whether or not you want to proceed with the restoration.
If you do decide to restore it and you know exactly what has to be done, you can proceed.
Restoration of the roof
If the oven vault is still in good condition, you first have to ensure that it is protected from the rain. Rain makes the clay coating of the vault soft, it can even wash it away.
Make sure that there are no leaks in the roof. If the roof cannot be repaired immediately, you can temporarily protect the oven with a canvas. If the oven vault has to be restored or rebuilt, you have to address this first before rebuilding the roof.
