Yes one sheet of the HD Lowes stuff I think the sheets are 12" x 24" . So this is 12" high. I believe that I used a replacement grate for the weber smokey joe as the base. I'll look at it closer when I get home, been several years since I built it.
Looks good sailor. Thanks for the pics too. It makes sens to keep the holes smaller to make the coals burn longer. Once I test out drilling I will decide which direction I will go. Is that one sheet of expanded for the top part? If so what is the length and height you used to make the circular top part?