How To Handle A Concrete Block Wall Outside?

Surface bonding cement, a product containing acrylic and fiberglass, is a practical choice for applying to vertical surfaces. To apply this cement, first prepare the concrete mixture by thoroughly wetting the whole cinder block wall and then re-wetting a 3 to 6 sq. ft. section of wall. Parging is another method to cover external cinder block walls, adding curb appeal and low-maintenance options.

Painting outdoor concrete walls can be challenging, but color always makes the concrete look better than bare concrete. With the right tools and a good plan, you can transform your exposed concrete foundation into a unique and functional space.

One way to make your concrete wall exterior more unique is by covering it with faux stones. It’s crucial that the blocks are perfectly dry to avoid trapping moisture behind the paint. For small sections, use a paintbrush, while for larger sections, use a paintbrush.

To paint a concrete wall, paint the wall black, jet wash the wall, repair any cracks or damage, and cover with masonry paint. Add trellis panels at regular intervals along the wall.

Exterior walls are constructed with uninsulated concrete blocks, which may show signs of settling but have no signs of water intrusion. Surface bond cement, such as Quickwall, can increase the strength of the wall several times over and look like stucco.

How to cover concrete walls cheaply?

The use of panelling, whether wood or composite material, represents a cost-effective solution for the covering of concrete walls. An additional option is to install panelling directly over the concrete using an adhesive or screws. Additionally, painting or wallpapering can be a cost-effective method for wall covering.

How do you make an outdoor concrete wall look nice?

Parge Cementitious Coating is a cost-effective method for creating a neat, finished appearance on concrete walls. It involves applying a smooth cement coating, which hides imperfections and can be textured with materials like pebbles or rocks. Color can be added by painting over the cement after coating it with a concrete primer or mixing colored pigment into the wet cement. A waterproofing coating can also be applied over the cement coating. Decorative Stucco Coverings, made of silica, lime, and concrete, creates a classic finish with endless color and texture choices.

How to cover exterior concrete block walls?

To clean a wall, apply a 1/4 in layer of cement, a 1/4 in layer of scratch coat, furring strips, vinyl siding, or stone veneer. Remove debris to ensure the concrete bonds to the wall. Spray away most debris with water from a garden hose, and mix 1 cup of mild dish soap into hot water to scrub off tough stains with a concrete brush. Use a power washer for extra cleaning power or rent one from a local hardware store.

For tough stains that can’t be removed by hand, mix 1 cup of trisodium phosphate in water and scrub it into the stains with a brush before rinsing off with clean water. Cover up with long-sleeved clothing, gloves, goggles, and a respirator mask.

What is the cheapest way to cover a block wall?

The optimal method for covering an interior block wall is painting, as this is the most cost-effective and time-efficient approach. Alternatively, erecting a wood or metal stud wall in front of the blocks and covering it with drywall is also a viable solution.

What can I do with an outside concrete wall?

Concrete walls are increasingly being used in gardens to add privacy and block noise. Unlike wood, concrete is resistant to warping, rot, and strong winds. It offers numerous design options, including adding patterns, textures, landscaping plants, and custom artwork. A retaining wall spanning over one hundred feet was created using alternating layers of colored concrete, with rocks and natural debris sprinkled between each layer. The wall’s organic look was achieved with random voids.

Custom ironwork and built-in planters accentuated the curved concrete walls, creating a beautiful terraced garden. The walls were stained with an Italian slate stamp pattern, and the concrete walkways, steps, and patio areas were also stained to match the walls. Overall, concrete walls offer a versatile and practical solution for homeowners looking to enhance their garden spaces.

How do you stop water from coming through concrete blocks?

Crystalline Waterproofing is a cementitious substance that can effectively waterproof a concrete block foundation by penetrating into the concrete and reacting to moisture, forming crystals and blocking micro-cracks or pathways. Concrete block foundations are crucial for home structural stability, and unattended water ingress can pose serious risks. Waterproofing provides a great useable space under the house and peace of mind.

However, concrete block walls have inherent problems in keeping things watertight, as gaps form over time as buildings settle and hydrostatic pressure from the surrounding ground exerts itself. Mortar displacement, cracks, and even the best waterproofing systems require maintenance and repair.

Can water seep through concrete blocks?

Concrete blocks used in foundations are hollow, allowing water to seep through and collect within the walls. The mortar joints between the blocks and mortar are weak points, causing cracks and spaces between them. Professional waterproofing contractors suggest two main methods to address water seepage in cinderblock foundations: using a waterproofing system to seal the cracks and prevent water seepage, and using a concrete sealer to prevent water seepage.

What should be done to the outside of a block foundation wall?

Foundation damage and water penetration in block foundations can be prevented by preventing water from entering the concrete blocks. This can be achieved by excavating and waterproofing the foundation wall, or by installing an interior weeping tile or perimeter drainage system. Both methods significantly decrease the rate of foundation deterioration. Foundation walls often need to be rebuilt or reinforced to avoid failure due to years of neglect.

The cost of rebuilding or reinforcing a wall is significant, so waterproofing is a recommended repair method. To select the most appropriate repair method for leaking block foundation walls, consider the cost, time, and location of the problem.

How to make a concrete block wall look good?

Vinyl siding represents a cost-effective and uniform solution for the covering of concrete block walls, offering a uniform appearance between adjacent structures. A variety of textures and colors are available, including those that imitate stone and wood. Nevertheless, the installation of vinyl siding on concrete presents a significant challenge due to the necessity of affixing furring strips between blocks, which increases the cost.

What is the best way to waterproof exterior foundation walls?

Poly Wall® Waterproofing Barrier Systems are the best method for waterproofing new foundation walls. These below-grade systems minimize moisture-related issues, protecting the house from moisture intrusion down to its foundation. This not only protects the house’s integrity but also reduces repair and maintenance costs, creating a healthy environment. Contact Poly Wall® professionals for more information on waterproofing for new foundation walls.