Building a concrete block wall adds texture, design elements, and functionality to your outdoor spaces. Whether it’s an accent wall, garden wall, or retaining wall, concrete blocks offer durability and versatility. Using dry-stacked concrete blocks and surface-bonding cement provides a simple solution. This method simplifies the process and makes it more accessible for DIYers.
This guide will discuss the steps to build a low-maintenance, affordable concrete block wall using Quikrete Quikwall Surface Bonding Cement. This product delivers structural strength and a textured ‘stucco’ finish in a single application, making it an excellent choice for new construction and rehabilitation of existing concrete walls.
Materials Needed for Building a Concrete Block Wall
Before starting your project, gather the following materials:
- 50-pound bags of Quikrete Quikwall Surface Bonding Cement
- Quikrete 5000 High Strength Concrete Mix (for footing)
- 10-ounce Quikrete Stucco & Mortar Color (Liquid) (optional)
- 8-by-8-by-16-inch concrete blocks
- 8-by-8-by-8-inch concrete blocks
- Chalk line
- Level
- Square finishing trowel
- Mortar tub or wheelbarrow
- Mixing hoe
- Rubber mallet
- Bucket
- Mason’s string
- Masonry trowel
- Garden hose with spray attachment
- Rubber gloves
- Safety glasses
With these materials on hand, you can start your concrete block wall project confidently.
Preparing the Foundation
A solid foundation forms the bedrock of a lasting concrete block wall. The footing provides the essential stability that supports the entire masonry structure, providing both safety and durability.
Adding the Concrete Block Wall Footing
All concrete block walls, whether structural or non-structural, require a solid, poured concrete footing. Use Quikrete 5000 for the footing construction due to its high strength and fast-setting properties.
The poured concrete footing should be at least twice the width of the concrete blocks you plan to use for the wall. For example, standard 8-by-8-by-16-inch blocks require a 16-inch-wide footing.
The footing depth must go below the frost line, where groundwater in the soil will likely freeze. Failing to do so could cause the foundation to shift once the frozen groundwater thaws.
Be sure to review local building codes for any construction requirements.
Building the Concrete Block Wall
Building the wall itself marks the point where the project takes shape, transforming basic materials into a precisely structured feature of your landscape.
Laying the First Course of Blocks
After the footing has cured, dry-lay the first row of blocks on top of it, marking their positions with a chalk line. Use a level and mason’s line to ensure accurate alignment. The first course of blocks sets the wall’s alignment and stability, so it’s important to approach this step carefully.
Start by dry-laying the blocks and positioning them without mortar to check their placement. Use a mason’s line and level to confirm the blocks are aligned correctly, then mark their positions with a chalk line. Once the blocks are in place, remove them to reveal the marked path.
Next, apply a ⅛-inch bed of Quikwall mortar mix to the footing, making sure it’s evenly spread and firm enough to support the course. Place the first row of blocks, checking for level and straightness every three to four blocks as you go.
You lay the foundation for the entire wall’s integrity by setting a precise and stable base.
Dry-Stacking the Remaining Blocks
After setting the first course of blocks, proceed by dry-stacking the remaining blocks in a running-bond pattern up to the desired height and interlock all corners. With a level and stable foundation in place, stack the blocks efficiently, making steady progress.
As you build, use the running-bond pattern to arrange the blocks in a staggered layout, which provides structural strength. Pay close attention to the corners, using an interlocking pattern to enhance the wall’s stability further. Periodically check with a level to keep the wall plumb and properly aligned.
This approach allows for easy adjustments and gives a clear preview of the wall’s appearance before applying surface bonding cement.
Applying Quikwall Surface Bonding Cement
Applying Quikwall Surface Bonding Cement plays a vital role, providing both structural fortitude and the desired finish that gives your wall character.
Preparing the Wall Surface
Preparation plays a vital role in cement application, as it helps achieve strong adhesion and a smooth, even appearance. Begin by thoroughly dampening the entire surface of the wall with a garden hose. Dry blocks will absorb water from the Quikwall mix, which can affect the finish. The blocks should be moist but not saturated.
Mixing and Applying Quikwall
Apply a consistent coat of Quikwall, ranging from ⅛ to ¼ inch, to both sides of the block. Use a square finishing trowel held at a 45-degree angle, working from the bottom to the top of the wall to cover its entire surface.
To add texture to your concrete wall, use a bristle-brush broom—practice on a spare block or a sheet of cement board to refine your technique. Mastering the mixture and application of Quikwall improves the integrity and appearance of your wall.
For mixing, decide whether to hand-mix in smaller batches or use a machine for larger quantities to improve efficiency. One 50-pound bag of Quikwall typically covers about 50 square feet of wall at ⅛-inch thickness. Add one gallon of water per bag to start, adjusting with small additions as needed to achieve the right consistency. If you want to add color, mix in half a 10-ounce bottle of liquid cement color per 50-pound bag.
As you apply the Quikwall, cover the surface evenly and maintain consistent application from the bottom to the top for a smooth, uniform finish.
To get a consistent color throughout the mix, blend the liquid cement color into the mixing water before adding it to the Quikwall mix. Using the same color-to-water ratio will maintain color uniformity from batch to batch.
Curing the Surface
Proper curing prevents premature erosion and maintains the color and quality of the finish.
- Allow the freshly coated wall a minimum of eight hours to set.
- Following the initial setting, initiate the moist-curing process, regularly dampening the wall with a fine water spray.
- Repeat the damping routine multiple times per day over a span of three days for ideal curing.
This extended curing schedule guards against cracks, giving your wall beauty and resilience.
Tips for a Successful Concrete Block Wall Project
Several tips help guide your project, leading to a durable wall and a smoother building process.
Start by planning your project thoroughly. Outline the scope, considering the wall’s purpose and any local regulations that may impact its construction. Design retaining walls with proper drainage to prevent hydrostatic pressure, which leads to issues in the future. If your wall is taller than 4 feet, consult a professional engineer or an experienced mason to avoid structural problems.
Prioritize safety by always wearing protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, to minimize risks during construction. Try to time your work for moderate weather conditions to ensure optimal curing and workability.
Final Thoughts About Building a Concrete Block Wall
Building a concrete block wall using the dry-stack method and surface bonding cement offers an accessible way to create sturdy, attractive walls for various purposes. This project combines the strength of traditional block walls with the ease of a DIY-friendly process. By carefully following each step, from preparing the foundation to applying the final coat of Quikwall, you can achieve professional-looking results.
This method simplifies the wall-building process but still requires attention to detail and proper technique. Whether it’s a garden wall, retaining wall, or decorative feature, a well-built concrete block wall is an investment that provides you with value and enjoyment.
