Block-Wall Styles

Block Retaining Walls

• The height of a wall has a lot to do with its durability. A fence-type wall may be constructed of blocks as little as 4 inches thick, although a structure no more than 4 feet high is recommended for this type because they are not reinforced with rebar and therefore will not withstand the ravages of weather and time. Larger, 8-inch blocks create more durable retaining walls. These are usually mortared in place, reinforced with rebar, and a stucco or cement layer may be applied on one or both outer surfaces for even more stability. The best design for a retaining wall is slightly staggered courses, each higher course set back about ¾ inch, and every course backfilled with compacted fill dirt. These walls may be straight or curved, depending on the design. According to the website Masonry and Concrete Calculators, a 7-foot-high wall constructed of 8-inch-thick concrete blocks can last a hundred years or more. The most important construction tip for retaining walls is to build a sturdy base of well-compacted gravel and coarse sand.

Block Walls in Green Construction

• Dry-stack concrete block walls are an installation method common in passive solar home designs, primarily because of the insulation qualities of concrete blocks. Only the first course is set in mortar; the remaining courses are dry-stacked in a running bond pattern, in which the course above overlaps the course beneath by exactly half a block. About every 4 feet, insert rebar and poured concrete into the vertical spaces for an extra insulation factor if constructing a dwelling using this method.

Glass Block Walls

• Glass block walls create a contemporary look for either indoor or outdoor walls. In homes, glass block is commonly used for bathroom windows or even whole exterior walls because they let in natural light without sacrificing privacy. Walls may be straight, curved or a combination. Glass block must only be used for non-load-bearing walls, and at least one jamb must be included for stability. Join with mortar or manufacturer-supplied sealant depending on the installation method.

Finishing

• For a polished look for concrete block walls, cover one or both sides with a layer of stucco or reinforced cement. An 1/8-inch layer is sufficient to add strength while offering a more decorative look than plain blocks.