Ideas for Cement Block Walls

Size Matters

• The size of the cement blocks plays a role in the overall look and feel of your space. Smaller blocks tend to look less harsh than full-size blocks, and the smaller size also tends to hide or cover up the construction-site feel of the blocks. For a more decorative look, try mixing and matching the sizes of the blocks. Use larger cement blocks on the bottom portions of the wall and smaller blocks on the top. You can also find blocks with a variety of shapes, including ones with curved edges.

Facade Ideas

• Add a new facade to an older cement block wall or one that came with your house. Look for vinyl sheets designed for decorating the outside of a home at your local home improvement store. The sheets attach either with nails or screws or waterproof glue. Attach the vinyl piece to one end of the wall and unroll across the wall, using glue or nails on the top and bottom to secure it in place.

Painted Murals

• Painting the wall gives the cement a new look with minimal time or cost to you. Use a primer designed for concrete or cement first to seal the cement and cut down on your paint costs. When you use paint directly on top of cement, the cement absorbs the paint quickly, requiring multiple coats. Instead of a mural, add blackboard paint to the primer and let your children use the space for crafts.

Adding Flowers

• Simply planting new flowers or shrubs along the bottom of the cement transforms an outdoor cement block wall. Choose flowers that complement the colors of your home or other flowers in the yard. For a less permanent idea, add small garden trellises arranged along the wall. Plant climbing flowers or vines like ivy and wind them along the trellises. You can even grow fruits such as grapes and raspberries along the trellises, depending on your climate and location. The same idea works equally well for interior spaces. Simply add a few potted plants or flowers around the bottom of the wall, which takes the focus off the plain wall.