The cost of building a cinder block bench can vary greatly depending on size, complexity and the type and quantity of materials used. Basic benches constructed with two rows of cinder blocks and a wooden plank for seating can cost anywhere from $20 to $80.
If customizations such as seat cushions and back cushions are incorporated into the bench, the cost can increase significantly. More complex benches can cost more depending on the added features such as built-in shelves, planters, overhead canopies, awnings, lighting, or other accents.
Additionally, the cost of labor will vary depending on the level of experience of the contractor hired to construct the bench.
What do you need to make a cinder block bench?
To make a cinder block bench, you will need the following materials and tools:
Materials:
– Cinder blocks
– Mortar
– Concrete board, or 2” x 2” or 2” x 4” wood strips
– Lumber for seating, such as 2” x 4” boards or concrete slabs
Tools:
– Safety glasses
– Work gloves
– Trowel
– Hammer
– Drill
– Level
– Chalk line
– Spade
Begin by constructing the base of the bench. Take two cinder blocks and place them side by side to make the front of the bench. Insert a piece of concrete board in between them as a stabilizing support.
Continue placing additional cinder blocks side by side, and inserting the boards, until the desired size of the bench is achieved.
Next, mix the mortar according to the instructions on the package, and use your trowel to apply it to the tops of the cinder blocks. Create a level surface using a level and insert the lumber for seating into the mortar.
Place the seating boards in a pattern of your choice for visual interest.
Now, you can use a hammer or drill to secure the boards to the bench base. Using a chalk line, you can also mark the bench to ensure that the boards are evenly spaced. Afterwards, spade out any extra mortar to complete the construction.
Lastly, finish off the bench by applying a concrete sealant to the seating as well as the cinder blocks to protect them from the elements and make it easier to clean.
With the right materials and tools, making a cinder block bench is a great way to add a unique outdoor seating option to your backyard.
Are cinder block benches comfortable?
No, cinder block benches are not typically considered comfortable to sit on due to the hard and uneven surface. Cinder blocks are designed to be used as building foundation blocks, so the top surface of the block is not meant for seating.
Sitting on these benches can cause discomfort, especially for those with back or joint issues. Cushions, seat pads, or other personal items may help make sitting on a cinder block bench more comfortable, however it’s not advised for long periods of time.
How can I make a cheap bench?
Creating a cheap bench is an achievable task with a few supplies and tools. You will need some lumber, a saw, a drill, screws, and some sandpaper. To get the lumber for your bench, you should look at local home improvement stores for discounted wood.
If you can’t find the lumber you need there, you can also check out local lumber yards or Craigslist. For the saw, you can use a table saw, circular saw, or hand saw; whatever you have available. The drill and screws are used to attach the lumber pieces together, so make sure to get screws that will fit the size of holes you’ll need to drill.
Lastly, for finishing, use some sandpaper to make sure the bench is even and smooth.
Once you have the supplies, measure and cut your lumber pieces according to the desired dimensions of your bench, and then drill the holes where necessary. Next, attach the pieces together using the screws, and make sure everything is secure.
Once assembled, sand down any rough edges and surfaces, and you’ll have a cheap, homemade bench.
Can you spray paint cinder blocks?
Yes, you can spray paint cinder blocks. Painting cinder blocks is an easy project that can completely transform the look and feel of your space. After cleaning the cinder blocks to remove any dirt and dust, use a primer to ensure that the paint will adhere properly.
Depending on your desired look, use a brush, roller or sprayer to apply the paint in thin even coats. A sprayer will give you the best coverage and will result in a more professional finish. After the paint is applied and dried, use a sealant on the cinder blocks to provide additional protection against the elements.
With just a few simple steps, you can have a stunning new look in your space.
How do you make patio furniture out of cinder blocks?
Making patio furniture out of cinder blocks is a great DIY project that can create a modern and distinctive look in your garden or patio. Here’s how it’s done:
1. Gather your supplies. You will need a few cinder blocks, cinder block caps, screws, and a drill. You’ll also want to pick up some weatherproof paint in a color that you like- that way you can finish your piece in style.
2. Begin by cleaning the cinder blocks. You want to make sure that the surface of the blocks is free from dirt and debris. Once this is done, you are ready to assemble the cinder blocks.
3. Arrange your cinder blocks in the desired pattern. You can make simple benches and tables, or construct a more complex seating area with multiple levels. Once you have the arrangement you like, use the screws and drill to secure the blocks together.
4. Attach the cinder block caps. This will give your project a finished look, as well as prevent moisture from accumulating inside the blocks and causing deterioration. If desired, you can use your weatherproof paint to finalize any decorative accents.
Finally, sit back, relax, and enjoy your stylish new patio furniture!
How do you build a cinder block seating wall?
Building a cinder block seating wall is a relatively easy job that requires few supplies and minimal skill levels. Here is a step-by-step guide outlining how to do it:
Start by planning out the seating wall area and measuring the space available. All blocks should ideally be the same size, so if a variety of blocks are available to use then choose the size that will fit the area.
Next, calculate the number of cinder blocks you need, adding a few extra just in case. Purchase a suitable concrete mix. Start by laying out the blocks to make sure everything will fit before continuing.
Using a semirigid material such as a thin stone or metal to match the width of the blocks, build a level base onto hard-packed soil. Make sure that it slopes downward from the wall slightly.
Mix the concrete and then pour a few inches of concrete into the bottom of the wall area before adding the first block. Press the blocks into the concrete firmly, ensuring that each one is level. Every other course should be staggered for stability.
Continue adding blocks until the desired height is reached. Use a chisel to create channels in the horizonal blocks for vertical reinforcement rods. For any long runs, a bond beam should be used.
Push the rods into the channel and cut the metal to length using wire cutters or a hacksaw. Remove excess metal or concrete the metal into the block.
Continue until the entire gap has been filled and the placement of the wall is complete. Allow the concrete to dry and cure. Finish the surface of the wall with a matching cementitious render.
Once dry, a sealer can be applied if desired. Finally, pile dirt behind the wall and put the final touches like plants and outdoor furniture. That’s all there is to building a cinder block seating wall.
Are cinder blocks load bearing?
Cinder blocks, also known as concrete masonry units (CMUs), are a key component of masonry construction. Generally, cinder blocks are not typically used as a load bearing material, meaning they cannot support the weight of structures and loads above them.
However, they are often used as part of a load bearing wall, which typically consists of both a foundation and a structural frame. Cinder blocks are excellent at supporting the weight of the building’s foundation as they provide stability and strength with their heavy-duty material.
Moreover, they can provide the necessary insulation and soundproofing that is required in some types of construction. Additionally, they are a common choice for use in retaining walls due to their strength and durability.
In summary, cinder blocks are generally not considered to be load bearing, but they can certainly be used as part of a load bearing wall if necessary.
Is there a difference between concrete block and cinder block?
Yes, there is a difference between concrete block and cinder block. Concrete blocks are made from a mixture of Portland cement, water, sand, and gravel. They are typically used in walls and foundations, as well as structures like retaining walls, fireplaces, and garden walls.
Concrete blocks are very strong and durable, and they have a higher density than cinder blocks.
Cinder blocks, also known as concrete masonry units (CMU), are made from a mixture of Portland cement and coal cinder. They are often used as foundation walls and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
They are lighter in weight than concrete blocks and moderately durable, but not as strong. Cinder blocks are less expensive than concrete blocks.
How strong is a cinder block?
Cinder blocks are a type of masonry building material used for walls, fireplaces, and walkways. They are extremely durable and have a high weight-bearing capacity, making them an ideal construction material for structures that must withstand substantial stress.
The strength of a cinder block depends on its type, size, and the quality of the concrete used to make it. Generally, a standard size 8″x8″x16″ cinder block can withstand approximately 2500 psi (pounds per square inch) of compression when laid in mortar.
Cinder blocks made with a higher quality mix of concrete can stand up to even more pressure. Additionally, cinder blocks may be reinforced by steel bars to provide extra strength. All in all, cinder blocks are among the strongest building materials available and are often used in high-traffic or load-bearing applications.
What type of block is used for load-bearing walls?
Load-bearing walls are typically constructed of two important materials: concrete blocks and brick masonry. Concrete blocks are typically used for brick-style construction, where a concrete block is used as the basic building block.
Brick masonry, however, is the more traditional choice for load-bearing walls. In brick masonry, a stronger, more durable type of brick is typically used, connected through the use of mortar. The mortar acts as a bonding agent and also adds structural strength to the wall.
Additionally, brick masonry involves the use of steel reinforcing rods (rebar) which are threaded through the mortar and brickwork, to further increase the integrity and strength of the wall. In either choice (concrete block or brick masonry), load-bearing walls are usually thicker than non-load-bearing walls, due to the significant amount of material needed to support greater overall weight.
To summarize, the two most common types of blocks used for load-bearing walls are concrete blocks and brick masonry.
How many cinder blocks do I need for a bench?
That depends on the size of the bench you are hoping to build. A standard cinder block is 8″ x 8″ x 16″ and a typical bench requires two blocks per section. Therefore, if you want a 4′ bench, you would need 6 blocks (24 inches divided by 16 inches = 1.
5 blocks per section x 4 sections = 6 blocks). If you want a longer bench, like 6′ or 8′ you would need 9 blocks or 12 blocks respectively. Additionally, if you are planning to add a back rest, you will need to factor the additional blocks needed into your calculation.
Finally, determine whether you need to strengthen the sections with mortar and/or additional support.