How To Build A Concrete Block Wall - Practical Applications and Construction Process

Rich in history, culture, and tradition, the City of Albuquerque in the State of New Mexico boasts of having a vibrant community and a vivacious outdoorsy lifestyle. It is known for its buzzing art scenes, famous hot air balloons, and the unique blending of old Southwestern charm and modern-day living. Strategically situated near the Sandia Mountains, Albuquerque, which is also known as the “Duke City,” also comes with an interesting aspect – its adaptability and suitability to projects involving concrete materials.

Why are Concrete Block Retaining Walls Important?

For Burquean homeowners who want to have an affordable but sturdy retaining wall that can improve their home’s curb appeal, a concrete block wall is the answer. The city’s unique climate conditions and soil compositions make for ideal concrete blocks.

Suitability

Toughness: The scorching hot climate of Albuquerque during summers that reach 93°F can be tough on building materials. It does not help that the city also experiences mild winters and occasional rainstorms. Concrete walls, however, are built to last, making them a formidable protector of your outdoor structures from elements and weathering.
Resistance: Cement walls are your No.1 protector from dust storms or rains during monsoons. Imagine it blocking the heavy rain from reaching the flooring directly, reducing the impact of water from the sky to the ground. It also acts as a protective wall against heavy winds and sandstorms that can etch the flooring. It can break the wind or lessen the velocity of the impact.
Minimal Upkeep: Having a concrete wall means more time for your family and friends. You don’t have to spend too much time scrubbing your walls or doing heavy lifting. You can hose down your wall after a heavy rain to remove any dirt or stains. Maybe once or twice a year, you can do deep cleaning.
Energy-saving: Concrete has thermal mass that helps regulate indoor temperatures. Since it blocks off the sun’s heat, your home can remain cooler in summer. Meanwhile, it acts as a protective layer against cold weather and keeps your home warmer in winter.

Local Considerations When Building A Cinder Block Wall

Building Code of Albuquerque: Before construction, you should familiarize yourself with the city’s ordinances. It has specific regulations with regard to setbacks, height, and foundation of the proposed wall.
Soil Situations: The soil in Albuquerque is a mixture of heavy clay and caliche – a hardpan layer of soil that is formed through calcium carbonate deposits. Caliche poses a problem because it is terrible for drainage. What’s more, since the caliche is compacted and hard, when it moves, a big area shifts with it, causing cracks or ground instability. Meanwhile, heavy machinery is required to remove big blocks of it.
Exposure to Sun and Wind: The intense heat of the sun and strong winds can affect the durability of your concrete bulkhead. It is recommended to use high-quality mortar and reinforcing steel to overcome such elements.
Water Efficiency: Incorporating water-efficient features into your wall designs promotes eco-friendly solutions. You may incorporate features such as permeable pavers or drought-tolerant plants to conserve water resources.

Various Applications

Building a cinder block wall is not just for beautification. It has many uses and applications, including:

Retaining Walls: Due to Albuquerque’s unique topography, a concrete retaining wall is essential to stabilize soil, prevent erosion, and create a terraced garden.
Privacy and Security Fences: A concrete wall provides privacy and security for both residential and commercial properties. Its construction and height options make it a far more superior material to wood or wire fences.
Boundaries of Property: A bulkhead can serve as a durable and visible property marker. With it, you can clearly define your property lines from that of your neighbors.
Outdoor Living Spaces: You may create a backdrop for your outdoor furniture or make it a focal point for your landscape design.

Concrete Blocks for Bulkhead in Albuquerque

Here are some examples of where concrete bulkhead can be maximized.

North Valley: A concrete wall can complement the classic look of North Valley while offering security and privacy from outsiders.
Nob Hill: Famous for its upscale living and heritage style, well-designed concrete blocks may add incredible elements of a modern-day feel to your property.
South Valley: A mix of commercial and residential properties, South Valley benefits from the versatility of concrete block walls for both property types.
East Mountains: Concrete walls may also be appropriate for those seeking a rural lifestyle. It provides practical solutions to property boundaries and retaining slopes.

Plan Ahead Before the Actual Build

Don’t jump head-on into the DIY installation phase. To protect yourself from the headache and unnecessary expenses.

Identify the Purpose: Do you want to create a privacy fence? Or are you building walls to stabilize a slope section? If not that, is this cinder wall construction project to boost the curb appeal of your property?
Design Options: Envision what you want to build. Consider the height, length, and thickness. Colors and patterns should also be matched with your home’s design.
Selection of Material: Choose what type of block you will use. Solid blocks give sturdiness, while hollow blocks offer lighter and better insulation. An addition of mortar, reinforcing steel, and coping stones must be considered as well.