How to build a breeze block planter wall

Introduction

Have you ever gazed at a particularly beautiful garden and been in awe of not only the flowers but also the well-structured walls and planters that frame them? The art of transforming an otherwise plain landscape into a garden sanctuary is often down to creating eye-catching features such as planter walls. One popular material for these planters is breeze blocks, known for their durability, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetic appeal. Thus, our post today will focus on the topic: ‘How to build a breeze block planter wall’.

Breeze block planter walls are gaining popularity among gardening enthusiasts and home designers alike, thanks to their versatility and functionality. Whether you’re looking to create a vertical garden due to space constraints or you wish to introduce a unique design element to your green space, a breeze block planter wall can be a perfect solution. It can be used as a decorative feature, creating striking patterns while serving as a practical addition to your garden by housing various types of plants.

Not only do these walls help create an organized and structured look in your garden, but they also serve practical purposes such as preventing soil erosion or acting as windbreakers. The hollow design of breeze blocks makes them an excellent choice for creating planters since they provide sufficient room for the roots to grow and thrive.

While the idea of building a breeze block planter wall might seem overwhelming, especially if you are new to DIY tasks or gardening projects, it’s simpler than you might think. In fact, with careful planning, some basic tools, and a little hard work, you can construct your own breeze block planter wall over a weekend. And don’t worry; you don’t have to be an expert builder or gardener – this guide will take you through each step of the process.

In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive step-by-step guide on ‘How to build a breeze block planter wall’. We’ll cover everything from the tools and materials you’ll need, to the tips and tricks that will make the process smoother. So, whether you’re an experienced DIYer or a total novice, this guide is designed to help you successfully create a beautiful and functional breeze block planter wall.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into how you can transform your garden with this stylish and practical feature.

Materials Needed

Before you set out on your mission to build a breeze block planter wall, it is important to gather all the necessary materials. This will make the process smoother and more efficient, and ensure you are not caught off guard part way through. Here is a list of everything you need to know about the materials needed for building a breeze block planter wall.

To start with, you will obviously require breeze blocks. Also known as cinder blocks or concrete masonry units (CMUs), these are essentially large rectangular bricks commonly used in construction. The number of blocks required will vary depending on the size of the wall you intend to build. So, make sure you have determined the dimensions of your planter wall before purchasing your blocks.

Next, you will need a concrete adhesive or mortar mix for securing the blocks together. This binding material is essential for creating a sturdy and durable structure. Some people prefer using adhesive because it’s easier to work with than mortar, but both can get the job done effectively.

Another crucial component when learning how to build a breeze block planter wall is gravel. It is used to fill the bottom of your planter wall for drainage purposes and should be enough to cover about 5 inches at the base.

In addition to gravel, you’ll need soil and plants. The type of soil that you choose should be nutrient-rich and well-draining, as this will provide the necessary support for plant growth. As for plants, choose varieties that are suitable for your climate and that will fit comfortably within your breeze block compartments.

To construct your breeze block planter wall, you’ll also require some tools. These include a shovel for digging the foundation, a trowel for applying the adhesive or mortar, and a level to ensure your blocks are placed evenly. A rubber mallet may also come in handy for adjusting the position of the blocks.

Finally, for safety purposes during construction, you should also have a pair of safety glasses and work gloves. Remember, safety first!

To recap, building a breeze block planter wall requires breeze blocks, concrete adhesive or mortar mix, gravel, soil, plants, and appropriate tools like a shovel, trowel, level and rubber mallet. Always remember to use protective equipment like safety glasses and work gloves when handling these materials.

Choosing the Right Breeze Blocks

One of the first steps in learning how to build a breeze block planter wall is choosing the right breeze blocks. The quality, type, and size of the breeze blocks that you choose will significantly influence the durability, aesthetics, and overall success of your project. So, it’s crucial to make an informed decision when selecting your breeze blocks.

Breeze blocks come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. The most common types are made from concrete or cinder, both known for their strength and durability. Concrete breeze blocks are generally more robust and weather-resistant than cinder blocks, making them an excellent choice for outdoor applications like planter walls. On the other hand, cinder blocks are lighter and easier to handle, which might be useful if you’re doing the construction yourself.

After deciding on the material type, consider the size of your breeze blocks. The standard size is 8x8x16 inches, but there are also half-sizes available if you need more flexibility in your design. The chosen size should align with your planter wall’s planned dimensions to ensure a good fit and prevent unnecessary cutting of the blocks.

Aesthetics also play a big role in choosing the right breeze blocks. They come in a range of colors from natural gray to more vibrant hues. Some people prefer the natural look of concrete or cinder, while others want their planter wall to be a standout feature in their garden with brightly colored breeze blocks.

The style of breeze blocks is another consideration. Traditional breeze blocks have a hollow core design, which can be filled with concrete for added strength. However, more decorative styles are available with intricate designs that allow plants to grow through them for added aesthetic appeal.

Lastly, consider the source of your breeze blocks; it’s always best to purchase from reputable suppliers who can guarantee quality products. Ensure the blocks are in good condition and free from cracks or damage, which could affect their strength and longevity.

Learning how to build a breeze block planter wall starts with choosing the right breeze blocks, as it influences the project’s success. By considering material type, size, color, style, and quality, you can ensure your planter wall will be sturdy, durable, and a beautiful addition to your outdoor space.

Planning Your Planter Wall

If you’re looking for a unique and cost-effective way to add some aesthetic appeal to your garden, learning how to build a breeze block planter wall is a great solution. Not only will it serve as an eye-catching focal point, but it also provides a functional space for growing your favorite plants. However, as with any DIY project, the key to success lies in detailed and careful planning.

The first step in planning your planter wall is deciding on its location. The site should be flat and stable, preferably in an area that receives a good amount of sunlight each day if you are planning on growing sun-loving plants. You should also consider the proximity to a water source for easy irrigation.

Next, it’s important to determine the size of your planter wall. This will depend on the amount of space available and the number of plants you want to grow. Remember that breeze blocks are usually about 18 inches long, 8 inches high, and 8 inches deep (though sizes can vary), so take this into account when calculating how many blocks you’ll need.

Another critical factor to consider before building your breeze block planter wall is the type of plants you want to grow. Different plants have different soil, light, and water requirements, so be sure to choose plants that are suited for your chosen location. Additionally, consider the root size of your chosen plants and make sure they will fit comfortably in the cavities of the breeze blocks.

After deciding on these key factors, you can start designing the layout of your planter wall. This could be a simple straight line or a more complex geometric design depending on your preference. Keep in mind that while breeze blocks are relatively easy to work with due to their uniform shape and size, building a curved or intricate design might require more advanced masonry skills.

Lastly, before you start building, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. This includes not only the breeze blocks themselves but also mortar to secure them, a trowel to apply the mortar, a level to ensure your wall is straight, and of course, your chosen plants and appropriate soil.

With careful planning, building a breeze block planter wall can be a rewarding DIY project that adds beauty and functionality to your garden.

Preparing the Site

If you’re considering adding an element of architectural interest to your garden, learning how to build a breeze block planter wall is an excellent idea. Not only will it serve a practical purpose, but it can also significantly enhance the aesthetics of your outdoor space. However, before you immerse yourself in constructing your planter wall, the first step to consider is the preparation of the site and ensuring it’s suitable for the build.

Firstly, when choosing a location for your breeze block planter wall, consider factors such as sunlight exposure, proximity to other structures and drainage. You’ll want to ensure that your plants will have the necessary sunlight for growth and that the wall won’t interfere with any existing structures or utilities. The site should be within reach of a water source for easy plant maintenance, yet also have good drainage so as not to waterlog the plants.

Once you’ve picked an ideal location, clear the site of any debris or vegetation that could hinder construction or damage your new wall over time. Stumps, large rocks or roots should be removed and disposed of properly. If there are protruding tree roots that can’t be taken out without causing harm to the tree, consider relocating your wall.

Next, level off the site. For this task, you might find it useful to use a builder’s level or laser level. A well-levelled site ensures that your blocks lay evenly and your wall stands straight. This is critical in how to build a breeze block planter wall because an unlevel base could lead to structural issues in the future.

Lastly, map out your project. Use chalk or spray paint to mark out where your planter wall will sit on the ground. This will help you visualize how much space the completed wall will occupy and ensure it’s proportionate with respect to other elements in your garden. During this step, also consider access points for maintenance, watering and other tasks.

In conclusion, preparing the site properly is not a step to be overlooked in the process of building a breeze block planter wall. It requires careful planning, meticulous execution and an eye for detail. By following these steps, you’ll lay a solid foundation for your construction project — literally and figuratively.

Laying the First Layer of Breeze Blocks

After preparing your site and completing the foundation stage, it’s time to move onto the next part of our guide on ‘How to build a breeze block planter wall.’ This step involves laying the first layer of breeze blocks. This process may sound daunting, but with patience and a little effort, you will be able to do it.

Before you start, make sure all your breeze blocks are of the same height. If they are not, you will need to adjust them by either cutting or shimming them. Uniformity in height is crucial for maintaining the balance and aesthetics of your planter wall.

Start by applying a one-inch thick layer of mortar onto the foundation where you will lay your first block. Make sure that this layer extends slightly beyond the dimensions of the block. This excess mortar will squeeze out when you place the breeze block on it and can be scraped off using a trowel.

Next, carefully lower your first breeze block onto this mortar bed. To ensure correct alignment, use your spirit level frequently as you go along. Adjust the position of the block by tapping gently on it using a rubber mallet until it is perfectly positioned.

Once you’re satisfied with its alignment, move on to laying the next block. Like before, apply mortar onto the foundation before placing the second breeze block. However, this time, you’ll also need to apply mortar on one side of your second breeze block – this is where it will adhere to the first block.

Continue this process until you have laid all blocks for your first layer. Be sure to regularly check if each block is level and aligned properly with the other blocks. It’s important to use your spirit level after placing each new piece; this ensures that your planter wall maintains its horizontal and vertical alignment.

Breeze blocks are an affordable and versatile option for building a planter wall. With their large size, they can create a substantial structure quickly. Besides, their hollow cores provide excellent drainage, making them perfect for your gardening needs. However, like any DIY project, learning how to build a breeze block planter wall requires some effort to ensure the end product is sturdy and visually appealing.

Remember, the beginning might seem challenging but as you lay block after block, you’ll find it progressively easier and more rewarding. So, take your time, be patient and you’ll have a beautiful breeze block planter wall in no time!

Building Additional Layers

After the foundation of your breeze block planter wall is laid, building additional layers becomes the subsequent step in the process. This section will guide you through the process of how to build a breeze block planter wall’s additional layers. Attention to detail is crucial here as each layer needs to be even and accurate for the design to maintain its structural integrity.

Start by applying a layer of mortar on top of your first course or row of breeze blocks. The mortar should be around 1 cm thick and applied evenly across the whole surface. Once that is complete, it’s time to start laying your next course. Always remember to stagger the joints; this means the blocks of one row should not directly line up with the blocks of the row beneath it. Staggering joints provide extra strength and stability and offer a more professional finish.

Next, place your breeze block on top of the mortar bed and gently press down until it reaches the desired height, usually level with a string guide if one is being used. Swipe off any excess mortar that squeezes out from under the block with your trowel. This process should continue until all rows are completed, maintaining consistency with block placement and mortar thickness.

A key factor to consider while building additional layers for your breeze block planter wall is ensuring each row remains level. Use a spirit level after every couple of blocks laid to check you’re maintaining an even layer. This periodic checking aids in preventing any misalignment or tilting issues which might arise later on.

Once all blocks are placed, fill all vertical joints (spaces between each block) with mortar. A neat tip here is to use a pointing tool or narrow trowel for this task; it offers greater accuracy and control over where the mortar goes, ensuring no spaces are left unfilled.

You must also keep in mind that during the construction of the planter wall, special blocks may be used to integrate planters at different heights. They should be installed as per the design requirements during the process of building additional layers.

In conclusion, building additional layers to your breeze block planter wall is a meticulous task but with patience and precision, you should be able to achieve a sturdy and attractive structure. Stay consistent with your measurements and checks, and take your time. The result will be a beautiful, functional addition to your outdoor space.

Finishing Touches

Now that you’ve successfully built your breeze block planter wall, it’s time to add the finishing touches. These final steps are what makes your project look professional and well-constructed. They also give your beautiful new planter wall a long-lasting durability.

The first thing you want to focus on is sealing your breeze blocks. Sealing increases the lifespan of your blocks by protecting them from elements like wind, rain, and even UV light. To do this, apply a penetrating sealer using a paintbrush or roller, ensuring that all surfaces are covered. Depending on the sealer’s instructions, you may need to apply more than one coat, so make sure to read the instructions carefully.

After you’ve sealed your breeze blocks, it’s time to fill them with soil and plants. Make sure to choose the right type of soil for your plants; some may require a more acidic soil while others might thrive in soil that drains well. Consider using compost as an addition to provide essential nutrients for your plants.

When choosing plants, think about their size at maturity and how much space they will need. Remember that plant roots will be confined within the breeze block holes, so don’t choose plants that need a lot of root space. Consider using a variety of trailing plants that can cascade over the edges of the blocks for an added aesthetic touch.

You can also paint or stain your breeze blocks to match the color scheme of your garden or home exterior. Just remember to use outdoor paint or stain designed for masonry use, and apply a clear sealant afterward to protect the color from weathering.

Finally, add some decorative elements if you wish. This could be something as simple as placing some pretty stones or pebbles on top of the soil in each block hole or adding solar lights for a charming night glow.

Learning how to build a breeze block planter wall is a fun and rewarding project. It not only adds a unique design feature to your garden but also provides you with extra planting space. The key to a successful end result lies in the final details, so take your time with the finishing touches – they will make all the difference.

So there you have it! You now know how to build a breeze block planter wall from start to finish. We hope that this guide has been helpful and that your new planter wall brings you joy for many years to come.

Maintaining Your Breeze Block Planter Wall

After you’ve learned ‘How to build a breeze block planter wall’, the next step is to know how to maintain it. A properly maintained breeze block planter wall can enhance the aesthetics of your garden and preserve its functionality for years. It can be an exciting addition to your outdoor space, but like other structures, it also needs regular maintenance.

Firstly, keep an eye out for any signs of damage or cracks in the breeze blocks. Exposure to elements such as water, changing temperatures and even the weight of the soil and plants can sometimes cause cracks. If you spot any damage, it’s essential to repair it immediately. Use a suitable outdoor filler or concrete patch product, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Always ensure that the patches are fully dried before you proceed with any painting or planting.

A critical factor in maintaining your breeze block planter wall is ensuring proper drainage. The last thing you want is waterlogged soil which can harm your plants and erode the concrete over time. A clever way to ensure good drainage is by adding a layer of gravel before filling in the soil. This way, excess water can escape easily and won’t lead to dampness in your breeze blocks.

When we talk about maintenance, it’s not just about the structure, but also about the plants that adorn your planter wall. Regularly trim overgrown plants and remove dead leaves or flowers. If you notice a plant isn’t thriving well in its current spot, don’t hesitate to move it to a more suitable location or replace it with a hardier species.

Cleaning is another crucial aspect of maintenance. While some natural weathering can add character to your breeze block planter wall, excessive dirt or algae growth can detract from its appearance. Use a mild detergent and a soft brush to scrub away any grime. Ensure you rinse it thoroughly afterward, to avoid leaving any soapy residues behind.

Maintaining your breeze block planter wall can be a therapeutic activity. It’s an excellent opportunity to spend some time outdoors, engage with nature, and take pride in the beauty you’ve created. With regular upkeep, your breeze block planter wall will not only stand the test of time but also remain a picturesque feature in your garden for years to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, learning ‘how to build a breeze block planter wall’ is an engaging and rewarding DIY project that can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your garden. It not only allows you to exercise your creativity but also offers an opportunity to acquire new skills and improve your dexterity. Moreover, breeze blocks are durable, affordable, and versatile, making them suitable for various construction projects.

The process of building such a wall involves several steps, each of which requires careful execution. From preparing the foundation to laying the breeze blocks, each stage demands precision and attention to detail. Although this task might seem challenging at first, it becomes easier with practice and patience.

When choosing the location for your planter wall, make sure it has adequate sunlight and is close enough to a water source. The size of the wall depends on the space available and the number of plants you wish to grow. Be sure to consider drainage as well; it is crucial for plant health.

Packing the blocks with potting soil and planting your chosen flora can be an enjoyable experience. Be sure to choose plants that will thrive in your local climate, soil conditions, and light levels. Regular watering and maintenance will ensure a lush, thriving planter wall.

In addition to enhancing your garden’s beauty, a breeze block planter wall can provide privacy and serve as a windbreak. It’s also a great way to reuse old breeze blocks if you happen to have some lying around or find them at a salvage yard.

Building a breeze block planter wall is undoubtedly a tangible way of leaving your mark on your surroundings. It allows you to create something unique and personal while adding value to your property. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction gained from completing a DIY project!

So why not give it a try? You may discover a new passion for gardening and DIY projects. And remember, the process is just as important as the result. Enjoy every step of the journey in ‘how to build a breeze block planter wall’ and take pride in your accomplishment. Happy building!