If you're dealing with cracks or broken concrete blocks, it's important to plan ahead and get an estimate of the number of blocks and mortar you'll need. Concrete blocks, also known as concrete masonry units, are commonly used for construction projects like foundations, support walls, fire walls, retaining walls, protective walls, and fences. Decorative concrete blocks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be custom ordered for specific designs. The cost of repairing a block wall can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.
Factors like the type of damage, the type of block used, and the need to match existing brick types and colors can all affect the overall cost. If you're pouring concrete rather than buying reinforced concrete blocks or sleepers, the cost of installation will be cheaper. If you recently had an old air conditioning unit removed from a concrete block wall, you'll need to repair the opening correctly to avoid damaging the foundation or other structural supports of your house. Water could be passing through a small crack that can be repaired cheaply, or the wall may have several cracks or crumbling areas that need repair.
FIXR provides cost guides, comparisons, and term reference sheets for hundreds of remodeling, installation and repair projects. To get an estimate of the total cost of the wall material, divide the total surface area by the surface area of a concrete block to determine the number of blocks needed for the wall. Then multiply this number by the cost of a concrete block for the final total. It's important to note that contractors usually analyze the type of damage before deciding on the right solution - certain repair solutions may cost more than others.
Inspectapedia has an excellent overview of the various types of problems and how they are solved, while Dummies offers a guide to making simple repairs yourself.
