Building durable and long-lasting cabinets for your outdoor kitchen using cement blocks is an excellent DIY project for any homeowner. With some basic masonry skills and the right materials, you can create custom cabinetry that will withstand the elements for years to come. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to build cabinets for an outdoor kitchen out of cement blocks.
Introduction
Cement block cabinets are a great choice for outdoor kitchens because they are extremely sturdy, weather-resistant, and have a natural rustic aesthetic. Cement blocks are inexpensive, readily available at home improvement stores, and relatively simple to work with.
With basic masonry techniques like stacking, mortaring, and surface bonding, you can construct cabinet frames, doors, shelves, and counters from concrete blocks in shapes and sizes perfect for your space. The cement blocks protect contents from weather and pests. And their heft means they won’t blow over in windy conditions.
Benefits of Cement Block Cabinets
- Durability – Cement blocks are incredibly durable against outdoor elements like rain, heat, cold, and humidity. They won’t warp or crack like wood cabinets.
- Pest resistance – Concrete blocks are impenetrable to pests like termites and ants. Food and contents will be protected.
- Cost effective – Concrete blocks are an budget-friendly material for DIY builds. Much less expensive than wood, metal, or stone.
- Customizable – Cement blocks can be stacked in any shape or size to suit your needs. Add doors, shelves, and more.
- Low maintenance – Concrete block cabinets are essentially weatherproof and don’t need regular sealing, staining, or repainting.
- Rustic aesthetic – The natural gray color and unfinished look of cement blocks fits well in outdoor living spaces.
Planning Your Cement Block Cabinets
Before starting your build, take time to plan your cabinet layout. Here are some tips:
- Decide on dimensions – measure your outdoor kitchen space and determine what size cabinets you need. Standard cement blocks are 8 x 8 x 16 inches.
- Make a sketch – draw out your cabinet frames, doors, shelves, and countertops to visualize the design.
- Account for overhang – cabinet doors will need room to open fully without hitting walls.
- Add reinforcement – plan for rebar, wood, or metal inside the blocks for stability.
- Consider finishes – you can add stain, paint, tile, or stone veneer as finishes to the cement.
How to Build the Cabinet Frames
Constructing the cabinet frames is the first step. Here’s how:
Gather Materials
- Cement blocks
- Mortar mix or concrete adhesive
- Masonry trowel for spreading mortar
- Level and tape measure
- Mitt for handling blocks
Construct the Frame
- Lay down mortar and place first row of blocks. Use a level to ensure they are even.
- Stack second row on top, offsetting blocks for stability. Mortar each layer together.
- Build up frames to desired height and width according to your plan.
- For corners and edges, alternate vertical blocks with sideways blocks.
- Let mortar fully cure for at least 24-48 hours before continuing.
Add Reinforcements
- Cut pieces of rebar or wood to fit inside frame cubbies.
- Hammer in reinforcements. Fill cubbies with concrete for added strength.
- You can also use metal brackets on inside and outside corners.
- Let concrete cure fully before moving the frame.
Adding Cabinet Doors
Once your solid cabinet frames are complete, you can add doors. Here are two options:
Mounted Doors
For a classic cabinet look, mount full doors using hinges:
- Cut wood boards to size for your doors. Use weather-resistant cedar or redwood.
- Attach hinges designed for masonry to cement blocks and wood doors.
- Add latch hardware so doors can close securely.
Lean-To Doors
For a more rustic and open style door, you can create lean-to doors:
- Cut wood boards slightly wider than the cabinet opening.
- At top of opening, install wood trim pieces or L brackets.
- Lean wood boards against the trim to create a slanted open shelf.
Adding Shelves
Shelves inside the cabinets provide storage space. Here are tips for installing:
- Measure inside dimensions where you want shelves. Cut boards to size.
- Set cinder blocks at desired shelf height. Level if needed.
- Place wood boards across cinder blocks to create shelves.
- For adjustable shelves, use specialty shelf brackets designed for concrete walls.
- Stain or seal wood shelves to protect from moisture and pests.
Creating Countertops
Finish your cabinets with countertops made from cement blocks:
- Arrange blocks side by side to create countertop shape needed.
- Use concrete adhesive between blocks. Use wood blocks inside for support.
- Cut cement boards or plywood to fit for a smooth surface. Adhere with construction adhesive.
- Apply tile, stone veneer, concrete skim coat, or other finishes to create the countertop.
- Seal the countertop with a waterproof sealant once finished.
Tips for Success
Follow these tips to ensure your cement block cabinets come out looking great:
- Choose cement blocks without holes or cracks. Solid blocks are best.
- Wear gloves and goggles when handling concrete. The lime can burn exposed skin.
- Always follow safety precautions when using power tools or cutting materials.
- Apply mortar generously between blocks. This will create the strongest bond.
- Let mortar and concrete fully cure as directed before moving or disturbing cabinets.
- Use paint or sealer to finish the cabinets and protect from UV damage.
Conclusion
With the right planning and masonry techniques, you can create stunning and ultra-durable cabinets for your outdoor kitchen using basic cement blocks. The benefits of strength, weather-resistance, pest protection and cost make concrete block cabinets a smart choice for any homeowner. Just be sure to seal and protect your finished cabinets, and they will last for many years in your outdoor living space.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight can cement block cabinets hold?
Cement blocks can typically support thousands of pounds of weight when stacked properly using mortar. Reinforced with rebar and wood, cabinets can hold plenty of cookware, servingware, appliances, and other contents.
What tools do I need to build concrete block cabinets?
Basic masonry tools like a trowel, mitt, level, tape measure, mixer for mortar, and saw for cutting blocks or wood. You may also need a drill, screw gun, and clamps. Safety gear like gloves and goggles are essential.
What is the best mortar to use?
Type S or Type N mortar mixes work well for most above-grade projects like cabinets. Make sure to prepare and apply mortar according to instructions for optimal strength.
Should I finish or seal the cement blocks?
It’s recommended to apply some type of sealer or finish to protect concrete block cabinets from moisture damage, stains, and UV deterioration over time. Paint, stained concrete sealer, or masonry waterproofer are good options.
Can I change the color of the blocks?
Yes, concrete blocks can be painted or stained to achieve different colors. Stained concrete sealers and masonry paints are products specifically designed for coloring cement blocks.