How to Make Outdoor Cabinets Out of Block

Want to build durable and stylish outdoor cabinets that can withstand the elements? Using concrete blocks is a great way to create strong, long-lasting outdoor cabinets for your patio, garden or yard. With some basic DIY skills and the right materials, you can build customized outdoor cabinets out of block that will serve you for years to come.

Introduction to Building Outdoor Cabinets from Block

Outdoor cabinets made from concrete blocks offer many advantages over other cabinet materials:

Durability – Concrete blocks are incredibly tough and can withstand years of exposure to sun, rain, snow and temperature fluctuations. This makes them ideal for outdoor use.
Strength – Concrete block construction is sturdy and rigid. Block cabinets will not bend, warp or become misshapen over time.
Customization – Concrete blocks allow you to build cabinets in any shape or size you want. You can easily customize them to fit your space.
Cost-effective – Concrete blocks are an affordable DIY building material. Building your own outdoor cabinets saves money over buying pre-made options.
Design options – Concrete blocks come in various colors and finishes, allowing you to match your outdoor decor. A stucco finish can give a smooth, uniform look.
Ease of installation – Building outdoor cabinets from concrete blocks uses basic construction techniques like stacking, mortaring and surface bonding. No advanced woodworking skills are required.

With proper planning and preparation, you can create durable concrete block cabinets for your patio, porch, garden or yard. This article provides complete, step-by-step instructions for the DIY construction process. Let’s get started!

Follow these key steps to build sturdy, weather-resistant outdoor cabinets from concrete blocks:

Choose a Location

Pick a level spot on your patio, deck or yard for installing your outdoor cabinet. Consider sun exposure, proximity to your home, and any landscaping or drainage issues.
Make sure your cabinet will not block any walkways, doors or windows. Check that you have adequate space to open the cabinet doors fully once built.

Decide on a Design

Determine the dimensions (width, height and depth) needed for your outdoor cabinet space. Standard concrete blocks are 8” x 8” x 16”.
Draw up plans for your cabinet shape and layout. Sketch front, side and top views. Mark openings for doors and shelves.
Decide on any design elements like a countertop, drawers, closure panels, trim or cornices. This will influence the total block quantity needed.
Choose a concrete block style and finish that matches your existing outdoor decor.

Purchase Materials and Tools

You will need:

Concrete blocks – Calculate the total number of blocks required based on your cabinet dimensions. Add 10% extra.
Mortar or masonry adhesive – For bonding the blocks together.
Concrete mix – To fill block cores and make surface level.
Bonding agent – For joining surfaces like countertops or stucco finish.
Paint, stain or sealer – For finishing the outer cabinet surfaces if desired.
Tools – Trowel, level, drill, mixer paddle, wood saw, hammer, tape measure.
Hardware – Screws, nails, brackets, drawer slides, hinges and pulls.

Prepare the Installation Site

Mark the position of the cabinet on the installation surface with chalk or tape.
Make sure the base surface is flat, level, and square. This provides a stable foundation.
Cut and lay a gravel base if installing directly onto soil. This improves drainage.
Install edging blocks around the perimeter if needed to delineate cabinet footprint.

Lay the First Course of Blocks

Set the corner blocks in place first. Use a level to ensure they are plumb.
Apply mortar to the contact surfaces using a trowel. This secures the first course.
Lay blocks lengthwise in the opening between corners. Leave small gaps for grout.
Use string lines across front and side to keep courses straight.
Fill block cores with concrete as you go to add stability.

Stack Remaining Block Courses

Apply mortar to the top surface of each lower block.
Stack the next course of blocks, offsetting vertical seams.
Check level and plumb frequently to avoid shifting.
Fill block cores with concrete every few layers for reinforcement.
Allow mortar to fully cure before stacking further courses.

Install Cabinet Floor

Once base blocks are set, install cement backerboard using mortar and screws.
Apply waterproofing membrane over top subfloor surface.
Pour thin concrete floor layer. Slope slightly for drainage if outdoors.
For indoor cabinets, install plywood flooring over top blocks.

Add Interior Cabinet Features

Mark and cut out openings for doors, shelves, and drawers as per your plans.
Install mounting boards vertically on inside to attach shelves and hardware.
Add fixed shelves at desired heights. Use shelf pins and brackets to make adjustable.
Build drawer boxes to fit openings. Install drawer slides on mounting boards.
Attach hinges and handles/pulls for doors and drawers.

Complete Exterior Cabinet

Install closure panels and trim pieces on the sides, back, top. Use bonding agent to adhere.
Apply desired surface finish like stucco, paint, stain or sealer over outside of cabinet.
Consider adding exterior lighting, electrical outlets or plumbing as needed.
Caulk around edges and along joints. Let assemble fully cure before using.

And that’s it – you now have a custom concrete block cabinet perfect for outdoor use! With the right preparations and techniques, you can build durable, weather-resistant outdoor cabinets tailored to your space from standard masonry materials. Get creative with paint colors, finishes and design details. Maintaining your concrete block cabinet is easy – just routinely check for any cracks or damage and make repairs as needed. Enjoy your handbuilt outdoor storage and workspace for years to come!

Frequently Asked Questions About Building Outdoor Cabinets from Block

Building your own outdoor cabinets from concrete block is a very doable DIY project. But many first-timers have some common questions about the process. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

How difficult is it build outdoor cabinets from concrete blocks?

The construction process is relatively straightforward, even for someone with minimal DIY experience. As long as you follow the basic masonry techniques for stacking, mortaring and filling blocks, have the right tools, and take precautions for safety and proper alignment, building block cabinets is not a complex job. The most important things are careful planning, patience, and attention to detail.

What tools do I need to build outdoor block cabinets?

The required tools are common for basic masonry work or general home projects:

Trowel for mortar application
Level and tape measure to check alignment
Drill for making any openings and attaching hardware
Mixing paddle and container for mortar and concrete
Mason’s string and line blocks to keep courses straight
Hammer for adjusting blocks if needed
Wood saw for cutting shelving or trim materials
Safety equipment like gloves and eye protection

How long does the concrete block construction process take?

The time required depends on the cabinet size and complexity of your design. As a general estimate, plan on the assembly taking 2-3 full workdays for a medium-sized cabinet with a basic box design. Working in small sections and allowing mortar to fully cure before stacking further courses also affects timeline. Building the cabinet base takes the most time. Adding interior shelving and exterior finish details goes quicker.

What is the strongest outdoor cabinet material?

Solid concrete block is one of the strongest and most durable options for outdoor cabinet construction. The dense concrete composition can withstand years of exposure to sun, rain, snow and temperature swings. Other robust outdoor cabinet materials include stone, stucco, synthetic wood composites, and metals like aluminum or stainless steel. Avoid natural wood which can rot and deteriorate quickly outside.

What should I use to bond concrete blocks together?

Type S Masonry cement is commonly used for concrete block projects. Pre-mixed mortar is another option that offers greater consistency and convenience. For a stronger bond and easier application, you can also use masonry or landscape construction adhesive placed between block layers. Follow the specific product instructions. Avoid standard adhesives and multi-purpose glues which are not suitable for heavy masonry materials.

How do I get a smooth finish on concrete block cabinets?

Start with precision when stacking the blocks to minimize uneven joints as much as possible. Use concrete mix to fill any gaps in the block cores or surfaces. Apply a final exterior finish over the blocks such as stucco, render, concrete resurfacer or mortar skim coat to create an even, uniform appearance. Sand lightly between coats when building up finish layers. Be sure to use bonding agent so the finish adheres properly to the concrete blocks.

Can I paint or stain concrete block cabinets?

Yes, concrete blocks can be painted, stained, or sealed to achieve the desired finish color and texture. First etch the blocks with an acidic masonry cleaner to roughen the surface and improve paint adhesion. Apply an alkali-resistant primer formulated specifically for masonry surfaces. Then topcoat with exterior-grade latex paint, solid stain, or cementitious waterproofing sealer in your chosen color and sheen.

Final Thoughts

Building your own outdoor cabinets out of concrete block is a simple weekend project that yields furniture-grade results. With proper planning and construction techniques, you can create durable, customizable storage perfect for your patio, porch, garden or yard. Just follow the step-by-step process for assembling the block structure, adding cabinet features like shelves and drawers, and applying the desired outer finish. Maintain your handcrafted block cabinets by sealing surfaces annually, checking for any cracks or damage, and making repairs as needed. Get ready to impress guests with your crafty outdoor cabinetry skills!