How to Build a Cinderblock Fence

[Melissa Burnell]

This is a clever, modern DIY patio fence made with painted cinderblocks and stained 4×4 wood posts. It’s a great low-cost, no-dig fencing solution for renters or anyone who wants a stylish barrier without permanent installation.

One of our fans sent us this photo and asked, How do I make it? So here are the very simple plans…

Image Credit: Gloria Holt, Pinterest

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🛠️ How to Build This Cinderblock Fence

🔩 Materials Needed:

• 12 cinderblocks (6 per side, depending on fence length — must have two vertical holes)
• 6 pressure-treated 4×4 posts (length depends on fence span – estimate 6–8 ft)
• Exterior wood stain or paint (for 4x4s)
• Concrete/cinderblock paint (optional: black for contrast)
• Heavy-duty construction adhesive rated for masonry (e.g., Loctite PL Premium, Gorilla Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive, or Quikrete Advanced Polymer Construction Adhesive)
• Sandpaper or orbital sander
• Level
• Caulk gun

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🧱 Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Cinderblocks

• Clean all cinderblocks with a brush and water. Let dry.
• Paint them (if desired) using concrete or masonry paint.
• Let fully dry before assembly.

Step 2: Stain or Paint 4×4 Posts

• Sand wood for a smooth finish.
• Apply exterior wood stain or paint. Let dry completely.

Step 3: Stack the Cinderblocks

• Stack two cinderblocks vertically per column, holes facing horizontally (to slide the wood through).
• Dry-fit your layout to ensure level spacing and alignment.

Step 4: Apply Adhesive for Stability

• Lift the top cinderblock of each column.
• Apply a generous amount of cinderblock adhesive between the two blocks for each stack.
• Press and hold firmly for a few seconds.
• Optional: add adhesive inside the holes to help grip the wood if you don’t plan to remove it.

Step 5: Insert the Wood Beams

• Slide each 4×4 post through the aligned holes of the block columns.
• You may need to tilt the blocks slightly or wiggle the wood gently.
• Use a level to make sure the wood is straight and even.

Step 6: Final Touches

• Apply extra adhesive inside the block holes or around wood contact points if needed for added stability.
• Optional: add concrete blocks to the inside corners or under legs if making this freestanding.

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🧼 Maintenance Tip:

Reapply stain or sealant to the wood annually if exposed to the elements.

Here’s an approximate cost breakdown to build a patio fence like the one in the image, based on current 2024 U.S. average prices at Home Depot or Lowe’s:

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🧱 Cinderblocks (12 total)

• Type: Standard 8″x8″x16″ hollow blocks
• Cost per block: ~$2.50
• Total: $30

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🪵 4×4 Pressure-Treated Lumber (6 total)

• Size: 4x4x8 ft
• Cost per post: ~$12–$15 (let’s average at $13.50)
• Total: $81

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🎨 Paint or Stain

• Exterior wood stain (1 qt – covers ~75 sq ft): ~$12
• Concrete/masonry paint (for cinderblocks): ~$18
• Total: $30

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🧴 Construction Adhesive (for masonry)

• Heavy-duty Loctite PL Premium / Gorilla Construction Adhesive
• Cost per tube (10 oz): ~$6
• You’ll need ~2–3 tubes: $18

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🧰 Optional Supplies

• Sandpaper / foam brush / rags / caulk gun if not already owned
• Add ~$10–$15 for miscellaneous

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💵 Estimated Total Cost:

Item	Cost
Cinderblocks	$30
4×4 Posts	$81
Stain + Paint	$30
Adhesive	$18
Misc. Supplies (optional)	$10–15
Estimated Total	$159–$174

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This fence is not only budget-friendly, but also renter-friendly and movable—no digging or cement required.

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