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DIY Outdoor Storage

Add some storage to your backyard or patio with this easy Cinder Block Shelf. This simple DIY outdoor storage is perfect near the pool or the grill and especially great for when you're entertaining.
Servings 1 Outdoor Cinder Block Shelf
Author Ang Paris

Equipment

  • Wagner Flexio 3000
  • medium spray shelter
  • orbital sander
  • Safety Glasses
  • Dust Masks

Ingredients

  • 4 8x8x16 cinder blocks
  • 2 8x8x8 “half” cinder blocks
  • 2 x8x8 Douglas Fir or similar board
  • exterior latex paint

Instructions

  • Sand the 2x8x8 so it is smooth.
  • Cut the 2x8x8 in half so that you have (2) pieces 4’ in length.
  • Sand the ends of the 4' pieces as needed.
  • Set up the spray shelter.
  • Set up the Flexio 3000 according to the enclosed instructions. For exterior paint you will want to set it to MAX. Turn the nozzle so that it will spray horizontally.
  • Place the boards across two sawhorses and spray in a horizontal pattern holding the sprayer 6-8 inches from the surface.
  • Once the paint dries, turn the boards. Repeat until all the sides are painted. 
  • Place two of the tall cinder blocks for the base, and then set one of the shelves on top, lining up the corners.
  • Next, place the two other tall cinder blocks on top of that and add the second board.
  • Finally, top with the two small cinder blocks to hold it in place.

Notes

For the best results, I highly suggest thoroughly reading through the instructions on how to assemble and use the sprayer. Likewise, be sure to do a test spray and practice with the included spray poster.

Paint Colors

used Behr “Diva
Glam” for the shelves and “Caicos Turquoise” for the cinder blocks. Bothdd some paints are semi-gloss.

Tips for using the Flexio 3000

The Fleixo 3000 is different from the 4000 that I’ve used previously, but it was just as simple to use.
  • First, choose a good quality exterior paint. I used Behr Premium Plus Ultra.
  • Set the material flow, which controls the amount that will be sprayed. Exterior latex paint is quite thick so you want it on the highest
    setting.
  • Change the nozzle to match the direction you’re going to paint, either horizontal or vertical.
  • Add paint to the cup and tighten the nozzle assembly.
  • Set up the medium spray shelter and move the blocks into it.
  • Hold the sprayer about 6-8 inches from the surface and move the sprayer in smooth even passes across your surface.
  • Allow the paint to dry completely before adding another coat or touching up any spots.