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Sanctuary School & Studio
Welcome to our School & Studio! Where you can Learn "how It's Done" and pick out options via our studio below within the sub service you have selected to view:
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School: Knowledge on how the sub-service is done.
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Studio: Options on all materials/colors for selected sub-service.
Masonry
Wall Systems
What Are Pre-Finished Block Wall Systems?
- Pre-finished block wall systems offer a unique and efficient approach to constructing walls in Orange County. Unlike traditional CMU blocks or natural stone, these systems utilize pre-cast concrete blocks with a finished texture, eliminating the need for additional plastering or painting. Manufacturers like Belgard and Angelus offer a variety of styles and colors. These systems are particularly well-suited for fences, retaining walls, and other outdoor features. For homeowners in Irvine or Newport Beach seeking a durable and aesthetically pleasing wall solution, Sanctuary Design & Build can expertly install pre-finished block wall systems that enhance your landscape.
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School
Our official "How It's Done" section to help educate our clients to understand our industry leading installation process!​​
Course: A Guide to Prefinished Block Wall System Installation.
Process - Block wall installation
At Sanctuary Design & Build, a leading design-build firm in Orange County, we create beautiful and durable retaining and freestanding walls using prefinished block wall systems from leading manufacturers like Belgard and Angelus. Discover our step-by-step guide on how we bring your landscape design to life with expertly installed block walls. Unless otherwise stated in your contract, all installations pertaining to prefinished block wall systems are performed in the exact outlined method! From precise site preparation and base installation to accurate block placement and finishing, we ensure a structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing wall for your Orange County home. Our unique Sanctuary Sequence, a comprehensive site assessment and planning process, sets the stage for successful hardscaping projects throughout Orange County, including cities like Orange, Fullerton, and Yorba Linda.
Phase 1: Site Preparation and Base Installation for Block Walls in Orange County
This crucial first phase focuses on preparing the site and installing a stable base for your prefinished block wall system in your Orange County landscape. This preparation, a critical component of any hardscaping project, includes:
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Excavation and Grading: We excavate the area where the wall will be built, ensuring proper grading for drainage. This is essential for preventing water buildup behind the wall, especially in Orange County's varied terrain. This is a common practice for general contractors in Orange County during landscape construction.
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Base Material Installation: We install and compact a base layer of appropriate material, such as compacted soil or decomposed granite (DG), to create a stable foundation for the wall. This base provides stability and prevents settling. In cases where structural support is required, we will pour a concrete foundation according to engineering specifications. This is a crucial step for any home improvement project involving block walls.
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Compaction: We thoroughly compact the base material using a plate compactor to ensure a level and stable surface. Proper compaction is essential for the long-term stability of the wall. If a foundation is poured, this step will involve ensuring the concrete is properly cured.
Phase 2: Block Placement and Alignment for Prefinished Walls in Orange County
This phase involves the careful placement and alignment of the prefinished blocks to create a straight, level, and aesthetically pleasing wall in your Orange County home. This precise installation process includes:
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First Course Placement: We carefully place the first course of blocks on the prepared base, ensuring it is level and aligned. This is the foundation for the entire wall, so accuracy is crucial.
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Subsequent Course Placement: We continue placing subsequent courses of blocks, using levels and string lines to maintain proper alignment and ensure the wall is straight and plumb. We pay close attention to the manufacturer's instructions for the specific block system being used (e.g., Belgard, Angelus).
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Adhesive or Mortar Application (If Required): Depending on the specific block system, we may apply construction adhesive or mortar between the blocks for added stability.
Phase 3: Capping, Finishing, and Cleanup for Orange County Block Wall Systems
This final phase completes the block wall installation, adding the final finishing touches and cleaning the work area for a beautiful and structurally sound result in your Orange County landscape. This detailed finishing process, typical of high-quality hardscaping services, includes:
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Joint Filling (If Necessary): If mortar was used, we tool the joints to create a neat and professional appearance.
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Cleanup: We thoroughly clean the work area, removing any debris, excess materials, or tools, leaving your newly constructed block wall and surrounding area clean and ready to enjoy. This clean up is standard with any general remodeling project we complete.
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Cap Installation: We install capstones or other finishing elements on top of the wall to create a finished look and protect the wall from water intrusion.
Click Here to see our Wall Cap options to finalize the look of your new block wall!
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Studio
Our Official Studio will guide you through all options we carry within the selected category to expertly guide you in your decision making process!
Studio Display: Our options of block wall systems!