How to Deconstruct a Cinder Block Wall

Deconstructing a cinder block wall is a strange mixture of brutal labor and exhilaration. There is something thrilling about hitting something really hard with a sledgehammer while simultaneously doing something useful. If you combine your brute strength with good technique, you can break the mortar joints between the blocks while preserving the blocks for future use. Although cinder block walls are very strong when left in place, they are surprisingly easy to break apart with a good sledgehammer.

Sledgehammer
Wheelbarrow

Instructions

- 1
  Remove anything on top of the cinder block wall before attempting to deconstruct it. Clear all fragile items, children and pets out of the work area.
- 2
  Hit the joint between two cinder blocks in the top course of the wall. If this course is higher than eye level, make your job easier by working on scaffolding or other sturdy riser that will support both you and the heavy work you are doing. To preserve the blocks, begin hitting the wall gently and increase the force only to the point that is necessary to break the joint and loosen the blocks.
- 3
  Grab a block from the back and tilt it toward you. Lift it off the wall and toss it onto the ground or into a wheelbarrow for removal.
- 4
  Loosen and remove all the blocks in the top course before moving down to the second course. Continue in this manner until the wall is gone.

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