Walls and Ceilings - Textured, block wall?

Hello,
Has anyone ever tried to change the look of a block wall, by adding a different texture to it? If so I'd like to know about it!

Thanks

You can easily stucco unpainted block.

If this is an interior, unpainted wall and there is no moisture infiltration you can use either gypsum plaster or Portland cement plaster (stucco).
If it is below grade proceed with caution. Rethink.
If it is painted you can use a bonding agent. Bonding agents are only as good as the paint to which they are applied.
Even if the below grade block seem dry opt for Portland cement plaster rather than gypsum plaster.

Unpainted block makes a good substrate for plaster or stucco.

If it is an unpainted block wall (above or below grade) Thoroseal, a super waterproofer can also be used for texturing. Best to do it on the second coat, before the first has not cured too muc (next day?). Use a latex additive for improved properties and adhesion.

Mix it stiff and practice a little first to get the appearance (trowelled, dabbed, etc.) you want.

Dick

Good suggestion. I forgot about Thoroseal and their other products.

I've seen block walls in Vegas covered in stucco and painted. The only thing is they tend to deteriorate over time if the sprinkler systems hit them. That's usually after about 5 years.

Sounds like a typical desert sand/cement coating with a cheap paint-type coating. They do not do too well with chemicals and repeated wet/dry situations.

The quality products do stand up much better because of the bonding, low absorption and density. Plain coatings are tough to get durability with alternating cycles.

In addition to Thoroseal, there are some very good Thoro products for different sheens and concrete repair. I don't know how they work for rougher textures, but they certainly are compatible.

Dick