Attaching to cement wall? - Orchid Board

Sandy4453 · #1 (**permalink**) 11-16-2008, 09:43 AM

Wondering if anyone can offer some suggestions. I'm growing my orchids on the patio (approx. 10' X 20') and have one wall that's unused where I'd like to (maybe) add a shelf or possibly other devices such as sconces for potted plants. Only problem is, it's a cement wall and my drill is in storage with the rest of my house. Is there a way around using a drill to secure whatever I decide to attach or do I need to call a handyman? Has anyone tried, "Liquid Nails" paste and if so, any idea how much weight it can take?

Tsuchibuta · #2 (**permalink**) 11-16-2008, 10:11 AM

I have used liquid nails in the basement to hold 2x4's to the wall so I could finish the basement. It held for years before the basement was gutted because of a water main issue flooded it and ruined everything. As for hanging shelves that may be bit much. I think for safety I would drill.

Ross · #3 (**permalink**) 11-16-2008, 11:11 AM

Can you do free-standing shelves?

brooke · #4 (**permalink**) 11-16-2008, 02:58 PM

Free standing with anchors in a couple of spots to keep it stable?

Brooke

Des · #5 (**permalink**) 11-16-2008, 04:30 PM

I use sky hooks , long lengths of straitened wire which hook around the roof timbers and also have hooks on the ends ,I then hang some wire mesh from that, which then rests up against the wall . Hope this helps

Ross · #6 (**permalink**) 11-16-2008, 04:44 PM

I'd recommend 4 skyhooks NationMaster - Encyclopedia: Skyhook (structure) attached by way of several feet of gigline NationMaster - Encyclopedia: Military slang as a viable method. This will negate the need to attach anything to a wall or even set up a shelving unit. The Military has been doing this for years.

Sandy4453 · #7 (**permalink**) 11-16-2008, 07:50 PM

Great suggestions but all still, too academic for me, sadly. Ross, I already have 15 free standing (some stacked) units all around the patio. This one particular wall is only available from about 3 feet up from the floor, leaving about another 3-4 ft. up, to work with. I'm 5'6" and don't want to start standing on stools to reach.

I've got a humongus "Queen of Thorn" plant there and that wall is killing me knowing that I've got room for more, just not sure how to do this.

I just saw Bonsai's thread (again) and those grids might work if I can find someone to drill a couple of nails in.

Thanks again to all for these suggestions.

Swamper · #8 (**permalink**) 11-16-2008, 07:59 PM

Sandy, how far from Miami/Cutler Bay do you live. I've got my drill ready and I will go drill your holes for you. Ill even put the trellis up for you or whatever you want to put up.

utah · #9 (**permalink**) 11-21-2008, 09:59 PM

I rent power tools from Home Depot all the time.

Sandy4453 · #10 (**permalink**) 11-21-2008, 11:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Swamper

Sandy, how far from Miami/Cutler Bay do you live. I've got my drill ready and I will go drill your holes for you. Ill even put the trellis up for you or whatever you want to put up.

Swamper, I'm just now seeing your post, here. Apologies for not responding sooner, especially with such a generous offer as this! I have spent the last 10 days at the hospital/ICU because of my mother, whose been sick so my visits to the board have been brief. I didn't see this.

Anyway, I'm pretty far from Miami, in South Palm Beach, otherwise I'd take you up on the offer.

Are you going to the AOS orchid show in Delray this weekend? I'm planning on being there for a couple of hours before heading back to the hospital so I really hope to meet up with you and everyone.