Belgard Terrace Wall®: The Perfect Hardscaping Solution for Your Outdoor Space
Hardscaping plays a crucial role in transforming outdoor areas into functional, beautiful spaces. From patios to retaining walls, the right hardscaping product can make your yard or garden stand out. If you’re looking for a versatile, durable, and easy-to-install option for medium-sized projects, Belgard Terrace Wall® is a great choice. Let’s dive into what makes this block system an excellent solution for homeowners looking to improve their outdoor spaces.
What is the Belgard Terrace Wall® and Why Is It Useful?
The Belgard Terrace Wall® is a medium-sized, split-stone retaining wall block designed to add strength and durability to your outdoor hardscaping. It provides a natural stone look, but without the hefty price tag or difficult installation process. Whether you’re planning to build a retaining wall, garden bed, or even a feature wall, this product is perfect for smaller residential or commercial projects.
What sets Belgard Terrace Wall® apart is its ease of use, sleek appearance, and ability to withstand the elements. Plus, with the classic split-stone look, it provides the timeless beauty of natural stone without the headache of maintenance or high costs.
Where Can You Use the Belgard Terrace Wall®?
Belgard Terrace Wall® can be used in a variety of ways around your yard. Here are some common uses for this versatile hardscape product:
- Retaining Walls: A great solution for creating low retaining walls to prevent soil erosion, level uneven terrain, or simply add depth to your landscape design. You can use it to build a wall around your garden or backyard to give it a polished, structured look.
- Garden Beds: Create raised garden beds for flowers, herbs, or vegetables. Belgard Terrace Wall® offers a clean, modern look while also providing support for the soil and plants.
- Outdoor Features: Use it to create features such as firepit areas, seating walls, or planters. Its larger blocks are great for building custom, eye-catching structures that fit right into your landscape.
- Pathways and Edging: Belgard Terrace Wall® works perfectly for edging along pathways, driveways, or around flowerbeds. Its clean lines make it an excellent choice for adding visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Style, Features, and Dimensions
Let’s break down the Belgard Terrace Wall® in more detail so you can better visualize how it might work for your project:
Style and Features:
- Classic Split-Stone Look: The natural, textured finish mimics the appearance of split stone, providing a timeless, rustic charm to your outdoor space.
- Color Blends for a Natural Stone Look: The color blends are designed to replicate the varied tones found in real stone, so your project will look as if it’s been there for years.
- Larger Shape for Contemporary Styling: The medium size of the block provides a modern touch while still being large enough to create sturdy, visually appealing walls.
- Versatile for Residential and Commercial Projects: Perfect for medium-sized applications, whether you’re updating your backyard or working on a commercial landscape.
Dimensions:
- Block Size: The standard block size for the Belgard Terrace Wall® is approximately 12 inches long, 7.5 inches high, and 6 inches deep, making it easy to handle while still providing a strong foundation for your structure.
- Minimum Outside Radius: 35 ¾ inches (from the back of the block) – useful for curving walls or creating circular features like fire pits.
- Maximum Unreinforced Wall Height: 48 inches (without geogrid) – perfect for building moderate-height walls for planters, garden features, or low retaining walls.
Installation Guide: Easy to Follow, Step-by-Step Instructions
Building with Belgard Terrace Wall® is straightforward. Here’s how to go about it:
1. Prepare the Site: Start by clearing the area where you plan to install the wall. Make sure the ground is level and compacted to provide a stable base. It’s a good idea to mark out your project with string or spray paint so you can keep everything straight.
2. Lay the First Course: Begin with the first row of blocks. This row needs to be perfectly level, as it forms the foundation for the rest of the wall. You can use a level to check each block as you go. If you’re creating a curved wall, make sure to measure the radius to get the correct curvature.
3. Stack the Blocks: For the next few courses, stagger the joints between the blocks, just like laying bricks. This creates a stable wall. Each block has a lip or notch that locks into the row beneath it, so you don’t need to worry about them shifting.
4. Add Geogrid for Taller Walls: If your wall exceeds 30 inches in height, you’ll need to reinforce it with geogrid, a fabric that helps prevent the wall from leaning or collapsing. Simply place it between courses of blocks for additional stability.
5. Add Core Fill: For even more reinforcement, fill the core of each block with clean, ¾-inch stone. This will help distribute weight evenly and make sure your wall stands strong over time.
Pro Tip: If you’re building a taller wall or working with heavy materials, it might be worth hiring a professional to ensure everything is properly installed, especially for commercial projects.
Benefits of Belgard Terrace Wall®
- Durability: Built to last, Belgard Terrace Wall® is resistant to weather, wear, and tear. The durable construction makes it ideal for retaining walls and structures exposed to the elements.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The natural split-stone appearance provides a rustic, timeless charm, while the color blends add depth and sophistication to your outdoor space.
- Value: Belgard Terrace Wall® is an affordable option that gives you the look of real stone without the price tag. It’s ideal for homeowners who want to improve their yard on a budget.
- Flexibility: Whether you’re looking to create straight walls, curves, or raised beds, the Belgard Terrace Wall® system is designed to be flexible. It works for a variety of applications and is perfect for medium-sized projects.
Best Practices When Shopping for Hardscape Products
When shopping for hardscape materials like Belgard Terrace Wall®, here are some things to keep in mind:
What to Look For:
- Material Quality: Make sure the blocks are made from durable, weather-resistant materials. Belgard Terrace Wall® is designed to stand up to the elements, so look for products with a similar level of resilience.
- Color and Finish: Choose colors and textures that complement your outdoor style. The split-stone look of Belgard Terrace Wall® adds a natural, rustic charm that can blend well with any landscape.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid:
- Choosing the Wrong Size: Double-check your measurements before you purchase. If you’re unsure about how many blocks you’ll need, consult with a supplier or contractor to ensure you’re getting the right quantity and size.
- Skipping Drainage: Proper drainage is essential for retaining walls. If you skip this step, water can accumulate behind the wall, leading to structural issues. Always use clean stone for core fill and include proper drainage behind the wall.
Reputation of the Manufacturer: Quality You Can Trust
Belgard Terrace Wall® is made by Unilock, a trusted name in hardscaping for over 40 years. Known for its high-quality materials and innovative designs, Unilock offers reliable solutions for both residential and commercial landscapes. With numerous positive reviews and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Unilock’s products are backed by decades of experience.
Final Thoughts: Belgard Terrace Wall® is a Smart Investment
The Belgard Terrace Wall® offers an excellent combination of durability, aesthetic appeal, and value for homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor spaces. Whether you’re building a retaining wall, raised garden bed, or outdoor feature, this versatile block system is an investment that will pay off. Its natural stone look adds beauty, while its strength and durability ensure it will stand the test of time.
Ready to get started? Visit a local supplier or talk to a landscaping professional to see how Belgard Terrace Wall® can bring your outdoor vision to life.
