What should I do when my retaining wall starts failing?

7058482196 • July 10, 2025

Is It Time to Replace My Retaining Wall?

Replacing a Timber Retaining Wall with a Belgard Block Wall: A Stylish, Long-Lasting Upgrade

If your timber retaining wall is starting to rot, lean, or fall apart, it’s time to consider a smarter, more durable solution. While wood has a natural charm, it simply can’t compete with the strength, style, and longevity of modern hardscape materials. One of the best upgrades? A Belgard block wall.

Let’s break down why Belgard blocks are a top choice for residential landscaping, how they differ from commercial-grade cinder blocks, and why this upgrade is a win for your yard.

Why Replace a Timber Retaining Wall?

Timber retaining walls were once a go-to for homeowners because they’re affordable and easy to install. But over time, they come with serious drawbacks:

Rot and Decay: Wood breaks down when exposed to moisture.
Insect Damage: Termites and other pests love to feast on timber.
Structural Weakness: As the wood deteriorates, it can no longer hold back soil, leading to erosion or collapse.

Upgrading to a Belgard block wall not only solves these problems—it also adds beauty and value to your outdoor space.

Belgard Blocks vs. Cinder Blocks: What’s the Difference?

Though both are made from concrete, Belgard blocks and cinder blocks serve very different purposes.

Feature Belgard Block Cinder Block

Use Residential landscaping Commercial construction

Material High-density concrete with decorative finishes Lightweight concrete with coal ash

Strength Designed for retaining soil and outdoor use Requires reinforcement for structural use

Appearance Stylish, textured, and available in various colors Plain gray, utilitarian look

Installation Interlocking system, no mortar needed Typically mortared or reinforced with rebar

Belgard blocks are part of a segmental retaining wall system—modular, interlocking units made for residential landscaping. Cinder blocks, on the other hand, are more common in commercial or industrial settings where appearance isn’t a priority.

Why Belgard Is Best for Residential Landscaping

Belgard blocks are designed with homeowners in mind. Here’s where they shine:

Retaining Walls: Perfect for sloped yards, garden terraces, or erosion control.
Raised Garden Beds: Create clean, elevated planting areas.
Outdoor Living Spaces: Build seating walls, fire pit surrounds, or outdoor kitchens.
Steps and Pathways: Use matching step units for a cohesive look.

They’re easy to install, require little maintenance, and come in a variety of colors and textures to match your home’s style.

When to Use Cinder Blocks Instead

Cinder blocks are better suited for:

Commercial Foundations
Basement Walls
Utility Buildings
Industrial Retaining Walls

They’re functional but not decorative. If you’re building something structural and hidden, cinder blocks might be the right fit. But for anything visible in your yard? Belgard is the way to go.

Final Thoughts: Upgrade Your Landscape with Belgard

Replacing your timber retaining wall with a Belgard block wall is more than just a fix—it’s a transformation. You’ll get a stronger, longer-lasting wall that looks great and adds value to your home.

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What should I do when my retaining wall starts failing?

What Should I Know About Retaining Walls?

By 7058482196 • October 3, 2025

What Should Homeowners Know About Retaining Walls? Thinking about a retaining wall? Whether you're battling erosion, managing a slope, or enhancing curb appeal, here are answers to the most popular questions we get at Fischer Landscape. 1. What is the purpose of a retaining wall? Holds back soil on sloped areas Prevents erosion and water runoff Creates flat, usable yard space Adds structure and beauty to landscaping 2. Do I need a retaining wall? If you have: A sloped or uneven yard Water pooling or erosion issues Cracked or leaning old walls Landscaping plans that need leveled ground …then yes, a retaining wall can help. 3. What materials can be used? Concrete blocks – Durable and versatile Natural stone – Elegant, timeless look Wood/timber – Budget-friendly but less durable Poured concrete – Strong for taller walls 4. How long do retaining walls last? With proper design and drainage: Block or stone walls: 30–50+ years Timber walls: 10–20 years (with maintenance) 5. Do retaining walls need drainage? Yes! Without proper drainage, walls can crack, bulge, or collapse. At Fischer Landscape, we always include gravel backfill, drain pipes, and weep holes to ensure longevity. 6. How much does a retaining wall cost? It depends on: Height and length Materials used Site access and slope Drainage needs Most residential projects range from $3,000 to $15,000+ . 7. Do I need a permit or engineering for a retaining wall? In Georgia, you may need a permit for walls over 4 feet or near structures. We handle permits, designs, and engineering as needed. 8. How long does installation take for a retaining wall? Most residential walls are built in 3 to 7 days , depending on size and weather. Ready to Get Started? Fischer Landscape builds retaining walls that are beautiful, built to last, and designed for Georgia's climate. Get a free quote today!