2004 | 05
Makeovers – DIY or DIFM?
Steps to perfect paving
Top tips for a better garden
What’s new and what’s hot
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outdoor design guide 2004 | 05
My backyard – a place of rest and contemplation,
a haven for health and wellbeing. Where we share
genuine, special moments with family and friends…
where our children can play safely and securely.
6
Contents
3
8
Makeover Missions
Two backyards, both in need of a makeover
to become stylish, practical and inviting.
Steps to Perfect Paving
A step by step guide to laying perfect paving.
10 Contemporary Elegance
An overgrown entrance becomes a smart
and stylish courtyard.
10
11 Modern Fusion
A low maintenance marvel with heaps of appeal.
12 What’s New & What’s Hot?
The latest in garden trends.
14 Top Tips for a Better Garden
Points to consider when planning your own
outdoor landscaping project.
22
16 New Cobblestones and Old Town Paving
The old-world charm of Europe, now in Australia.
18 Retaining Wall Solutions
A quick and easy ‘How To’ guide.
20 Frequently Asked Questions
…and online tools to make everything easier.
22 Are You Sitting Pretty?
Inspirational outdoor furniture that will knock you
off your feet.
[THE ASSIGNMENT]
Two backyards, both in need of a makeover to become stylish, practical and inviting.
Makeover missions
DIFM or DIY? We look at two completely different approaches to undertaking a backyard makeover. The Watsons hired
professionals to ‘Do It For Me’ whereas the Allens chose to ‘Do It Yourself’. Both achieved great results, but how do you decide
which method is best for you? Below are some points to consider.
Don’t forget you can always combine the two – use professionals where you feel you need skilled assistance (perhaps in design,
plant choice or building a retaining wall), and do the rest yourself!
Where to start? Whichever way you choose to go, there are a few things you can do from the outset which you’ll find
of enormous benefit to ensure you achieve the look you want. Visit www.boral.com.au/odg for tips on successfully planning
your outdoor project.
[ D I F M M A K E OV E R ]
•
•
•
•
•
fast
involves minimal owner time
the outcome will be truly professional
elaborate or complex designs are possible
professionals have technical expertise to deal
with drainage and other site problems
• you pay more for professional assistance
The DIFM Team
The Watsons – two busy
professionals and their dog.
Lisa and John want a no-fuss,
low maintenance backyard
that they can relax and
entertain in. But with little
time to create it themselves,
they are prepared to pay
professionals to ‘Do It For Me’.
RE
FO
E
B
ER
FT
A
[ D I Y M A K E OV E R ]
Boral – helping you to achieve your dream home
Have you ever wondered about the
company behind Australia’s favourite
pavers and retaining wall products?
Boral is an Australian company that started
in 1946 and has grown with its success to
be the country’s leading supplier of a range
of building and construction materials.
Boral’s products are designed to make
projects easier… not only paving and
retaining wall units, but windows, sand
and aggregates, asphalt, roof tiles, bricks,
timber flooring and decking, plasterboard
and cornices, blocks, formwork, cement,
edging, concrete and even scaffolding!
Employing over 12,000 people, Boral invests
in its staff and its facilities to guarantee the
highest standard of knowledge, skills and
performance. Its products keep pace with
the latest design trends and are created using
advanced technology – so homemakers and
builders can be sure they are getting the best.
To assist you in your renovation projects
Boral has a website that offers a host of ideas,
professional tricks and clever web-based tools
to use, as well as free brochures, and offices
around the country.
From planning to completion, Boral can help
you achieve your dream home.
ER
FT
A
• cost savings are achieved by doing your own labour
• what a rewarding experience it is – with personal
pride in a job well done!
• involves great personal effort and time
• achieving professional detail often comes
with experience
• elaborate designs are not recommended
The DIY Team
The Allens are two DIY enthusiasts
with two children and a dog. With
their tight budget in mind, Richard
and Sue have attended a range of
DIY courses and read a number of
books and brochures in preparation
for the makeover. They look forward
to the whole family working
together to produce their new yard,
have no real time constraints and
know they can save money on
labour this way!
RE
FO
E
B
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outdoor design guide 2004 | 05
[DO IT FOR ME!]
*The Brief
From mess to magic
for the Watsons
•
•
•
•
•
•
Raised Beds
The golden tones of the
Heathstone® retaining wall
units complement the
Aspenstone® pavers, while
the quarried stone-like
finish provides a contrasting
texture. Bevelled edges and
matching capping continue
the elegant theme.
a good sized entertaining area
low maintenance all-round
make the yard look bigger
a water feature
elegant, traditional appeal
grassed area for a clothes line
and the dog
Budget Tip
Clearing the area first by removing
grass and existing paving, and potting
any plants you want to keep, is a great
way to keep your labour costs down.
Tip
Another advantage of getting
professionals to do it for you is that
they can take care of local council and
Water Board approvals. The Watsons’
new side wall required both.
The Watsons happily sat back and
watched their dream become a reality.
The Watsons decided that
they should ask professionals
to create their new outdoor
area for them. The decision
was based on a number of
factors including –
• a non-standard yard shape
• a slight slope requiring
expertise in drainage
• they like detail and veer
towards elaborate rather
than simple designs
• they are time-strapped
Armed with a good brief*,
they contacted landscape
architect Ingrid Villata to
produce concept designs.
Their primary need was for
a low-maintenance, elegant
space with a dedicated
entertaining area.
Once the design and an
estimated cost was agreed
upon, the Watsons
essentially went back to
work, leaving Ingrid and
her DIFM team to get on
with the job.
Professional action
Early preparation included
submitting the side wall plan
to council, dealing with the
Water Board (the new wall
was built over an existing
pipe), working out a schedule
and hiring subcontractors.
The installation team arrived
to clear the yard, level the
uneven slope and excavate to
allow for the council-required
footings for the side wall.
Next, the side wall and raised
garden beds were measured
out and built. A convenient
bench seat, adjacent to the
BBQ area, was incorporated
into the raised bed design.
A formal, rectangular pond
was built, ornamental
fountain heads were fixed
in place and electricity for
pump, filter and garden
lighting was installed by
an electrician.
Next, the Boral Aspenstone®
pavers arrived. These were
laid in a herringbone pattern,
chosen to draw the eye
along their way, giving the
feeling of spaciousness.
Quality soil and plants
arrived in a single big delivery
(a cost-saving through
professional good timing)
ready to be positioned,
planted and watered in.
This was followed by turf,
mulch and the birdbath focal
point. The Watsons chose
young plants for budgetary
reasons and so they could
tend and train them as
they grow.
Cleaning Tip
Aspenstone® is a pre-sealed
paver and will help slow
down the absorption of
any spill. But remember, it is
important to act quickly. If you
spill red wine, for instance, wash
down the pavers immediately.
Paving Choice
For its ability to add
sophisticated character,
the Watsons chose
Boral Aspenstone®
pavers. Aspenstone®
is a large format,
rectangular shaped
paver with a washed,
aged look that emulates
natural stone. Steps
were given an elegant,
rounded edge with
matching Aspenstone®
bullnose pavers.
Tips for Finding a Professional
Ask for a referral from friends
who’ve had successful
landscaping work done.
Look under ‘Landscape’ in the
phone directory for a range of
architects, designers and installers.
Landscape architects and
landscape designers will
produce a concept design
to suit your property and your
needs. Additional services can
vary, so ask what else they
can do for you, eg. do they
project manage? have
installers to recommend?
Ask about their particular
expertise, experience,
fee structure. Request a portfolio
of their work and references –
and look at examples of
completed projects.
The DIFM Team
Your landscaping project can
always be divided into stages,
each to be undertaken as you have
budget available.
Landscape Architect
Site challenges
have been overcome
effectively with a
pleasing result.
Client
We love the style,
the space and the
ease. Our wishes
came true!
Installer
A broad range of
skills and experience
ensures a
professional finish.
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outdoor design guide 2004 | 05
[ D O I T YO U R S E L F ! ]
DIY action at the Allens
Having recently completed their new garage – and saving
money by doing a lot of it themselves – the Allens looked
on their shabby backyard with a DIY glint in their eyes!
Timber highlights in Boral Stormwood™
in Blackbutt – for more information
call 1800 818 317
The first stage was to work
out exactly what they wanted
from this smallish yard.
The Allens’ Wish List
A play area for the kids, an
extension of the existing
favourite sunny area to
enable space for a good-sized
outdoor entertaining area, a
sheltered position for the dog
kennel… and the effect of one
beautiful, large room when
the doors are flung open.
The look? Everyone wanted
a modern, lively, happy feel,
and felt that a simple,
uncluttered design would
best suit the small yard.
DIY Action
The family prepared a check
list so that their focus and
direction remained constant –
the Allens knew that deviations
can cost time and money!
To visually expand the
site (and, conveniently, for
faster laying), they chose
pale-toned large format Boral
Promenade® 400 x 400mm
pavers laid in a stretcher
bond pattern (see over for
a step-by-step guide on
how to lay pavers).
Available in a range of
solid colours, Promenade®
has an evenly–toned,
smooth finish that
complements many
outdoor designs.
Richard and Sue discovered
an easy way of building
garden steps by using
Boral 20.01 Coloured Blocks.
Their creamy tone and
smooth-faced finish was
chosen to match the pavers.
Steps were topped with
Promenade® bullnose pavers,
the rounded lip adding a
professional finish.
Angling the steps was a
simple yet effective design
master stroke – making the
whole yard appear bigger
and directing guests toward
the entertaining area.
Privacy was addressed
with timber accents (a great
new trend for outdoors),
home-made for economy.
Boral Stormwood™ timber
was delivered in lengths, cut
to size, nailed together, and
stained by Richard to match
adjacent windows and doors.
The Result
A simple but effective design
that makes optimal use of
space. The refreshing and
open look comes from the
use of light colours, fun
accessories and colourful
plants which can be easily
replaced at a later date to
create a completely different
look whilst the hard
landscaping remains.
The Allens saved money by
doing all the work themselves
and had a very rewarding
experience along the way.
They have a lot to be proud of!
Visit www.boral.com.au/odg
for a list of plants purchased
for this DIY makeover.
Boral 20.01 Coloured Blocks were topped with
Promenade® bullnose pavers, their rounded lip
adding a professional finish.
The DIY
Team
The Owner
Sue Allen is
pleased with the
steps that give her
a sunny seat for
morning coffee.
The Kids
Love their new
two-level garden
play room.
The Dog
Sammy loves
his new yard.
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outdoor design guide 2004 | 05
Steps to perfect paving
The path to perfect DIY paving is relatively easy – particularly
if you choose a simple laying pattern. Just take it step by step
and check your work as you go.
Tools
Step 2
Spread and screed the bedding sand.
The easiest way to screed sand is to
use two guides (screed rails) and a
screeding board (eg. a flat piece of
timber). Establish bedding tracks with
the screeding board.
Step 3
Bed the screed rails into the bedding
track established. Drag the screeding
board in a sawing motion from side to
side across the rails to create a firm,
level laying surface.
Pegs
Screeding board
Mechanical plate
compacter
Piece of carpet
or rubber matting
Wheelbarrow
Measuring tape
Stringline and
wooden stakes
Spirit level
Shovel
Rake (metal prongs)
Screeding rails
This guide shows the basic steps to creating a paved area. More detailed information can be found in
the ‘Complete Guide to Laying Pavers’ brochure free from your local Boral stockist, or on www.boral.com.au/odg
Step 1
Excavate the area to be paved to
allow for the base layer (generally
100-150mm thick of roadbase),
bedding sand (generally 30mm
thick with coarse washed river sand)
and the paver. Spread the road base
to an even thickness and compact
using a mechanical plate compactor.
Materials
Step 4
Set stringlines at right angles to
establish paving lines. These will also
act as a great guide to help you keep
the joints straight – for that truly
professional look!
Marker pen
Stiff bristled broom
Hose & spray nozzle
Safety equipment/clothing
Paving cutting equipment
(eg. brick saw)
Step 5
Start laying along the longest straight
edge of the designated area, and lay
whole pavers first. Leave 3-5mm
between pavers to allow for jointing
sand (unless the pavers have nibs).
Cut and position part-pavers if the job
requires them. Edge restraints prevent
the pavers from moving – refer to the
‘Complete Guide to Laying Pavers’
for details.
Pavers
Base layer (road base)
Bedding sand (coarsed,
washed river sand)
Jointing sand
(fine dry grade sand)
Sand and cement
for edge restraints
Step 6
Sweep jointing sand over the finished,
dry paving, ensuring that all joints are full.
Compact the surface, add more jointing
sand, sweep off excess and repeat.
Laying styles
Get the look:
paving laying styles
Over time, many different paving laying patterns have been
developed. Some are purely decorative, others give the
impression of a larger or longer space, or even for that matter
a smaller, cozier area. They can even emphasise direction.
1. 45° Herringbone
2. 45° Stack Bond
3. 45° Stretcher Bond with
flat header coarse
4. Stretcher Bond
Your choice of colour and texture can extend your options.
Use of two contrasting or coordinating colours or textures in
paving adds a further decorative element. When using one
solid tone, a good rule to remember is that darker colours will
make an area appear smaller whilst lighter colours achieve
the opposite effect.
* Note: Herringbone
pattern is recommended
for driveways.
1*
2
3
4
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outdoor design guide 2004 | 05
Contemporary elegance...
it’s a natural!
Modern Fusion–
designed to perform!
Who would believe this smart and stylish
courtyard was once a small, overgrown area
at the entrance to the Whiteleys’ home?
The Jacksons’ garden is a low maintenance
marvel with heaps of modern appeal.
• Natural Paving:
Bringelly® in new Ash has
an elongated, rectangular
shape and is kiln-fired from
natural clay and shales.
• Timber Highlight:
Recycled timber panels
stained in walnut.
• Vibrant Plantings:
Tall: Syzygium Paniculatum
(Dwarf) and Phormium
‘Maori Chief’
Low: Syzygium ‘Tiny Trev’
Syzygium
Paniculatum
(Dwarf)
Phormium
‘Maori Chief’
Tiny Trev
Smaller
Lilly Pilly hedge
Wooden central
area and sculpture
Clay pavers:
stretcher bond
• Paving Tip:
Naturally low-slip and
salt-resistant Pavescape®
is ideal for around wet areas.
It won’t fade and will not
require sealing to maintain
its creamy good looks.
• Plant Detail:
Introducing vibrant colour
and angular interest is easy
with Phormium ‘Maori Chief’.
Syzygium Cascade provides
additional red splashes.
Reinvented as a useable space for
relaxing, it is now welcoming and
elegant, complementing the style
of the house and reflecting the
personal taste of its inhabitants.
This simple, rectangular
design gains visual impact
through interesting use of
natural textures, combining
panels of elongated clay
paving and pebble highlights
to form a grid pattern.
The neat appearance is
enhanced through the design’s
structured, formal look and strong
geometric lines. A feeling of
spaciousness is achieved both
through the stretcher bond laying
style and by softening the edges
and perimeters with raised beds
planted in a stepped-back fashion.
Latest designer trends are incorporated
through natural materials, tones and
textures. A dark wood highlight
contrasts dramatically against the
pale pavers, adding impact to the
garden’s focal point.
Serene neutral tones abound
– Pavescape® pavers in soft
creamy Merino are laid in a
45º stretcher bond pattern.
Rendered finishes, including
the contemporary water
feature are in Stone Beige.
To find out more about
Boral clay pavers, call
1300 550 369.
Both the selection of plants
and paving are easy-care
and easy to live with –
a smart move to allow more
time for relaxing.
Phormium ‘Maori Chief’
450mm high
retaining wall
Syzygium Cascade
Water feature
1200mm high
New Patio
Vergola
over
Magnolia
Grandiflora
‘Little Gem’
Pathway
Turf
Clay pavers:
stretcher
course 45 °
Phormium ‘Maori Chief’
Large inlaid pebbles
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outdoor design guide 2004 | 05
Aspenstone®
Introducing new Stylestone® colours,
Kota Green, Ash White and Wheat
Add designer style with these latest new harmonious tones
in large format Stylestone® pavers. They suit many outdoor
styles and themes and are available in two textured finishes.
For special effect, combine smooth and rough textures
or colour-mix with Charcoal or other Stylestone® tones.
Phone 1300 134 002 for a Stylestone® new colours brochure.
What’s hot?
Large format pavers –
not only are they faster to
lay but large format pavers
make a small space appear
more substantial and add
a luxury feeling. Examples
include Boral Aspenstone®
rectangular pavers with a
washed, aged look that
emulates natural stone;
smooth, square Promenade®;
and Stylestone® with its fine
Rusticstone or slate-inspired
Rockpave finish and new
designer colours.
Stylestone®
Top plants –
‘look at me’ plants with
interesting shapes include:
dracaena, yucca, grass
trees or variegated foliage
like bromeliads, coleus,
aspidistra, crotons and
cordylines. Succulents such
as mother-in-law’s tongue,
agave, calanchoe – potted
for portability or planted
in an evenly-spaced row
to create impact, and ‘old
fashioned’ hydrangeas,
roses, gardenias, lavender
and camellias.
Stylestone®
Texture in the landscape –
achieved with mass
plantings of a single
species of plant to produce
a solid band of consistent
repeating patterns (such
as the vertical shafts of
flax and other grass-style
plants). Also achieved by
mixing different surfaces.
Try laying rough-surfaced
square pavers like Boral
Stylestone® in a Rockpave
finish with an edge of
smooth, rounded pebbles.
What’s new?
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outdoor design guide 2004 | 05
Top tips
for a better garden
1 Driveway design
6 Practical
finishing touches
A driveway can be stylish as well as functional if you
use extra-strong, thicker pavers created specifically to
withstand vehicle weight. Decorative options include contrasting
borders, a central ‘nature’ strip of grass or low ground cover
and regular highlight pavers down its length. For a co-ordinated
look, Boral’s driveway pavers come in matching regular pavers
for paths, patios and poolside. Shown here is Boral Handipave®.
A header course is a
decorative effect, usually
constructed in conjunction
with the edge restraint
system. This system is
critical to strengthening the
whole of a flexible pavement,
not just the edge. A square
header is laid at right angles
to the paving, whereas a
longitudinal or ‘soldier’
course is laid parallel. Boral
Handipave® (square shape)
with a header course of
Classicpave® (brick shape)
is a popular choice, both
are available in mix and
match tones to extend
design opportunities.
2 Strategic lighting
Set the mood in an evening
garden with lighting. Highlight
foliage or direct eyes towards tree
canopies, angle beams to a fountain
or focal point, or consider sinking
footlights along the path to guide
the way. Add glimmering lanterns
on bamboo poles or cast light
through the fish pond, bringing it
to teeming life. Right: Tea candles
bathe Aspenstone® in a warm glow.
3
7 Natural neutrals
The latest trend in hard
landscaping (paving,
retaining walls and fencing)
is towards neutral tones.
An investment in neutrals
provides a timeless backdrop
which can be accented with
colourful plants and accessories
as themes and fashions take
your fancy.
A posse of path tips
Paths direct traffic and reduce the amount of dirt carried
into the home. A meandering path encourages a leisurely
tour of the garden – and will help make a small yard appear
larger, particularly if its final resting point is obscured.
To make a path appear more substantial, pave in a stretcher
bond laying style across the width of the path. Another fabulous
effect is created by laying large-format pavers in neat rows along
your designated path area, allowing say six centimetres of space
around each paver. Then plant mini grasses or low ground cover
between the pavers.
4 Water saving ideas
8 Sun and shade
Reducing the size of your
lawn by adding paving not
only saves water but makes your
yard more practical and useful!
Another tip is to widen garden
areas and plant species that are
drought-tolerant or require less
water. Apply organic mulch to
maximise water absorption, reduce
evaporation and deter weeds.
When planning your
garden, watch where the
sun falls throughout the year,
and if space allows ensure you
have both a sunny and a shaded,
paved outdoor living area. With
Promenade® pavers, a wellplaced pergola can screen the
harsh summer sun yet allow
warmth and light through in
winter – making your fresh air
room a year-round delight!
5 Do you need to be ‘salt safe’?
If you live within 1km of the surf coast, 100m from a
non-surf coast, have heavy clay soil or aggressive soils
such as those in low-lying areas along inland river valleys,
you should choose salt safe or exposure grade pavers. Boral
offers a range of these such as Pavescape®, Summerset® and
selected Bringelly® clay pavers – all guaranteed to perform
in the harshest conditions.
9
Making a sloping yard work
Sloping yards can be quite impractical, however a slow
incline may simply need a firm sloping path or ramp for
comfortable access. To determine whether stairs are required,
calculate the rate of incline. First measure the length of the area.
Run a stringline from one end to the other, fixing it at ground level
at the highest point. Stretch it taught and horizontal. At the lowest
point measure the distance from the stringline to the ground –
this is the ‘fall’. Compare this to the distance – eg. a two-metre
fall over a 10 metre length (ie. 2:10). Steps are recommended if
the slope is greater than 1:10. Shown here is Boral Gardenwall®.
Capturing this mood perfectly
is the latest in Boral Bringelly®
clay pavers. Inspired by the
Australian landscape, Bringelly®
Almond and Ash are pale
neutrals that mix and match
with new Ochre. Made from
natural clay and shales,
all are easy care, salt-resistant
and will not fade.
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outdoor design guide 2004 | 05
Random laying pattern
With Bradstone® Old Town
a truly random-laid look
is easy to achieve. How?
Firstly, there are three
different sized pavers
provided in your order.
Secondly, each paver
comes in a subtly different
but complementary natural
surface. A random laying
style guide is provided
making installation simple.
450 x 300 x 40mm
300 x 300 x 40mm
Bradstone
the s tyle of Europe
now in Aus tralia
®
New: experience the
genuine old world charm
of antique stone with
Bradstone paving
600 x 300 x 40mm
®
They are available
in two styles:
Bradstone® Cobbles –
a single paving unit
(450 x 300 x 50mm) that
cleverly gives the appearance
of six individually laid,
age-worn cobbles and can
even be laid on a driveway.
Interesting edging can also
be created with these units.
Old Town and cobblestones have enhanced patios and
gardens in Europe for centuries. Now it is possible to
recreate this warm, character-filled look in Australia
with internationally renowned Bradstone® from Boral.
With its lovely, aged appearance Bradstone®
reconstituted stone products add instant maturity
to paths, patios and courtyards.
Bradstone® products combine
the look and feel of traditional
stone with the high performance,
long life, low maintenance
qualities of modern materials.
Made from reconstituted stone, quality Bradstone®
will help you achieve a classic look whether you’re
renovating or starting from scratch!
Bradstone® is exclusive to Boral in Australia.
Further details are available in Boral’s free Bradstone® brochure.
To obtain a copy phone 1300 134 002.
Bradstone®
Old Town –
reproduces the visual
characteristics of age-old
reclaimed stone paving,
in three sizes –
• 300 x 300 x 40mm,
• 600 x 300 x 40mm,
• 450 x 300 x 40mm.
A matching 450 x 300mm
bullnose paver will beautifully
finish swimming pools,
courtyards and steps.
Two natural tones
are available –
a muted soft stone, Gironde,
and a deep, aged slate colour,
Grey Green.
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outdoor design guide 2004 | 05
Retaining wall solutions
Do you have…
• a sloping yard?
• a flat block and want to add some interest?
• a major level change on your block?
• lousy drainage?
• poor soil?
• neighbouring land higher than yours?
Any of these conditions call for Boral blocks known as
‘retaining wall units’, which are used for building raised
planter beds and outdoor walls from 300mm high to
well over a metre.
Boral have developed some unique retaining wall
blocks that can allow the average home handyperson
to complete a small retaining wall project in a single
weekend. For instance, check out Heathstone®,
Gardenwall® and Litewall®.
Planning your
retaining wall project
A quick guide to building a retaining wall
This guide shows the basic steps to building a retaining wall. More detailed information can be found in Boral retaining wall and ’How To Build’ brochures.
Check with
your council
Consult with your
local council for design
regulations prior to the
design and construction of a
retaining wall. Most councils
in general require that
retaining walls over 0.5m be
designed and certified by a
suitably qualified engineer.
1
Incorporating retaining wall units into your garden plan
brings many benefits, including:
• Plants love the great drainage that raised beds provide;
• Creating a terraced effect (different levels with a step
or steps in between) makes a sloped block more
accessible and usable, not to mention stylish!
• Adding a different level provides visual appeal and
structural interest, dividing up the space and lending
an air of mystery, particularly if you have plants
obscuring one area.
Selecting a
retaining wall
When selecting
your retaining wall
consult the chart below
for the maximum wall
height for each product.
Then think about the
look you want – do
you prefer small or
large face blocks?
2
Boral retaining walls
Maximum wall heights table for gravity walls
Boral Product
Walls over 800mm can be built from Keystone® or
Pyrmont® units and will require professional assistance.
To create an illusion of depth and space in
this garden, a second level was created using
a Heathstone® retaining wall with matching
caps and corners.
Prepare the site
Dig the trench,
removing any roots
and soft earth. Add road
base or coarse sand.
Compact this and level it
to form a levelling pad.
5
Lay the first course
Lay the first course
by placing blocks side
by side. Level each block
using a spirit level. Install
an agricultural drain / pipe
behind the first course and
surround with gravel or to
manufacturer’s specification.
6
Maximum Wall Height*
Litewall®
500mm
Gardenwall®
750mm
Ravenastone®
640mm
Heathstone®
810mm
Heathstone Grand®
810mm
Keystone®
800mm**
Pyrmont®
800mm**
The Boral retaining walls
(shown left), should not
be installed above the
recommended maximum
wall height or into cuttings
where the base soil or
back fill is not firm or is of
expansive clay. Never install
where loads (eg. buildings,
driveways) will be located
within 1.0 metre of the wall.
* Maximum wall heights for
good soil (gravels, sandy
gravels, crushed sandstone).
** Note: for higher walls
please contact Boral for
information on building
Keystone® or Pyrmont® walls
with soil reinforcement.
Locate your wall
Mark out the wall
using stakes and a
string line, or spray paint
a line on the ground.
3
Calculate blocks
required
Calculate the number
of blocks required multiply
your m2 measurement for
the wall (wall height x wall
length) by the number of
units per m2.
4
Remember to include
the first course of blocks
(which will be embedded
in the ground) into your
calculations. The Boral
website calculator can
make this easy!
Back fill and compact
Place drainage material
(12-20mm sized gravel)
behind your first course as
well as in the cores/openings
in the top of the blocks and
between each block. Shovel
and compact backfill behind
the drainage material.
Additional courses
Sweep the top of the
previous course clean
and place the next course
on top. Continue to backfill
and compact with drainage
material and backfill.
Install capping unit
Place capping blocks
on the top course,
securing with an appropriate
adhesive, such as liquid nails.
7
8
9
20
outdoor design guide 2004 | 05
Frequently
asked questions
FAQ
Our Website
Don’t forget to check
the online tools on
www.boral.com.au/odg
to help make your job
at hand easier!
Just click on
www.boral.com.au/odg
and select the calculator
you require (paving or
retaining wall).
Just click on
www.boral.com.au/odg
Simply enter the length and
width of your paving or
retaining wall area, click on
the Boral product of your
choice and the calculator will
tell you the number of pavers
or retaining wall blocks you
require (in units and in square
metres). To allow for cuts and
breakages, a wastage factor
is included in the final figure.
These nifty Boral calculators
will also work out the
number of retaining wall
caps you will need and help
you calculate your paving
requirements for an irregular
shaped area.
Alternatively, brochures are
available to help you calculate
the number of Boral paving or
retaining wall units required
for your garden project.
How do I select which
paver size will best suit
my garden project?
As a general rule, it is best
to match paver size to your
area – larger pavers for big
spaces, small pavers for
smaller areas. However, if
you’re after a truly modern
look, consider large format
pavers for any paving space!
Seeing what others have
done is always a great way
to help make a choice. Click
on the Boral Online Photo
Gallery to see a variety of
paving sizes in different
completed garden projects.
More still are contained in
the Boral range of paving
and retaining wall brochures
which can be ordered from
the website or by calling
1300 134 002.
NEW TOOL
How do I calculate the
amount of Boral products
I require?
The new Boral Online
Paving and Retaining Wall
Calculators make this
important equation easy!
NEW TOOL
What’s the best way to get
my garden project started?
First, identify your needs
and understand the
limitations of your site in
terms of achieving the look
you want. A great way to
establish this is to draw a
rough plan of the existing
area and mark all the key
points. The Boral website
has an online planning
checklist to guide you
through the necessary
elements you will need to
include in your diagram.
NEW TOOL
WEB TOOL
...and some great online
tools to make things even easier
www.boral.com.au/odg
How do I know which
retaining wall best suits
my needs?
Retaining walls can be
as simple as a small, low,
raised garden bed, half-metre
heights to create a terraced
effect or serious walls to
hold back a major level
change in your yard.
The rule of thumb is –
the higher the retaining
wall, the greater the need
for engineering assistance.
Also get expert advice if
you have clay soil.
Low to medium retaining
walls can be simple do-ityourself jobs, and there
are many Boral products
designed for ease of use
by the average home handy
person. Check brochures for
‘How To’ information, ask
your Boral stockist or call
1300 134 002.
A quick visit to the Boral
Online Retaining Wall
Product Selector will direct
you into the system that
best suits your retaining
wall project needs.
Just click on
www.boral.com.au/odg
The Boral Online Paving
Product Selector can also
help with correct paver
choice – simply answer a few
easy questions about your
project and it will compile
a list of recommendations!
Visit the Boral Online
Paving Product Selector at
www.boral.com.au/odg
Have you any tips for
choosing colours?
For a relaxed atmosphere,
favour simplicity and harmony
in your colour choice. Limit
both the number of colours
used (make sure they go well
together) and the variety of
plants as well.
Colour choice can also affect
the visual size of your area.
If you have a smaller garden,
make it look larger by using
only a small number of colours,
different plant selections and
objects. In this instance, limit
your paving to one solid tone.
When taking the indoors
outside, colour co-ordination
will make both spaces appear
larger and provide a smooth,
visual ‘flow’. So for your
adjacent outdoor area choose
a paver of a similar colour to
your internal flooring.
Depending on the garden’s
theme, raised beds and
retaining walls should be
co-ordinated with pavers
to avoid a disjointed look.
To make this easy, there
is a retaining wall product
to suit every paver in the
Boral range.
Use colours to enhance
your area – pale colours
reflect the light and open
up an area, whereas darker
tones absorb light and
make areas appear smaller.
To see how different
colour combinations can
work together, visit the
Boral Online Mix’n’Match
Colour Selector at
www.boral.com.au/odg
and change the colours of
paving and retaining walls
in three virtual garden
settings. See which colour
combinations you prefer!
How do I lay my
Boral pavers?
The Complete Guide to
Laying Pavers has been
specially produced to
assist you from planning to
completion of your project.
It includes information on
paving patterns, planning,
tools and materials needed,
preparing the site, laying
the pavers, joint filling,
compaction and much more.
This handy brochure is
available by phoning
1300 134 002 or ordering
via our website. It can
also be viewed at
www.boral.com.au/odg
Where can I find my
nearest Boral stockist
to view a display?
Please call 1300 134 002 to
be advised of your nearest
Boral stockist – or visit our
website, follow the prompts
to the Boral Paving and
Retaining Wall Store Locator
and type in your postcode.
Where can I get
assistance with building
Boral retaining walls?
A number of comprehensive
brochures are available to
take you through, step-bystep, how to build a Boral
retaining wall. Order your
‘How To’ brochures by calling
1300 134 002.
Check our website for a stepby-step example of how easy
it is to build a low retaining
wall using Boral Gardenwall®.
www.boral.com.au/odg
Refer to your chosen Boral product
brochures for further details on how
to build your retaining wall.
22
outdoor design guide 2004 | 05
Sitting pretty
Fast find
Once your outdoor area is landscaped, complete your
new favourite spot with furnishings that welcome guests
into your private haven!
a Boral solution for paving and retaining walls
Clay paving
Concrete paving
am
Applications
fe
rd
Sa
da
n
t
®
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a
a
t
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®
®
®
®
®
®
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s
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®
k
ve
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ne
on
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ne
a
ly
ly
pa
er
uc
st
to
w
to
ca
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ic
ip
el
el
s
d
n
e
m
s
s
s
g
g
e
d
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e
l
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an
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Pr
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la
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to
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rin
ro
av
H
C
P
S
A
®
B
S
B
B
S
®
P
Pedestrian (paths,
patios, courtyards)
1
2
4
Domestic driveways
3
Pools 5
Bullnose (for steps and
pool surrounds)
Retaining Wall
®
Plastic fantastic
These super stylish all-weather chairs are
just one example of many now on the market
that are designed for indoor/outdoor use.
Cool, clean and a perfect counterpart to
Stylestone® pavers in Ash White.
Laid back style
This is a cool spot to sit in more ways than one!
The cane lounge features a stunningly modern,
organic shape and has style galore – shown off
to a tee with Stylestone® Kota Green paving.
Cool, calm and collectable
Lending the cool lines of industrial-inspired style,
these stools and matching table are formed from
brushed aluminium strips. They sit on Bringelly®
Salt Safe Almond pavers that complement the
clean lines of the metal and the cobalt blue
terracotta accessories.
e
am
N
t
Features
Maximum wall height (mm)*
®
ne
®
ll
nd
®
e
e
G
ra
*
®*
o
n
®
a
n
e
t
st
w
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to
to
on
on
na
en
hs
hs
od
t
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e
w
st
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m
a
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y
r
P
ti e
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ar
Ra
H
L
Ke
G
He
Py
500
750
640
810
810
800
800
Flat face profile
®
**
1. Handipave® 50mm pavers only.
2. Promenade® 300 x 300 x 50mm
pavers only. Available in
QLD, VIC and SA only.
3. Promenade® can be used
on pool surrounds in NSW
and SA only.
4. Bradstone® cobble range
is suitable for driveways.
5. Concrete paving is suitable for
pool surrounds in NSW only.
* Maximum wall heights in
good soils (gravels, sandy
gravels, crushed sandstone).
Shaped face profile
Caps for steps
Block face size
small
small
small
small
large
large
large
** For higher walls please
contact Boral for information
on building Keystone® or
Pyrmont® retaining walls
with soil reinforcement.
The Boral online Paving
and Retaining Wall Product
Selector can also help with
the correct product choice.
Visit the Boral online
Product Selector at
www.boral.com.au/odg
The easy life
Borrow from nature’s tones to create an inviting
setting for an afternoon’s leisure. A wooden
Adirondack (a classic American garden chair
circa 1900) and a wood-look woven resin
tub chair with matching table are flanked by
the rugged, quarried finish of Heathstone®
garden beds.
A seat in the shade
This rustic Balinese bench seat in hard-wearing
teak is a natural when teamed with lush tropical
plantings and Aspenstone® pavers. Comfy casual
cushions are easily and inexpensively replaced
for a refreshing new look.
Classic lines
Generously scrolled arms and a high, curved back
typify a Lutyens bench from the classic design of
the 19th century British architect Edwin Lutyens.
Built entirely of solid teak, this seating is made to
last – as is the Gardenwall® retaining wall behind!
Teak is known for its resistance to water and
insect damage.
Feeling inspired?
At Boral we’d like to help you with your next steps...
here are some suggestions:
Boral Concrete Pavers
Handipave®
Classicpave®
Promenade®
Stylestone®
Summerset®
Pavescape®
Aspenstone®
Bradstone®
Stoneworks®
Heathstone®
Pyrmont®
Keystone®
Boral Clay Pavers
Bringelly®
Boral Retaining Walls
Litewall®
Gardenwall®
Boral Info
To locate your nearest Boral
stockists, to receive brochures
or to learn more about our
products call 1300 134 002.
Ravenastone®
Boral Stockists
Your local Boral stockist carries
a full range of our brochures and
offers expert, helpful advice.
For your nearest Boral stockist
call 1300 134 002.
www.boral.com.au/odg
Visit our website to see the full
range of Boral products, learn
about the latest trends and
themes, view inspiring projects
and more.
With thanks to Ingrid Villata of Ingrid Villata Designs and to Andrew Barnett of All Together Gardens, phone 0417 252 371 (Sydney metropolitan area only).
Calls charged at local rates. Call charges may be higher from mobile and pay phones. Shade variations can occur from batch to batch. Colours shown
are indicative only and should not be used for final selection. Not all colours are available in every region for each product. See your retailer for
colours available in your region. Products ordered should be chosen from actual product samples current at time of order. Photographs in this
brochure are only representative of Boral products and the appearance and effect that might be achieved by their use. © Copyright Boral Masonry
Limited – all rights reserved 2004. Stoneworks®, Stylestone®, Aspenstone®, Promenade Pavers®, Classicpave®, Handipave®, Pyrmont®, Heathstone®,
Ravenastone® and Litewall® are each a registered trademark of Boral Masonry Limited. Keystone® and Gardenwall® are registered trademarks of
Keystone Retaining Wall Systems, Inc, used under licence by Boral Masonry Limited. Bradstone® is a registered trademark of Aggregate Industries,
used under licence by Boral Masonry Limited. Bringelly®, Summerset® and Pavescape® are registered trademarks of Boral Bricks Pty Ltd.
Stormwood™ is a trademark of Allen Taylor & Co Limited. Boral Bricks Pty Ltd ABN 66 082 448 342. Boral Masonry Limited ABN 13 000 223 718.