Replacing a Retaining Wall
If you must use railroad ties in your landscape project, take care to adhere to these handling and placement precautions.
- A
- A
- A
Print Options
CloseE-mail This Page to Your Friends
xSuccess!
A link to %this page% was e-mailed
Q. We need to replace a retaining wall because the railroad ties are disintegrating. How long do railroad ties normally last?
A. Although they're not considered a "green" approach to landscaping, railroad ties are sometimes used for retaining walls because of their density and price. Assuming your wall is well built, it should last several decades.
Although treated railroad ties are an economical solution to building a retaining wall, they are saturated with creosote or other closely related byproducts of burning coal; creosote is considered a probable carcinogen. A few caveats can't be overstated:
We Recommend...
Unused Retaining Wall
An unused area above a retaining wall takes on a park-like setting.
How to Build Retaining Wall Steps
Home-maintenance expert Darcy Westlind tells how to build garden steps next to a retaining wall.
Adding A Creative Wall Dressing
An optical illusion gives this trellis an appearance of depth.
See Also:
From our Sister Sites:
- Build a Retaining Wall (from DIY)
- Building a Retaining Wall (from DIY)
- How to Build a Timber Retaining Wall (from DIY)
Shop Home Decor Products
Shop home decor products from rugs to mirrors, lamps and more
