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Q: Does a small retaining wall need a foundation?

• <div><p>Small retaining walls still require a foundation of some kind, typically a concrete footing. This helps to ensure the wall is structurally sound and prevents the ground from shifting over time, especially during those winter freeze/thaw cycles. The footing helps spread the weight of the wall and the load it carries over a larger area of the ground, thus assisting with stability. This is true of small retaining walls, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/rock-garden-ideas.htm">larger rock garden</a> walls, and the like. </p></div>

Q: How long will a railroad tie wall last?

• <div><p>Most railroad tie retaining walls have a life span of <b>20 to 30 years</b>, though you may need to replace your wall sooner if it&rsquo;s repeatedly exposed to heavy rain, runoff, and excess moisture. Railroad ties are typically treated with creosote, which makes them much more durable than untreated wood. Though they last longer, they don&rsquo;t last forever. For the most longevity, make sure your retaining wall has a sturdy base and steel reinforcements. You should also install drainage to direct water away from the wall.</p></div>

Q: What happens if you don't backfill a retaining wall?

• <div><p>If you don&rsquo;t backfill a retaining wall&mdash;either at all or adequately enough&mdash;the wall won&rsquo;t drain well, and water will be able to pass through it. Poor drainage will lead to a warped wall or a buildup of hydrostatic pressure, which can eventually collapse your retaining wall. If you have particularly sloped land, consult a structural engineer to ensure your <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/hardscape-features-bring-value-landscape.htm">hardscaping is adding value to your home</a>.</p></div>

Q: Are railroad ties good for retaining walls?

• <div><p>Railroad ties can be good for retaining walls, but it depends on the area. They have a desirable rustic look and are durable. The problem is they&rsquo;re treated with creosote, a preservative the EPA says poses a risk to humans and wildlife. Over time, the preservative seeps out of the wood and into the ground. Many areas have banned the use of creosote-treated wood on residential properties. If your area does allow it, never use railroad ties near an edible garden or drinking water source. Instead, use wood that&rsquo;s treated with an EPA-approved preservative or a wood-alternative composite material.</p></div>

Q: What is the most cost-effective retaining wall to build?

• <div><p>While vinyl is the least costly material for building a retaining wall, the most cost-effective method is to use wood or concrete blocks for a DIY retaining wall under 2 feet tall. Wood is inexpensive but lasts <b>20 years or more </b>with care. Concrete can cost a little more but is stronger and will last longer with less maintenance.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Retaining Wall Installation pros in Harrison, ID

*The Angi rating for Retaining Wall Installation companies in Harrison, ID is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Retaining Wall Installation needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Retaining Wall Installation companies in Harrison, ID is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Retaining Wall Installation needs.

Last update on June 22, 2026

Reviewed in June 2026
In early May, I contacted Straight Shooter Plumbing because a toilet and bathtub on my property were backing up with sewage. The technician recommended removing the toilet and using an auger to clear the line, which I approved. Shortly afterward, I discovered the technician had broken my shop...
Straight Shooter Plumbing and Rooter LLC
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Reviewed in December 2025
Cole did an awesome job installing a tankless water heater in a home where it was difficult to find a suitable installation location. His pricing was fair & he is a pleasant person to work with. 5-Stars.
Buckaroo Plumbing
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Reviewed in September 2024
Eduard, the owner of E&E Electric transformed my spec home into one that people think was custom built home upon entry. I had him either change existing fixtures or install new circuits, chandeliers and switches literally in every room. The best thing about the entire two week job was that...
E & E Electric LLC
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Reviewed in January 2024
Service requested: Installation of new windows and sliding glass door. Quality: Anderson Windows are of the the highest quality; the glass is so clear it's as there is no glass and the frames/seals are first rated. Value: In maintaining a property especially one in a remote location it...
Renewal by Andersen of Washington
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Reviewed in July 2022
We are very satisfied with the new composite deck and cable railing installed by Bugle Construction. The finished product has exceeded our expectations! Mike was easy to work with from doing site survey and understanding what we wanted to have done, to providing an estimate and providing status...
Bugle Construction JMJ, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2022
I spent 12 years on the real state field and I flipped the remodel of 17 high end homes and I would put James on the top of my list for cabinets installation, I have work with many providers but James is a really good professional
James Willard Finley
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Reviewed in September 2021
We were somewhat skeptical that these windows could justify the cost and meet the workmanship and efficacy our salesman claimed, but our expectations were exceeded with the way our job turned out. We had a large job (33 windows) our installers (Jared Boesl, Kyle Boesl, AJ Sebek and Dustin...
Renewal by Andersen of Washington
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Reviewed in May 2021
Due to covid etc there was delay in getting materials but it was ok since weather was better later. All through this I was kept informed of progress. Installation was just completed and it is beautiful.
Fireside Windows, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2021
Timely response to initial inquiry and then stayed in contact. Stayed on schedule. The quality of work was more than we could expect. Matt listened to what we wanted, gave us options, and made it happen. Installed new hardwood floors to match existing hardwood and then refinished old floors...
Character Hardwood Floors
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Reviewed in August 2018
The technician was polite and cleaned up the area after the mitigation fan installation. He was proactive and pointed out plumbing deficiencies he observed while working. I was very grateful as it eliminated a potential crisis situation.
Aqua-Max of Maine
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Find Retaining wall installation pros in Harrison

JW Masonry LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Harrison, ID and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2001

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"I could not be happier with the work that Jeff and his team at J. W. Masonry did on my pavers. They were professional, friendly, and kind. The work was done in a timely manner, and my patio looks great."

+21

17 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by60%of homeowners

Serving Harrison, ID and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Performed the job of rebuilding our river retaining wall. The job was properly bid, completed on time and performed to satisfaction.I would recommend them to anyone."

Response time4 hrs

Response rate94%

7 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Harrison, ID and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"This was the best experience with a contractor I have ever had. Andrew made the process run very smoothly and stress free."

Response time1 day

20 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by88%of homeowners

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Capital Concrete and Asphalt, LLC

4.1(

227

)

Serving Harrison, ID and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2003

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"THE ROCKHARD TEAM, ARE AWESOME TM!! DANIEL’s Company did a SUPER JOB, WILL REALLY RECOMMEND THEM if anyone needs some CONCRETE WORK DONE ! A-OK,,MANY THANK YOUs ,2 everyone @ROCK HARD CONCRETE!!Keep up the good work Men!! EVERYONE SAFETY 1st !! GREAT WORK!!!"

+87

Response time1 day

Response rate88%

185 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Inland Northwest Contracting, LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Harrison, ID and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"They did a excellent job"

Response time10 hrs

19 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Harrison, ID and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Customers say: Quick response

"I can't say enough about the guy!! He is a man of his word and has great pricing. He is very punctual and I don't know why anyone would go anywhere else!"

14 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Harrison, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Shea did a great job. He was knowledgeable and listened to my concerns. The job was done promptly. I will use him again and recommend him as well."

+18

Response time7 hrs

Response rate100%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Matterhorn Landscaping

5.0(

)

Serving Harrison, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Patrick did a very good job responded promptly showed up and got my irrigational lines repaired on multiple occasions. I am a electrical contractor and we damage a couple in some of our projects and he was able to get there and get them fixed in a very timely fashion."

Response time2 days

Response rate100%

Recommended by45%of homeowners

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Welling Excavation & Landscaping, LLC

4.6(

)

Serving Harrison, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Fast friendly and reasonable. Quality work I will be using them through the season"

Response time2 days

Recommended by90%of homeowners

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Big Red’s Landscaping/Yard Care

4.6(

)

Serving Harrison, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"The 2 of them busted their a?? to get job done in 2 days, great attitudes"

+11

Response time11 hrs

Response rate100%

Recommended by93%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 31

Retaining Wall Installers questions, answered by experts

Small retaining walls still require a foundation of some kind, typically a concrete footing. This helps to ensure the wall is structurally sound and prevents the ground from shifting over time, especially during those winter freeze/thaw cycles. The footing helps spread the weight of the wall and the load it carries over a larger area of the ground, thus assisting with stability. This is true of small retaining walls, larger rock garden walls, and the like.

Most railroad tie retaining walls have a life span of 20 to 30 years, though you may need to replace your wall sooner if it’s repeatedly exposed to heavy rain, runoff, and excess moisture. Railroad ties are typically treated with creosote, which makes them much more durable than untreated wood. Though they last longer, they don’t last forever. For the most longevity, make sure your retaining wall has a sturdy base and steel reinforcements. You should also install drainage to direct water away from the wall.

If you don’t backfill a retaining wall—either at all or adequately enough—the wall won’t drain well, and water will be able to pass through it. Poor drainage will lead to a warped wall or a buildup of hydrostatic pressure, which can eventually collapse your retaining wall. If you have particularly sloped land, consult a structural engineer to ensure your hardscaping is adding value to your home.

Railroad ties can be good for retaining walls, but it depends on the area. They have a desirable rustic look and are durable. The problem is they’re treated with creosote, a preservative the EPA says poses a risk to humans and wildlife. Over time, the preservative seeps out of the wood and into the ground. Many areas have banned the use of creosote-treated wood on residential properties. If your area does allow it, never use railroad ties near an edible garden or drinking water source. Instead, use wood that’s treated with an EPA-approved preservative or a wood-alternative composite material.

While vinyl is the least costly material for building a retaining wall, the most cost-effective method is to use wood or concrete blocks for a DIY retaining wall under 2 feet tall. Wood is inexpensive but lasts 20 years or more with care. Concrete can cost a little more but is stronger and will last longer with less maintenance.

The Harrison, ID homeowners’ guide to retaining wall installation services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Haley Nothstein
•
Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 2026
How Much Does a Retaining Wall Cost to Build? [2026 Data]
Kick erosion to the curb with an eye-catching retaining wall. Retaining wall costs vary based on the material, but this guide will help you budget.
Kyle Schurman
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Do Retaining Wall Repairs Cost? [2026 Data]
Retaining wall repair cost can vary widely based on the age and condition of the wall being restored. Learn why finding the right pro is important for getting the job done.
Angi
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does a Concrete Retaining Wall Cost? [2026 Data]
Find out how much a concrete retaining wall costs. Get average prices, cost factors, and expert tips to budget and save on your installation.
Christopher Murray
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Who to Hire to Build a Retaining Wall: A Complete Guide
While it’s possible to DIY build a retaining wall, several pros have advanced knowledge of hardscaping and building. Learn who to hire to build a retaining wall.
Ginny Bartolone
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
20 Retaining Wall Ideas for Your Yard
There is no one-size-fits-all retaining wall for your yard. In fact, the options are endless. Check out 20 retaining wall ideas to upgrade your hardscape.
Dan Simms
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
6 Retaining Wall Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Professional
Replacing a retaining wall or installing a new one after grading? Here are some retaining wall questions you should be prepared to answer when hiring a pro.