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The lifespan of a retaining wall varies based on its material, installation quality, maintenance, and local climate, with an average range of 20 to 100 years. Retaining walls made from durable materials like concrete, stone, and brick generally last a minimum of 50 years. Concrete walls typically last between 50 and 100 years, while brick can last for over a century in ideal conditions. Timber retaining walls can last from 20 to 40 years, depending on the wood quality, and pressure-treated wood walls average around 30 years. It is important to note that a retaining wall can fail prematurely if it was poorly constructed, for example, with inefficient footings or without necessary rebar reinforcements.

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've decided you'd like to skip the cost of restoring a brick exterior wall after considering whether you should repair or replace brick on your house, you can consider installing fiber cement siding over brick for a cost of $2 to $6 per square foot. When done properly, cement siding over brick offers a durable, low-maintenance option that can actually reduce your home's energy costs. It's also attractive. However, improper installation or installation over heavily compromised brick can cause water damage. 

With foundation walls, the slab on grade and force at the top of the wall is resisted by flooring. With retaining walls, the force at the top of the wall is not resisted.