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Verified Reviews for Retaining Wall Installation pros in Thomson, IL

*The Angi rating for Retaining Wall Installation companies in Thomson, IL 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 Thomson, IL 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 March 05, 2026

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Avatar for JB Concrete and Remodeling LLC
JB Concrete and Remodeling LLC
5.0(
1
)
Retaining Wall - Install

Serving Thomson, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2001

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Had them do a sidewalk and front steps. Turned out great. Super friendly. Very happy with the results. Would recommend."
side walk & Driveway
House Foundation
4 neighbors recently requested a quote
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Avatar for SAH Construction
SAH Construction
5.0(
2
)
Retaining Wall - Install

Serving Thomson, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Scott did a great job. The lions share of the work was a new poor in a garage that was dirt and pea gravel. It wasn't easy working in the smaller garage with a low roof. Other work was an alleyway between that garage and my main garage along with a landing from my main garage and having to match up to the ramp up to house along with driveway pavement. So three different levels to match up to and Scott did a great job."
Response time10 hrs
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Retaining Wall Installers questions, answered by experts

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.

Costs range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on size, material, and design complexity.

Generally, a railroad tie retaining wall consisting of a single line of ties should be between 3 and 4 feet tall—and the height often tops out at around 6 feet. You can go taller, but you may need additional footings and reinforcements, including a second layer of railroad ties to support the added weight of the soil it’s holding back.

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.

Poured concrete is often the cheapest material for a retaining wall, costing around $6 to $8 per square foot. Other budget-friendly options include vinyl and landscaping timbers, which range from $10 to $15 per square foot; landscaping timbers are particularly well-suited for DIY projects. Untreated timber and railroad ties are a step up in price, starting at $15 to $25 per square foot. Natural stones can also be a cost-effective choice if you can source them from your own property, but they can be expensive to purchase. High-end materials like steel are typically the most expensive but offer superior durability and aesthetics.

The Thomson, IL homeowners’ guide to retaining wall installation services

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

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