What is the best material to fill behind a retaining wall?

• <div><p>Sand and gravel are two suitable options for filling behind a retaining wall. If you’re building your own retaining wall, you’ll complete this part of the process—known as backfilling—after you finish laying the blocks. Make sure not to skip it—otherwise, you could wind up with drainage issues, which can cause your retaining wall to collapse.</p></div>

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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: 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 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>

Q: How tall can a railroad tie wall be?

• <div><p>Generally, a railroad tie retaining wall consisting of a single line of ties should be between <b>3 and 4 feet tall</b>&mdash;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&rsquo;s holding back.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Retaining Wall Installation pros in Lyons Falls, NY

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

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Last update on October 31, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
They installed our water softener promptly and efficiently. They have recommended we upgrade to include carbon filter due how bad our water was. Excellence service would recommend to anyone
Pure Water Source
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Reviewed in April 2025
I added a room on to the back of my house. It require some new gutter installation plus some modified and reworked install. George came recommended from a neighbor. He answered my call promptly and drove over to my property to meet me and discuss solutions. Once we worked out a plan that he...
A & J Seamless Gutter
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Reviewed in August 2023
The installation crew did an excellent job of installing the windows. They also did a great job cleaning up. I am totally satisfied with their work.
New York Sash
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Reviewed in May 2021
Although I sent photos of my current countertops, I was never told it would be an extra charge to remove them, so they did not charge me. However, I ordered a sink and faucet from them also and, as has been done in my previous homes, I assumed they would install the faucet but no, when completed...
J&A Stone Designs Services, Inc.
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Reviewed in January 2017
Excellent, Everyone from sales to installation was very kind and professional. I would highly recommend them.
Ivo Cabinets & Surfaces
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Reviewed in October 2014
They initially came to install a water heater, but while doing it they damaged my wall baseboard. I have called them several times and set up several apointments for them to return and fix this damage but they either don't respond, cancel or show up late. They are very unreliable and I would...
Mile High Heating and Cooling
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Reviewed in April 2013
Before shopping, we did our own research on engineered wood flooring. We knew basically what we wanted and how engineered flooring is made and installed. We are installing the product ourselves in a new construction house. We wanted a quality product at a great price. We got it at Snyders...
SNYDER'S FLOORING
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Reviewed in June 2012
The online experience of ordering the washer and dryer was perfect but Home Depot's delivery was not that good. They told me they didn't have room to take the old appliances even though it was in the contract. They took the washer but we had to remove the dryer ourselves. When Home Depot...
The Home Depot
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Reviewed in November 2010
Several years ago, we went to Inserra's for a new kitchen floor. We chose Inserra's on the recommendation of a friend and we are glad we did. When it came time to replace the carpets in our family room and master bedroom, we went back to Inserra's. Tom, our salesman for both installs, is...
Inserra's Flooring Outlet
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Reviewed in October 2009
They helped me to decide how much of the material I would need for my property. They helped me to know all of the supplies I would need to order. The fencing came with an instructional DVD so that I would know how to install it. Installing the fence was very easy, but once I got my dogs in it...
Best Friend Invisible Fencing
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Noah Lamphear

74 Uncas Road

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

Noah Lamphear

74 Uncas Road

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

7 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

Noah Lamphear is a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our dedicated team of professionals have over 10 years of hands on experience, to provide innovative ideas and suggestions tailored to your projects. Our services are customized to your individual needs, paying close attention to the details of each project that we are involved with. Please feel free to contact us today!

Zehr's Flowers and Landscaping

Zehr's Flowers and Landscaping

Customers say: Quick response

11 local quotes requested

22 years of experience

Zehr's Flowers and Landscaping we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service that we provide to meet the consumers needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

"The crew did an excellent job. They responded to my emails promptly and relayed my messages that I left by phone. They arrived on time as they said they would."

Steve D on May 2025

"The crew did an excellent job. They responded to my emails promptly and relayed my messages that I left by phone. They arrived on time as they said they would."

Steve D on May 2025

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Retaining Wall Installation

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Landscape Yard or Garden Installation

Verified Reviews for Retaining Wall Installation pros in Lyons Falls, NY

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Noah Lamphear

Noah Lamphear

Zehr's Flowers and Landscaping

Zehr's Flowers and Landscaping

Austin's Home Improvement

Austin's Home Improvement

Guardian Services

Guardian Services

Grass Assassins LLC

Grass Assassins LLC

STARR Property Services

STARR Property Services

Ol Knee Property Services

Ol Knee Property Services

Diamond C Excavating & Design

Diamond C Excavating & Design

MR LawnCare & Landscaping

MR LawnCare & Landscaping

Cal Concrete and Paver Systems

Cal Concrete and Paver Systems

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