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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.

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.

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.

A retaining wall can only function as a fence if it’s high enough on all sides to prevent someone from accidentally falling into the pool. However, most retaining walls retain dirt, which means their purpose is not related to safety. There would need to be nothing on the other side of the wall for it to be considered a fence, but in that case, it wouldn’t retain anything and would cease to be a retaining wall.