The choice of material you choose to build your ideal retaining wall solution will depend to some degree on what you want it to look like. Shape and texture play the two key roles in this decision. Various materials from stone to wood can be used in the construction of retaining walls.

Choosing to construct a timber retaining wall is a great option for reshaping a sloped yard. It can lend a real presences and identity within your garden area. It’s important to remember that some materials can be used to create curves; but a retaining wall made of timber will be straight. So you need to factor this in when surveying the area that requires a retaining wall. There is much less flexibility in design with wood retaining walls.

The cost to build a timber retaining wall will vary depending on the type of wood you use. Treated timber such as pine is going be more economical than other woods. For example, an average price range for materials and labour for a treated pine wall is $250 to $350 per square metre. Choosing to go with a hardwood in the form treated timbre sleepers, you can look at a range of $300 to $450 per square metre for materials and labour.

When choosing the kind of wood to use, consider the environment that the wood will have to exist in. A hardwood is a much better choice if you are dealing with ground water and the prospect of water contact with the wood.

With that said, the best choice of lumber for walls that need to sustain water contact is Douglas fir pressure treated with preservatives, which also discourages rot, extending it’s lifespan. It comes in brown or green in color and is also rated for earth-to-wood contact. Large timbers can be very expensive, and may make a project cost-prohibitive. Many homeowners choose to go with railroad ties are a common alternative.

A major factor to consider is the lifespan of a timber retaining wall. On the average treated timber can last up to 40 years. That’s a long time. However, there's really no limit on the life span of properly installed concrete or masonry retaining walls. It comes down to cost, need and preferences.

We’d love to chat with you about your retaining wall project.  Just give us a call at (902) 706-8145 or request a quote to get your project started today!