On this episode of All About Home Construction, we’re talking about two popular (and very different) materials used to build retaining walls and fight erosion: gabion walls and recycled railroad ties.

We’ll break down:

• What gabion walls are and why they’re a smart, modern solution for drainage and slope control

• How to build a gabion wall, what materials you’ll need, and where they work best

• The pros and cons of using recycled railroad ties in your landscape

• Why creosote-treated wood may pose health and environmental concerns

• Safer alternatives for retaining walls that still look great and perform well

Whether you’re trying to tame a hillside, stop soil erosion, or just want a unique aesthetic in your yard, this episode will help you choose the right material for the job—and avoid costly mistakes.