Here is my problem, we have three houses next to each other that need the old creosote retaining walls replaced. We are looking for 1. inexpensive replacement that has to be approved by Home association. 2. The most important to me, SAFETY, no poisons used.We were told they have to be replaced immediately due to the corosion and possible collaping factor. We are in Tampa, Florida Thank you

How high are the walls? If they are five feet or less in height, retaining walls of precast concrete blocks, made specifically for retaining walls, are practical. If they are higher than five feet, the walls will need to be professionally designed.

The walls are terraced and each are about 3ft.
Do you know roughly, how much per sq ft? I'm originally from NY and I know prices may be higher there for materials and labor?

Thanks so much for the info.

I think your putting the cart before the horse/
You need to check with the association and have them tell you what you can use.
Besides if your paying association dues and this is a common area, why are they not doing it themselves?
Wood is the cheapest, which is why it was there in the first place. The Blocks that Richard talked about work great but require a lot of labor strength to place. They are fairly heavy and require a good properly constructed foundation.
Even if the association says they are not responsible to fix. I would check with a lawyer. As someone who has done work for this type of organization before. I can tell you they will always say its not their problem. What happens it sets precedence if they fix your walls and not everyone else’s. And also most associations hire a management company to maintain the property. They only have a budget that they need to stay under Otherwise if they go over it cuts into their profit at the end of the year.

My husband is the Vice Pres of the Home Association and both the Pres and Treas. are in agreement to replace. An independent engineer is coming this week. I was doing some research, since I need to live with it. I do not want poisioness preservatives around my children , pets and anyone that comess the cheapest, but I don't want to sacrafice health. I'm not sure what kinds of wood. I know the engineer may suggest materials. I just want to be a step ahead. Thanks for any info.

You don't want to use wood at all. That's why I suggested the precast concrete retaining wall blocks. They are available in a few colors and patterns, and will last practically forever if properly installed.

I didn't know there were any hills in Tampa big enough to need retaining walls! At least with the sandy soil, drainage shouldn't be an issue. There is a very good wikipedia entry about retaining walls in general: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retaining_wall

And, not endorsing any one brand, several pictures here of the different styles of block walls Richard is talking about:
http://www.allanblock.com/