With 52 years of experience, Spectrum Pool and Landscape creates highly customized, design-driven outdoor environments—from initial sketches to final touches. Founder Chuck Archuletta personally designs and oversees every project, drawing on a lifetime of hands-on expertise to create spaces that are beautiful, livable, and built to last. Known for his elegant hand-drawn plans, Chuck designs with a refined sense of how people move, gather, and enjoy their space. Spectrum’s work includes pools, spas, outdoor kitchens, fire and water features, California rooms, lighting, decks, arbors, landscaping, turf, irrigation, drainage, concrete, walls, and more. Fully licensed in pool, landscape, and masonry work, Spectrum is based in Alamo, CA and backed by decades of happy clients. Chuck is on site regularly and known for his craftsmanship, integrity, and follow-through.
"I cannot say enough about Spectrum Pool & Lamdscape! John, our project manager, was amazing with creating our backyard Oasis. Chuck, owner of Spectrum Pool & Landscape, is extremely knowledgeable and very kind. This company stands behind their work. I am so thankful we found them! if we could give them more than 5 we would! We were so impressed with their work, we decided to have them also landscape our front yard as well!"
Donna T on February 2024
With 52 years of experience, Spectrum Pool and Landscape creates highly customized, design-driven outdoor environments—from initial sketches to final touches. Founder Chuck Archuletta personally designs and oversees every project, drawing on a lifetime of hands-on expertise to create spaces that are beautiful, livable, and built to last. Known for his elegant hand-drawn plans, Chuck designs with a refined sense of how people move, gather, and enjoy their space. Spectrum’s work includes pools, spas, outdoor kitchens, fire and water features, California rooms, lighting, decks, arbors, landscaping, turf, irrigation, drainage, concrete, walls, and more. Fully licensed in pool, landscape, and masonry work, Spectrum is based in Alamo, CA and backed by decades of happy clients. Chuck is on site regularly and known for his craftsmanship, integrity, and follow-through.
"I cannot say enough about Spectrum Pool & Lamdscape! John, our project manager, was amazing with creating our backyard Oasis. Chuck, owner of Spectrum Pool & Landscape, is extremely knowledgeable and very kind. This company stands behind their work. I am so thankful we found them! if we could give them more than 5 we would! We were so impressed with their work, we decided to have them also landscape our front yard as well!"
Donna T on February 2024
Solves All Engineering is a Class A General Contractor. We specialize in excavation, grading, drainage, and retaining walls. We service residential and industrial clients and pride ourselves on the integrity of our work, open communication with project stakeholders, and our culture of safety and efficiency.
"Matt and Dan completed a second project for me. 55 ft of the stucco/wood sound wall along the front of my property was destroyed in a car accident. No one was hurt, but the force of the car threw a section of the wall 15 ft away. Matt and Dan cleaned up the mess of stucco, wire and wood, and replaced that section with one that matches the rest of the wall. I've had my wall hit several times and Matt and Dan went above and beyond other contractors to be sure that their workmanship was perfect. They even painted a section of the undamaged wall that had some old paint defects."
Randy Y on August 2024
Solves All Engineering is a Class A General Contractor. We specialize in excavation, grading, drainage, and retaining walls. We service residential and industrial clients and pride ourselves on the integrity of our work, open communication with project stakeholders, and our culture of safety and efficiency.
"Matt and Dan completed a second project for me. 55 ft of the stucco/wood sound wall along the front of my property was destroyed in a car accident. No one was hurt, but the force of the car threw a section of the wall 15 ft away. Matt and Dan cleaned up the mess of stucco, wire and wood, and replaced that section with one that matches the rest of the wall. I've had my wall hit several times and Matt and Dan went above and beyond other contractors to be sure that their workmanship was perfect. They even painted a section of the undamaged wall that had some old paint defects."
Randy Y on August 2024
A-Z Pro Landscaping is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"A-to-Z Landscaping is the most honest contractor Iâ ve ever hired. Paul The owner is very experienced and has an outstanding team of workers that are loyal to his company. I cannot stress enough, the experience, professionalism, and good business practices of A-Z Landscaping. They deserve the highest score possible."
Thomas K on May 2024
A-Z Pro Landscaping is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"A-to-Z Landscaping is the most honest contractor Iâ ve ever hired. Paul The owner is very experienced and has an outstanding team of workers that are loyal to his company. I cannot stress enough, the experience, professionalism, and good business practices of A-Z Landscaping. They deserve the highest score possible."
Thomas K on May 2024
Here at Joe's Gardening and Landscaping Services, we pride ourselves on professionalism, attention to detail and a dedication to our clients wants and needs. We will not leave a project until you are 100 percent satisfied. Feel free to give us a call!
"Very professional"
Jacques d on September 2024
Here at Joe's Gardening and Landscaping Services, we pride ourselves on professionalism, attention to detail and a dedication to our clients wants and needs. We will not leave a project until you are 100 percent satisfied. Feel free to give us a call!
"Very professional"
Jacques d on September 2024
We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service, that we provide to meet the consumer's 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. Call us today!
"He finished the sod installation in one day and did follow up on damage to sprinkler system."
Karen H on June 2020
We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service, that we provide to meet the consumer's 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. Call us today!
"He finished the sod installation in one day and did follow up on damage to sprinkler system."
Karen H on June 2020
We offer only the best in quality workmanship and professional courtesy. We specialize in all phases of commercial and residential landscaping. We are committed quality work and outstanding results & are strongly involved in local community activities. We look forward to working with you!
"Ruben is a true professional and an absolute gem! He spent two days meticulously diagnosing issues with our old irrigation system and didn’t stop until everything was working perfectly. He managed to retrofit 30-year-old wiring to connect with a new smart irrigation panel - no small feat! His dedication, technical expertise, and attention to detail really stood out. If you need irrigation work done right, Ruben is the one to call. Highly recommend!"
Vlada K on June 2025
We offer only the best in quality workmanship and professional courtesy. We specialize in all phases of commercial and residential landscaping. We are committed quality work and outstanding results & are strongly involved in local community activities. We look forward to working with you!
"Ruben is a true professional and an absolute gem! He spent two days meticulously diagnosing issues with our old irrigation system and didn’t stop until everything was working perfectly. He managed to retrofit 30-year-old wiring to connect with a new smart irrigation panel - no small feat! His dedication, technical expertise, and attention to detail really stood out. If you need irrigation work done right, Ruben is the one to call. Highly recommend!"
Vlada K on June 2025
EA Home Builders is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"Eric and his EA Homebuilders team remodeled our primary bathroom, which involved moving walls, framing, plumbing, electrical, installing a tile shower, and finishes. I had never worked with them before. Their quote was competitive, their work progressed at a rapid pace, and they finished the project in the timeframe promised. There were 2 occasions where changes needed to be made and they were reasonably accommodated without any nickel-and-diming. Eric is a great communicator and is always asking the customer if they need anything. Working with a contractor for the first time is always a nervous experience, but EA Homebuilders delivered on everything, and they will be invited to bid on all of my future projects."
S.V. V on May 2025
EA Home Builders is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"Eric and his EA Homebuilders team remodeled our primary bathroom, which involved moving walls, framing, plumbing, electrical, installing a tile shower, and finishes. I had never worked with them before. Their quote was competitive, their work progressed at a rapid pace, and they finished the project in the timeframe promised. There were 2 occasions where changes needed to be made and they were reasonably accommodated without any nickel-and-diming. Eric is a great communicator and is always asking the customer if they need anything. Working with a contractor for the first time is always a nervous experience, but EA Homebuilders delivered on everything, and they will be invited to bid on all of my future projects."
S.V. V on May 2025
We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service that we provide to meet every consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent customer service from start to completion of a project. To understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a personal and professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.
"Arrived on time. Courteous, respectful. Cleaned up and removed garbage. Overall very satisfied"
Angela O on May 2025
We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service that we provide to meet every consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent customer service from start to completion of a project. To understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a personal and professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.
"Arrived on time. Courteous, respectful. Cleaned up and removed garbage. Overall very satisfied"
Angela O on May 2025
Ecocon is a high-end home builder and full-service contractor serving the Bay Area, specializing in premium concrete work, expert framing, and sophisticated plumbing and electrical systems. We build custom homes with precision, elegance, and lasting value — blending modern craftsmanship with timeless design. From foundation to finish, Ecocon delivers refined construction solutions tailored to the unique needs of discerning Bay Area homeowners. When you choose Ecocon, you’re choosing quality, integrity, and a seamless building experience.
"To work with these guys as easy. All good things to say. Great communication, great price, great work. Couldn't be more happy with the results. Will be using them for my next project."
Kaleb B on June 2025
Ecocon is a high-end home builder and full-service contractor serving the Bay Area, specializing in premium concrete work, expert framing, and sophisticated plumbing and electrical systems. We build custom homes with precision, elegance, and lasting value — blending modern craftsmanship with timeless design. From foundation to finish, Ecocon delivers refined construction solutions tailored to the unique needs of discerning Bay Area homeowners. When you choose Ecocon, you’re choosing quality, integrity, and a seamless building experience.
"To work with these guys as easy. All good things to say. Great communication, great price, great work. Couldn't be more happy with the results. Will be using them for my next project."
Kaleb B on June 2025
Located in Sacramento and Dublin in the East Bay Area, the Paver Company specializes in all aspects of Paver Stones, Concrete Block and Synthetic Turf. We service the Greater Sacramento & the East Bay Areas including Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, Folsom, El Dorado Hills, Walnut Creek, Pleasanton, Pleasant Hill, Concord, Danville, Blackhawk, Dublin, Livermore and beyond. You can trust The Paver Company to plan, design and install stunning hardscape solutions for your driveway, patio, pool deck, backyard & walkway and more. Reach out to one of our custom paver stone , block or turf experts today for a free consultation and find out how we can make your dreamscape come true.
"Very efficient and excellent workmanship. Good communication skills, keeping us current on progress and exceeding the promised completion date."
John M on August 2023
Located in Sacramento and Dublin in the East Bay Area, the Paver Company specializes in all aspects of Paver Stones, Concrete Block and Synthetic Turf. We service the Greater Sacramento & the East Bay Areas including Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, Folsom, El Dorado Hills, Walnut Creek, Pleasanton, Pleasant Hill, Concord, Danville, Blackhawk, Dublin, Livermore and beyond. You can trust The Paver Company to plan, design and install stunning hardscape solutions for your driveway, patio, pool deck, backyard & walkway and more. Reach out to one of our custom paver stone , block or turf experts today for a free consultation and find out how we can make your dreamscape come true.
"Very efficient and excellent workmanship. Good communication skills, keeping us current on progress and exceeding the promised completion date."
John M on August 2023
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. The creosote treatment in traditional railroad ties helps resist rot and insects, but proper drainage is essential for maximizing longevity. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of minor issues can help extend your wall's useful life.
Creosote-treated railroad ties can pose health risks if used near edible plants or children's play areas. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that creosote may be harmful to humans and wildlife. Many localities restrict or prohibit creosote-treated wood in residential settings. For garden applications, consider alternative materials like recycled plastic composite ties or lumber treated with more garden-friendly preservatives.
The ideal drainage solution depends on your specific site conditions and wall height. For most residential applications, a combination of gravel backfill and perforated drain pipe works effectively.
A complete drainage system costs between $2,100 and $6,500, though basic solutions start at $500. Proper drainage prevents water pressure buildup behind your wall, significantly reducing the risk of failure and extending its useful life.
For walls under four feet tall on relatively flat terrain, you can proceed without engineering services. However, walls exceeding four feet, those on steep slopes, or projects with unusual soil conditions require professional engineering input.
A structural engineer can design appropriate footings and reinforcement to ensure your wall safely handles the lateral soil pressure it will face.
Railroad tie retaining walls start at $15 to $25 per square foot, with most projects averaging $25 to $30 per square foot, depending on complexity and site prep. This makes them more affordable than natural stone or concrete block walls initially.
While vinyl options may cost less upfront ($10 to $15 per square foot), railroad ties offer superior aesthetics and strength. Though they require more maintenance than masonry options, their lower initial cost makes them attractive for many homeowners.