Question
I am looking for used railroad ties to build a retaining wall.  I know Home Depot and some others sell them, but they are all gouged and cracked and only stock about half a dozen or so.  (I know that goes with the definition of used), but is there any seller in San Diego county that has that has a larger quantity from which I can pick and choose?

Answer
Hey, BJ.

Any large piece of lumber will be "gouged and cracked" after it dries. When the lumber is cut, it has about 40-50% moisture content in it. When it dries, it has about 5-15% moisture content, closer to 5% here in San Diego. As with anything that is large when wet, it will shrink and crack as it dries.

If you're going to build a retaining wall, simply let the best side face outwards. Out of four sides, there's always one that is acceptable to be seen.

Home Depot should be able to order as many as you need, but you might also call the local office of the BNSF Railroad and see if they have a system for selling old railroad ties to the public. Some railroads do, or used to. You might find their used tie stockyard where you can go pick and choose.