Table of Contents
A simple way to dress up new railroad ties (ones not treated with creosote) is through the use of paint. Clean the surface of the wood as best you can and allow it to dry thoroughly. Use a paint brush for a more crafty appeal, or a spray can for a smoother finish, and cover it in even coats.
Can you cover a railroad tie retaining wall?
Sod is a great way to cover up your railroad tie retaining wall because it matches the natural look of soil. In order for sod to work, you will need to purchase and install a layer of topsoil on top of the railroad ties so that there’s enough room for the grass roots.
What do they cover railroad ties with?
Softwood is treated, while creosote is the most common preservative for railway ties, preservatives are also sometimes used such as pentachlorophenol, chromated copper arsenate and a few other preservatives. Sometimes non-toxic preservatives are used, such as copper azole or micronized copper.
How do you freshen railroad ties?
If there is surface splintering on the tie, sand or grind it off. If there is rot, sand it away or saw it off. If there are holes in the tie, fill them with spike-hole filler compound, which is specifically meant to fill up holes in railroad ties. Coat the railroad tie in a clear, protective compound.
How long will railroad tie retaining wall last?
If it is constantly exposed to lots of moisture, rain, or water, the wall likely won’t last more than 5 to 7 years. If the wall is simply holding back dirt, etc. it may last 10 to 15 years, or even more.
Can I stain railroad ties?
It is a good idea to stain wooden railroad ties before using them in your project, as the finish will seal the wood and protect it from the elements. Apply a coat of wood conditioner with a brush to ensure the wood absorbs the stain evenly. After the stain has dried, buff the railroad ties with a clean cloth.
What can I use instead of railroad ties for landscaping?
Pressure-treated lumber is the closest alternative to railroad ties for landscaping your garden and creating planters.
Is it safe to use railroad ties for landscaping?
Using railroad ties for garden beds can pose a threat to your soil, pets and children, as well as the food you grow. The wood is preserved by soaking it in creosote, which is composed of over 300 chemicals, many of them toxic and persistent in soil. Exposure to creosote has been shown to cause cancer.
How do you seal old railroad ties?
When cracks or splits are in your railway ties, use a wood filler product to seal those openings. As with all projects that involve wood treated with creosote — as railway ties generally are, take extra precautions to protect your health.
How do you remove railroad ties from the ground?
Pick the soil away from the ends of the top railroad tie on the retaining wall, using a mattock, shovel or similar digging tools. The ends of the railroad ties should be set in the soil to help anchor the wall. Pull the end pieces off the wall after removing the soil.
How do you keep railroad ties in place?
In order to avoid potentially dangerous situations and maintain a neat and orderly appearance, it is necessary to secure old railroad ties or landscape timbers firmly in place. Burying the first row of ties and pounding ample steel spikes or lengths of rebar to hold levels of ties together effectively anchors the ties.
What color are railroad ties?
Creosote-treated timber, like that used for railroad ties and bridges, takes on a gray-brown color after being exposed to the elements.
Do old railroad ties attract termites?
Any wood that is on the ground in your yard will be attractive to worker termites. If you use railroad ties, or some other old wood as a border around your garden or flower bed, consider replacing this wood with stones. If there are any wooden objects in your yard that rest on the ground, pick them up if you are able.
Why do railroad ties last so long?
Treated railroad ties, crossties or wooden sleepers are made primarily from wood and then treated with a preservative so they can last 30 years or more. A railroad track that uses wooden ties treated with creosote preservative runs through the forest.
What is the average lifespan of a railroad tie?
Average life of hardwood ties is 20 to 25 years.” Kevin Haugh, president of CXT Inc., provides somewhat shorter estimates of tie service life: about 40 years for concrete versus a range for wood tie life of from 8-10 years up to 15-25 years dependent on the climate and wood type.
Can you paint over railroad ties?
Painting New Railroad Ties A simple way to dress up new railroad ties (ones not treated with creosote) is through the use of paint. Clean the surface of the wood as best you can and allow it to dry thoroughly. Use a paint brush for a more crafty appeal, or a spray can for a smoother finish, and cover it in even coats.
What does CSX do with old railroad ties?
Old ties are sent off to be thrown out. Some end up in landfills, and some are burned at special power plants that have filtration to capture the creosote (the preserving agent that keeps the tie from rotting.).
Can you use a chainsaw to cut railroad ties?
Using a Chainsaw. Prop your railroad tie up on two pieces of scrap wood. You’ll want to elevate your railroad tie so your chainsaw doesn’t hit dirt or grass underneath it. You can use two pieces of scrap wood set about 3 feet (0.91 m) apart from each other as a stand.
What kind of wood are railroad ties made of?
Many railroads purchase oak and mixed hardwood ties and some buy ties made of softwoods such as south- ern pine, red pine or Douglas-fir as well.
