Full Answer
What can I use instead of a railroad tie?
Alternatives to Railroad Ties. These untreated timbers can be more attractive to the eye, and so may be preferable for such uses as outdoor benches and garden planters. Some of the naturally durable woods that can be used to replace the creosote-soaked logs are redwood, cedar, cypress and black locust.
What size railroad ties do I Need?
You’re best off using railroad ties “as is” – as standard 6-foot and 8-foot timbers. If you’re building something complex, railroad ties might not be for you.
What tools do you use to lift railroad ties?
We also offer tools that make lifting the railroad ties and dragging them easier, like tie tongs. We also offer tie picks which are 3’ axe looking picks that help grabbing the tie and rotating them.
Can railroad ties be used for landscaping?
Over the years railroad ties have been a popular item for outdoor landscaping, probably due to their inexpensive availability and their durability. Still, a large heavy timber covered with a strong petroleum product, creosote, is not the most sightly or healthy addition to your property.
How do you spruce up old 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.
Can you stain or paint 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 do you coat railroad ties with?
Railroad ties are treated with chemical preservatives, such as creosote and chromated copper arsenate.
How do you dress a railroad tie wall?
4 Ways to Cover A Railroad Tie Retaining Wall1) Put sod over it. Sod is a great way to cover up your railroad tie retaining wall because it matches the natural look of soil. ... 2) Line it with stones. ... 3) Cover it with concrete blocks. ... 4)Cedar boards. ... Frequently Asked Questions About Railroad Tie Retaining Walls.
Can 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 long does creosote last in railroad ties?
Kohler and Kunniger (2003) determined creosote levels in ties following 2, 5, 10, and 32 years in service. Although the loss rate early in life was higher, the long term straight line average at 32 years was approximately 32 percent loss.
How much does an 8ft railroad tie weigh?
They range from 100 to 300 pounds. Railroad ties can weigh as much as 200 pounds.
How long does a railroad tie last?
What are treated railroad ties? 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.
What saw to cut railroad ties?
You'll need to elevate your railroad tie when you use a circular saw to cut. You can set up your scrap wood about 3 feet (0.91 m) apart on the ground to lift it up. Make sure the ground is as evenly as possible when using a circular saw. This will make the cutting proceed more quickly, safely, and smoothly.
Can you epoxy railroad ties?
Rather than replacing the entire tie, a tie plugging compound is necessary to strengthen the holding power of spikes to the tie plate and tie. Some traditional tie plugging compounds include polymeric and epoxy foam, wood plugs and granules.
Can you pour concrete over railroad ties?
0:091:41Stairway Built With Concrete And Railroad Ties - Landscaping IdeasYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSimply put a railroad tie in the front. Form around it put another railroad tie at the height youMoreSimply put a railroad tie in the front. Form around it put another railroad tie at the height you need in back of it and work your way up accordingly. And then fill it with concrete.
How do you stain a railroad tie retaining wall?
1:204:53Staining Pressure Treated Wood -- by Home Repair Tutor - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAlways mix continue to mix the woodland elite while you brush it on again back brush. Back brushMoreAlways mix continue to mix the woodland elite while you brush it on again back brush. Back brush this product on to make it look.
How much space should I use for railroad ties?
A common use for railroad ties is lining the base of a fence. Perhaps in your yard you have a 2” space between the bottom of the fence and the ground.
How long is a railroad tie?
Standard railroad ties are 8’ to 8’6 feet long and the dimensions vary but most typical are the 7” tall and 9” wide units. These railroad ties don’t have to be set in only one way. I suggest laying the tie with the height 7 inches on the ground this allows for you to cover 2 more inches for your wall.
Can railroad ties be used for retaining walls?
Railroad ties aren’t only good for retaining walls - the list is almost endless what you can do with railroad ties and we have seen and helped give advice for them all. Garden Beds. Railroad ties are great to use for garden beds or any flower beds. However, we want to warn you about the damaging effect of Creosote.
Can horses get cancer from railroad ties?
Horses that will stand on the railroad ties for hours at a time can absorb the creosote through their hooves, especially mares. If they have horse shoes and are full grown they’re much less prone to this but can still happen and the animal can develop cancer.
Do railroad ties bend?
Railroad ties are very sturdy and very hard, this means they’re not going to bend to adapt to your lawn or rocks you’re placing them on top of. It is crucial that you are placing the railroad ties on top of a surface that is perfectly (well okay not perfect but pretty dang..) level.
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