If you’re thinking of adding to or changing the landscape in your yard or garden, you probably already have a vision of how you’d like it to look and what outdoor building materials you will use. There’s no “perfect” way to build landscaping features – the perfect outcome depends largely on personal preference and the project itself.
The first thing to consider (after design of course) is what materials to use. One of the biggest choices homeowners face is whether or not to use railroad ties or landscape timbers for their outdoor projects. Both have advantages and disadvantages, depending on the situation. Let’s take a look at each.
Railroad Ties
The Pros
Railroad ties are, in a word, iconic. They have a uniquely American ruggedness, conjuring up visions of freight trains barreling across the landscape. They’re also great outdoor building materials because of their natural resilience and size.
Railroad ties are sturdy, nearly impervious to rot and insects, and rarely need to be replaced. Railroad ties are made from all different types of wood, including oak and various other hardwoods, to handle the pressure of 100-ton rail cars riding over them daily. Although you may not know exactly what type of wood you are getting in every tie, you can be sure it will hold up under pressure.
If you need something sturdy and long-lasting – like a retaining wall or garden steps – railroad ties may be right for you. They do, however, come with some drawbacks that preclude them from being the right choice for every project.
The Cons
Railroad ties can be very difficult to work with – that’s why you rarely see small cuts of railroad ties used in outdoor projects. 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.
Railroad ties are treated with creosote oil – a strong preservative made from coal and wood tar – that can make them poisonous to vegetables and a poor choice for projects where bare feet or hands might come into contact with them. If you’re building a