ALL ABOUT RAILROAD TIES: USES, ALTERNATIVES, & FAQS

The use of railroad ties dates back to the beginning of America’s steam train history in the 1830s. These heavy blocks of wood were the backbone of railways for almost 2 centuries.

Discover all there is to know about these important railroad materials, including their uses, modern railroad tie alternatives, and even how to repurpose them on your property!

What Are Railroad Ties?

Railroad ties, sometimes referred to as “cross-ties” or “sleepers,” are the heavy slabs of wood or concrete that sit beneath the rails that secure the tracks in the ground. They are positioned perpendicular to the steel tracks and anchored in place by railroad spikes. 

Their main purpose is to keep the track gauge and elevation consistent along the entire length of the line.   

What Are Railroad Ties Made Of?

Historically, railroad ties were made of wood, not only because it was the easiest and most inexpensive material to source, but also because of its inherent strength and durability. 

The wood gave railroads a certain flexibility that helped absorb the shock of the locomotive’s weight, which helped reduce derailments and general wear-and-tear of the tracks. 

What Are Railroad Ties Treated With?

While lumber is inherently strong, untreated wood can easily rot and decay when exposed to the moisture and extreme temperatures. This was an obvious safety (and cost) concern for railroad companies, who would had to replace the damaged wood every few years.  

By the 1870s, railroad companies pivoted to installing creosote-treated ties. Creosote is a toxic, tar-like by product of coal processing that has been used to protect railroad ties from the outdoor elements — weather, infestation, decay — since the mid-to-late 1800s. 

It’s the same sealant that is used today on utility poles, docks, and beach piers to maintain the wood’s structural integrity from termites, fungi, and other pests. 

Treating wood with creosote can dramatically impact the lifespan of wooden cross-ties to an average of 15 years.

What Are Some Modern Railroad Tie Alternatives?

Despite its toxicity and relatively short lifespan, creosote-treated wooden ties still make up the majority of railways in the United States. They take up between 90-93% of the market share, according to the Railway Tie Association. 

But, there are some railroad tie alternatives that are used in newer or recently repaired tracks: 

1. Concrete

Concrete ties are, arguably, the most common railroad tie alternative across the US. They’ve been used periodically over the last two decades because they are durable and require less maintenance than wood. 

Unlike wood, concrete ties are much heavier and more expensive, making them more difficult to install. Yet, they’re still incredibly durable and require less maintenance. They are incredibly durable and require less maintenance than wood, but cost significantly more per unit. 

2. Steel

Steel is a popular railroad tie alternative material in countries across the globe. Many countries prefer steel because it’s easier to transport and install, but American operators are slow to adopt.

The steel-on-steel railroad tie and track combination can disrupt the train’s electrical signals, which keep them running safely. This safety concern, paired with the cost, makes US rail crews apprehensive to choose steel over creosote-treated or concrete ties.

3. Composite

Composite ties, made from recycled and virgin plastics and reinforced with high-strength fibers like glass, carbon, or steel, can last for up to 50 years. They don’t contain any harmful chemicals like creosote, which makes them a safer alternative for the environment and the railroad workers who handle them. 

Yet, US railroad companies still prefer the latter materials because of the composite ties’ cost and reliability. They’ve been carefully engineered and tested to resemble the strength and stiffness of wood, but ultimately, rail crews still have concerns that composite cross-ties are less reliable. 

What Are Some Uses For Old Railroad Ties?

After old, wooden railroad ties are replaced, many railroad companies will resell them for landscaping purposes. They’ve been used to create raised flower boxes, retaining walls, garden steps, and simple area dividers on many properties. 

However, it’s important to remember that most of the wood was treated with creosote, so old railroad ties should be used sparingly around edible gardens, play areas, or any other projects where you could be in direct contact with these harmful chemicals. 

If you like the look of rustic railroad ties on your property, but don’t want the hazard of harmful chemicals seeping into your property, natural landscaping timber is a great alternative. 

Large retailers like Home Depot sell treated timber that resembles real railroad ties. 6”x6”x10’ posts are the best railroad tie alternative for achieving a similar, but safer look. 

Want to learn more about the rich history of railroading? Visit Strasburg Rail Road, America’s oldest continuously operating railroad, to climb aboard a historic, fully-restored steam locomotive.