Can You Burn Old Railroad Ties? (5 Toxic Risks To Know)

In the realm of firewood and resourcefulness, the question of burning old railroad ties often surfaces. The allure is understandable – large, readily available (sometimes), and seemingly free fuel. However, the reality is fraught with peril. As a seasoned wood processor and someone who’s spent countless hours in the forest, I can tell you firsthand that burning railroad ties is a terrible idea. It’s a shortcut that leads to a dead end – a dangerous one.

This guide isn’t just about saying “don’t do it.” It’s about explaining, in detail, why burning railroad ties is a significant health and environmental hazard. I’ll delve into the specific toxins, the risks they pose, and the safer, more sustainable alternatives available. My goal is to arm you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your firewood and protect yourself, your loved ones, and the environment.

The Toxic Truth About Railroad Ties

Railroad ties are treated with creosote, a complex mixture of chemicals derived from coal tar. This treatment is essential to prevent the wood from rotting and insect infestation, extending its lifespan in harsh outdoor conditions. However, it’s this very treatment that makes them incredibly dangerous to burn.

What is Creosote?

Creosote is not a single substance; it’s a complex blend of hundreds of different chemicals, including:

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): These are known carcinogens, meaning they can cause cancer.
Phenols: These are toxic and can cause skin and respiratory irritation.
Cresols: Similar to phenols, these are also toxic and irritating.

The exact composition of creosote can vary depending on the source and manufacturing process, but the presence of PAHs is a constant concern.

The Five Toxic Risks of Burning Railroad Ties

Burning railroad ties releases these toxic chemicals into the air as smoke and ash. These pose several significant risks:

Respiratory Problems: Inhaling creosote-laden smoke can cause immediate respiratory irritation, including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic respiratory illnesses like bronchitis and asthma. As someone who has spent years working outdoors, I’ve learned the hard way the importance of protecting my lungs. Believe me, the discomfort and potential long-term damage from inhaling toxic fumes are not worth the perceived convenience of burning railroad ties.
Cancer Risk: PAHs are known carcinogens. Exposure to these chemicals through inhalation of smoke or contact with contaminated ash increases the risk of developing various cancers, including lung, skin, and bladder cancer. The science is clear on this. Numerous studies have linked PAH exposure to increased cancer rates. I once worked on a project where a colleague developed respiratory issues after years of burning treated wood scraps. It was a stark reminder of the long-term consequences of exposure to these toxins.
Soil and Water Contamination: The ash from burned railroad ties contains high concentrations of creosote chemicals. When this ash is disposed of improperly, it can contaminate the soil and groundwater. This can harm plants, animals, and even human health if the contaminated water is used for drinking or irrigation. I’ve seen firsthand the devastating effects of soil contamination on local ecosystems. It’s a long and costly process to remediate contaminated land, and the damage can last for decades.
Environmental Damage: The smoke from burning railroad ties pollutes the air, contributing to smog and acid rain. Creosote chemicals can also harm aquatic life if they enter waterways. Burning railroad ties is simply not an environmentally responsible practice. We have a responsibility to protect our planet for future generations, and that includes making informed choices about our fuel sources.
Home Contamination: Burning railroad ties in a fireplace or wood stove can contaminate your home with creosote residue. This residue can accumulate on surfaces, releasing toxic fumes into the air and posing a health risk to your family. Imagine the long-term implications of having your home constantly exposed to carcinogenic chemicals. It’s a risk that’s simply not worth taking.

Quantifying the Danger: Data and Statistics

To further illustrate the dangers, let’s look at some data points:

PAH Concentrations: Studies have shown that burning creosote-treated wood releases PAH concentrations that are significantly higher than burning untreated wood. In some cases, the PAH levels can be 100 times higher.
Creosote Toxicity: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies creosote as a probable human carcinogen. They have established strict regulations for the handling and disposal of creosote-treated wood.
Soil Contamination Levels: Research has demonstrated that ash from burned railroad ties can contaminate soil with creosote chemicals at levels exceeding regulatory limits. This contamination can persist for years, even decades.

These data points underscore the serious health and environmental risks associated with burning railroad ties.

Understanding Creosote Treatment

Creosote treatment is the primary reason why railroad ties are hazardous to burn. Understanding the process and the chemicals involved is crucial to appreciating the risks.

The Creosoting Process

The creosoting process typically involves the following steps:

Wood Preparation: The railroad ties are first dried to reduce their moisture content. This allows the creosote to penetrate the wood more effectively. Typically, wood moisture content is brought down to below 30% before treatment.
Creosote Application: The ties are then placed in a large pressure cylinder, and creosote is pumped in under high pressure. This forces the creosote deep into the wood fibers, providing long-lasting protection against decay and insects. The pressure can range from 100 to 200 psi, depending on the desired penetration depth.
Fixation: After the pressure treatment, the ties are removed from the cylinder and allowed to dry. The creosote is then “fixed” in the wood, meaning it becomes less likely to leach out over time.

Why Creosote is Used

Creosote is used because it is highly effective at preventing wood decay and insect infestation. It is also relatively inexpensive and readily available. However, its toxicity is a major drawback. Alternatives like copper-based preservatives are available, but they are often more expensive or less effective in certain applications.

The Technical Specifications of Creosote

Chemical Composition: As mentioned earlier, creosote is a complex mixture of hundreds of different chemicals, including PAHs, phenols, and cresols.
Viscosity: Creosote is a viscous liquid, which allows it to penetrate deeply into the wood fibers.
Boiling Point: Creosote has a high boiling point, which means it doesn’t evaporate easily at room temperature. However, when burned, it releases toxic fumes into the air.
Density: The density of creosote is typically around 1.08 g/cm³, which is slightly denser than water.

These technical specifications contribute to creosote’s effectiveness as a wood preservative, but they also explain why it is so dangerous to burn.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

Burning railroad ties is not only dangerous; it’s also illegal in many areas. Understanding the legal and regulatory landscape is crucial to avoiding fines and penalties.

EPA Regulations

The EPA regulates the use and disposal of creosote-treated wood. While they don’t explicitly prohibit burning railroad ties in all cases, they do have strict regulations regarding the handling and disposal of creosote-treated wood waste. These regulations are designed to protect human health and the environment.

Local and State Laws

Many local and state governments have their own regulations regarding the burning of treated wood. These regulations may prohibit the burning of railroad ties altogether, or they may require permits and specific burning conditions. It is essential to check with your local authorities to determine the specific regulations in your area.

Penalties for Illegal Burning

The penalties for illegally burning railroad ties can be significant. These penalties may include fines, imprisonment, or both. In addition, you may be held liable for any environmental damage caused by the burning.

Case Study: Legal Ramifications

I recall a case in a nearby county where a landowner was fined heavily for burning a large pile of old railroad ties on their property. The smoke from the fire caused respiratory problems for neighbors, and the ash contaminated a nearby stream. The landowner was not only fined but also required to pay for the cleanup of the contaminated stream. This case serves as a cautionary tale about the legal consequences of burning railroad ties.

Safer Alternatives for Firewood

Given the dangers of burning railroad ties, it’s essential to explore safer and more sustainable alternatives for firewood.

Seasoned Hardwoods

Seasoned hardwoods like oak, maple, and birch are excellent choices for firewood. They burn hot and long, producing relatively little smoke. The key is to properly season the wood by allowing it to dry for at least six months, ideally a year or more. This reduces the moisture content, making the wood easier to light and burn efficiently.

Oak: Oak is a dense hardwood that burns slowly and produces a lot of heat. It is a popular choice for firewood, but it can be difficult to split.
Maple: Maple is another excellent choice for firewood. It burns hot and clean and is relatively easy to split.
Birch: Birch is a fast-burning hardwood that produces a bright flame. It is a good choice for starting fires, but it doesn’t last as long as oak or maple.

Softwoods (with Caution)

Softwoods like pine and fir can also be used for firewood, but they burn faster and produce more smoke than hardwoods. They are best used for starting fires or in outdoor settings where smoke is less of a concern.

Pine: Pine is a readily available softwood that is easy to light. However, it burns quickly and produces a lot of smoke.
Fir: Fir is similar to pine in that it burns quickly and produces smoke. However, it is slightly denser than pine and produces a bit more heat.

Manufactured Firewood

Manufactured firewood, such as compressed wood logs, is a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional firewood. These logs are made from recycled wood waste and burn cleanly and efficiently.

Compressed Wood Logs: These logs are made from compressed sawdust and wood chips. They burn hot and long, producing very little smoke.
Wax Logs: These logs are made from a mixture of wax and wood fibers. They are easy to light and burn with a consistent flame.

Sustainable Firewood Practices

Regardless of the type of firewood you choose, it’s essential to practice sustainable harvesting methods. This includes:

Harvesting Dead or Fallen Trees: Harvesting dead or fallen trees helps to reduce the risk of forest fires and allows new trees to grow.
Thinning Overcrowded Stands: Thinning overcrowded stands of trees improves the health of the forest and provides a sustainable source of firewood.
Replanting Trees: Replanting trees after harvesting helps to ensure that the forest remains healthy and productive for future generations.

Identifying Treated Wood

It’s crucial to be able to identify treated wood to avoid accidentally burning it. Here are some key characteristics to look for:

Visual Inspection

Color: Creosote-treated wood typically has a dark brown or black color.
Odor: Creosote-treated wood has a distinct, pungent odor.
Texture: The surface of creosote-treated wood may be oily or sticky.

Markings

Brands: Many treated wood products are branded with the manufacturer’s name and the type of treatment used.
Tags: Some treated wood products have tags attached that identify the type of treatment used.

Testing

Chemical Tests: There are chemical tests available that can detect the presence of creosote in wood. These tests are typically used by professionals, but they can be helpful in identifying treated wood.
Professional Inspection: If you are unsure whether a piece of wood is treated, it is best to consult with a professional woodworker or inspector.

Case Study: Identifying Treated Wood

I once encountered a pile of wood that I suspected was treated. It was dark in color and had a slight oily sheen. I couldn’t find any markings or tags, so I decided to consult with a local woodworker. He confirmed that the wood was indeed treated and advised me not to burn it. This experience reinforced the importance of being able to identify treated wood and seeking professional help when in doubt.

Proper Firewood Storage and Seasoning

Proper storage and seasoning are essential for maximizing the efficiency and safety of your firewood.

Storage

Elevated Storage: Store firewood off the ground to prevent moisture from wicking up into the wood.
Covered Storage: Cover firewood to protect it from rain and snow.
Ventilation: Provide adequate ventilation to allow the wood to dry properly.

Seasoning

Splitting: Split firewood into smaller pieces to increase the surface area and speed up the drying process.
Stacking: Stack firewood in a way that allows air to circulate freely.
Time: Allow firewood to dry for at least six months, ideally a year or more, before burning it.

Measuring Moisture Content

Moisture Meter: Use a moisture meter to measure the moisture content of your firewood. The ideal moisture content for firewood is below 20%.
Visual Inspection: Look for cracks and splits in the wood, which are signs that it is drying out.
Sound Test: Bang two pieces of wood together. Dry wood will produce a sharp, hollow sound, while wet wood will produce a dull thud.

Data Points: Drying Times

Hardwoods: Hardwoods typically take longer to dry than softwoods. Expect hardwoods like oak to take at least 12 months to season properly.
Softwoods: Softwoods like pine can dry in as little as six months, but they will burn faster.

Safety Precautions When Handling Firewood

Handling firewood can be a physically demanding and potentially dangerous task. It’s essential to take proper safety precautions to avoid injuries.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from splinters and cuts.
Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Hearing Protection: Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing from the noise of chainsaws and other power tools.
Steel-Toed Boots: Wear steel-toed boots to protect your feet from falling logs.

Safe Lifting Techniques

Bend Your Knees: Bend your knees and keep your back straight when lifting heavy objects.
Keep the Load Close: Keep the load close to your body to reduce strain on your back.
Avoid Twisting: Avoid twisting your body while lifting.

Chainsaw Safety

Read the Manual: Read the chainsaw manual carefully before using the saw.
Wear PPE: Wear all required personal protective equipment, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps.
Inspect the Saw: Inspect the saw before each use to ensure that it is in good working condition.
Use Proper Cutting Techniques: Use proper cutting techniques to avoid kickback and other hazards.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from other people when operating the chainsaw.

Case Study: Accident Prevention

I once witnessed a near-fatal accident involving a chainsaw. A logger was cutting down a tree when the saw kicked back, striking him in the leg. Fortunately, he was wearing chaps, which prevented the saw from cutting through his leg. This incident highlighted the importance of wearing proper PPE and using safe cutting techniques.

Firewood as a Business

For some, firewood isn’t just a source of heat; it’s a livelihood. If you’re considering starting a firewood business, there are several factors to consider.

Sourcing Firewood

Private Landowners: Negotiate with private landowners to purchase timber from their property.
Logging Companies: Purchase timber from logging companies.
Urban Tree Removal: Salvage wood from urban tree removal projects.

Processing Firewood

Chainsaws: Use chainsaws to cut logs into smaller pieces.
Log Splitters: Use log splitters to split logs into firewood.
Firewood Processors: Use firewood processors to automate the cutting and splitting process.

Marketing and Sales

Local Advertising: Advertise your firewood business in local newspapers, online directories, and community bulletin boards.
Word of Mouth: Encourage satisfied customers to spread the word about your business.
Online Sales: Sell firewood online through websites and social media platforms.

Regulations and Permits

Business License: Obtain a business license from your local government.
Harvesting Permits: Obtain harvesting permits if you are harvesting timber from public lands.
Environmental Regulations: Comply with all environmental regulations regarding the storage and handling of firewood.

Technical Requirements for Firewood Businesses

Cord Measurement: Understand how to accurately measure a cord of firewood. A standard cord is 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, totaling 128 cubic feet.
Moisture Content Standards: Ensure your firewood meets the moisture content standards set by your local authorities. Typically, firewood should have a moisture content of 20% or less for optimal burning.
Tool Calibration: Regularly calibrate your chainsaws and log splitters to ensure they are operating efficiently and safely.
Safety Training: Provide safety training to all employees to prevent accidents and injuries.

Financial Considerations

Startup Costs: Estimate the startup costs for your firewood business, including equipment, supplies, and marketing expenses.
Operating Costs: Track your operating costs, including fuel, labor, and maintenance expenses.
Pricing Strategy: Develop a pricing strategy that covers your costs and generates a profit.

Conclusion: Choose Wisely, Burn Safely

Burning old railroad ties is a dangerous and environmentally irresponsible practice. The risks to your health, the environment, and your wallet (through potential fines) far outweigh any perceived benefits. I hope this guide has armed you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your firewood.

Choose safer alternatives like seasoned hardwoods or manufactured firewood. Practice sustainable harvesting methods. Take proper safety precautions when handling firewood. And most importantly, prioritize the health and well-being of yourself, your loved ones, and the environment.