Can You Burn Old Rotted Railroad Ties? (5 Toxic Woodburning Facts)

Living a smart life often means making the most of what we have, being resourceful, and thinking sustainably. For many of us, that includes heating our homes with wood. But what about those old, weathered railroad ties you might stumble upon? The question, “Can you burn old rotted railroad ties?” seems simple, but the answer is far more complex than a quick yes or no. It dives into the heart of responsible wood burning and the potential hazards lurking within seemingly harmless pieces of wood. As someone who’s spent years felling trees, processing timber, and relying on wood for heat, I’ve learned firsthand that not all wood is created equal. Burning the wrong kind can have serious consequences. Let’s explore the five toxic wood-burning facts surrounding railroad ties and why you should think twice before tossing them into your wood stove.

The Allure and the Danger: Why Railroad Ties Tempt Wood Burners

Railroad ties are often seen as readily available, large pieces of wood – seemingly perfect for a long, hot burn. They’re dense, heavy, and give the impression of being a free or cheap source of fuel. I understand the temptation. I remember when I first started out, I was always looking for ways to cut costs and maximize my wood supply. But experience has taught me that some savings aren’t worth the risk.

The problem with railroad ties lies in their treatment. To withstand the harsh conditions of supporting train tracks – constant vibration, moisture, and insect attacks – they’re heavily treated with preservatives, primarily creosote. This is where those “toxic wood-burning facts” come into play.

5 Toxic Wood-Burning Facts About Railroad Ties

1. Creosote: The Silent Threat

Creosote is the main culprit. It’s a complex mixture of chemicals derived from coal tar, and it’s incredibly effective at preventing wood rot and insect infestation. However, when burned, creosote releases harmful chemicals into the air, posing significant health risks.

• Health Hazards: Exposure to creosote smoke can cause respiratory irritation, skin and eye irritation, and even more severe health problems with prolonged exposure. These chemicals are known carcinogens, meaning they can increase the risk of cancer.
• Environmental Impact: Burning creosote-treated wood releases pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution and potentially harming local ecosystems.
• Chimney Buildup: Creosote condenses in your chimney as it cools, forming a highly flammable substance. This buildup significantly increases the risk of chimney fires, potentially endangering your home and family. I’ve seen firsthand the devastation a chimney fire can cause, and it’s a risk you simply can’t afford to take.

2. Arsenic and Other Heavy Metals

While creosote is the primary concern, railroad ties can also contain other heavy metals like arsenic, copper, and chromium, depending on the specific treatment used. These metals are incredibly toxic and can contaminate the air and soil if burned.

• Soil Contamination: Ash from burning treated wood can leach heavy metals into the soil, potentially contaminating gardens and water sources.
• Inhalation Risks: Inhaling these heavy metals can lead to a range of health problems, including neurological damage and organ failure.
• Long-Term Effects: The effects of heavy metal exposure can be cumulative, meaning they build up in the body over time and can cause long-term health problems.

3. Illegal in Many Areas

Burning railroad ties is illegal in many areas due to the environmental and health risks associated with it. These regulations are in place to protect public health and the environment.

• Local Ordinances: Check your local ordinances and regulations regarding wood burning. Many municipalities have specific rules about what types of wood can be burned and restrictions on open burning.
• EPA Regulations: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also has regulations regarding wood-burning appliances and emissions. Burning treated wood can violate these regulations and result in fines or penalties.
• Consequences of Non-Compliance: Ignoring these regulations can lead to hefty fines, legal action, and potential liability for any damages caused by the pollution.

4. Damage to Your Wood Stove or Fireplace

Burning railroad ties can damage your wood stove or fireplace due to the corrosive nature of the chemicals released.

• Corrosion: The chemicals in creosote and other preservatives can corrode metal components in your stove or fireplace, reducing their lifespan and efficiency.
• Inefficient Burning: Treated wood doesn’t burn as cleanly as natural wood, leading to more smoke and less heat. This can reduce the efficiency of your wood-burning appliance and increase your fuel consumption.
• Safety Hazards: Damaged stoves or fireplaces can pose safety hazards, such as carbon monoxide leaks or structural failures.

5. False Economy: The True Cost of Burning Railroad Ties

While railroad ties might seem like a cheap source of fuel, the long-term costs far outweigh any potential savings.

• Health Costs: The potential health problems associated with burning treated wood can lead to significant medical expenses.
• Environmental Cleanup: If you contaminate your property or your neighbor’s property with pollutants from burning treated wood, you could be liable for the cost of environmental cleanup.
• Legal Fees: Facing fines or legal action for violating wood-burning regulations can be expensive.
• Equipment Repair: Replacing corroded or damaged wood-burning appliances can be a significant expense.
• Peace of Mind: The stress and anxiety associated with knowing you’re potentially harming your health and the environment is a cost you can’t put a price on.

Understanding Wood Anatomy and Properties

To fully appreciate why burning railroad ties is a bad idea, it’s essential to understand the basics of wood anatomy and properties. Wood is a complex material composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and extractives.

• Cellulose: The main structural component of wood, providing strength and rigidity.
• Hemicellulose: A type of carbohydrate that binds cellulose fibers together.
• Lignin: A complex polymer that provides rigidity and resistance to decay.
• Extractives: Substances such as resins, tannins, and oils that contribute to wood’s color, odor, and resistance to decay.

The density, moisture content, and chemical composition of wood all affect its burning characteristics. Hardwoods, like oak and maple, are denser and burn longer than softwoods, like pine and fir. Properly seasoned wood, with a moisture content of 20% or less, burns more efficiently and produces less smoke than green wood.

Treated wood, like railroad ties, has been chemically altered to resist decay and insect infestation. These chemicals change the wood’s burning characteristics, making it more dangerous to burn.

Logging Tool Selection and Maintenance Best Practices

While we’re on the subject of wood and its processing, it’s a good time to discuss the tools we use to harvest and prepare firewood. Whether you’re felling trees in the forest or splitting logs in your backyard, using the right tools and maintaining them properly is crucial for safety and efficiency.

• Chainsaws: A chainsaw is an indispensable tool for felling trees and cutting logs into manageable lengths. Choose a chainsaw that’s appropriate for the size of the trees you’ll be cutting and your level of experience. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, and cut-resistant chaps. Sharpen your chainsaw chain regularly to ensure efficient cutting and reduce the risk of kickback. I always recommend investing in a quality chain sharpener; it pays for itself in the long run.
• Axes and Mauls: Axes and mauls are used for splitting logs. An axe is best for splitting smaller logs, while a maul is better for splitting larger, tougher logs. Choose an axe or maul with a comfortable handle and a weight that you can swing comfortably. Keep your axe or maul sharp to ensure efficient splitting.
• Log Splitters: A log splitter can make the job of splitting firewood much easier, especially if you’re dealing with large quantities of wood. There are two main types of log splitters: hydraulic and manual. Hydraulic log splitters are more powerful and can split larger logs, while manual log splitters are more affordable and portable.
• Wedges and Sledges: Wedges and sledges are used to split particularly tough or knotty logs. Drive the wedge into the log with the sledgehammer to split it apart.
• Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear when working with wood, including gloves, eye protection, and sturdy boots.

Chainsaw Maintenance: A Personal Anecdote

I learned the importance of chainsaw maintenance the hard way. Early in my wood-cutting days, I neglected to properly sharpen my chain. One day, while felling a particularly large oak, my chain grabbed and kicked back, throwing the saw back at me. Thankfully, I was wearing chaps, which stopped the chain from cutting my leg. That experience taught me a valuable lesson about the importance of safety and proper tool maintenance.

Firewood Seasoning Techniques and Safety Considerations

Once you’ve harvested your wood, it’s essential to season it properly before burning it. Seasoning reduces the moisture content of the wood, making it burn more efficiently and produce less smoke.

• Stacking: Stack your firewood in a single row, off the ground, and under a cover to protect it from rain and snow. Leave space between the rows to allow for air circulation. I prefer stacking my wood on pallets to keep it off the ground and prevent rot.
• Drying Time: Allow your firewood to season for at least six months, and preferably a year or more. The longer you season your wood, the drier it will become and the better it will burn.
• Moisture Meter: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of your firewood. Properly seasoned firewood should have a moisture content of 20% or less.
• Safety Considerations: Be aware of the risks of spontaneous combustion when storing large quantities of firewood. Keep your firewood stack away from buildings and other flammable materials.

The Science of Seasoning: Moisture Content Dynamics

The key to successful firewood seasoning is understanding moisture content dynamics. Green wood can have a moisture content of 50% or more, while properly seasoned wood should have a moisture content of 20% or less. The drying process involves evaporation of water from the wood cells.

• Factors Affecting Drying Rate: The drying rate depends on several factors, including the type of wood, the size of the logs, the climate, and the stacking method.
• Optimal Conditions: The best conditions for seasoning firewood are warm, dry, and windy weather.
• Splitting Before Seasoning: Splitting logs before seasoning them can significantly reduce the drying time.
• End Checking: As wood dries, it shrinks, which can cause cracks to form, especially at the ends of the logs. These cracks, known as end checks, can help to speed up the drying process by increasing the surface area exposed to the air.

Project Planning and Execution: From Tree to Firewood

Turning a standing tree into a pile of seasoned firewood requires careful planning and execution. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Assess Your Needs: Determine how much firewood you’ll need for the winter. A typical home might use 3-5 cords of wood per year, depending on the climate and the efficiency of the wood stove.
2. Source Your Wood: Obtain permission to cut wood from a private landowner or obtain a permit from a government agency.
3. Felling: Fell the trees safely, using proper techniques and safety gear.
4. Limbing and Bucking: Remove the branches and cut the logs into manageable lengths.
5. Splitting: Split the logs into smaller pieces.
6. Stacking: Stack the firewood in a single row, off the ground, and under a cover.
7. Seasoning: Allow the firewood to season for at least six months, and preferably a year or more.
8. Burning: Burn the seasoned firewood in a safe and efficient wood stove or fireplace.

Case Study: My Firewood Project

Last year, I undertook a firewood project to supply my home with heat for the winter. I started by obtaining a permit to cut wood from a local forest. I carefully selected trees that were diseased or damaged, ensuring that I was harvesting wood sustainably. I felled the trees using my chainsaw, limbed and bucked the logs, and split them using a combination of an axe and a log splitter. I stacked the firewood on pallets in a sunny location, covered it with a tarp, and allowed it to season for a year. By the time winter arrived, the wood was perfectly seasoned and burned beautifully in my wood stove.

Hardwood vs. Hardwoods and softwoods have different properties that affect their burning characteristics.

• Hardwoods: Hardwoods, like oak, maple, and ash, are denser than softwoods and contain more energy per unit volume. They burn longer, produce more heat, and create less smoke than softwoods. Hardwoods are generally the preferred choice for firewood.
• Softwoods: Softwoods, like pine, fir, and spruce, are less dense than hardwoods and contain less energy per unit volume. They burn faster, produce less heat, and create more smoke than hardwoods. Softwoods can be used for firewood, but they’re best suited for starting fires or for burning in mild weather.

Fuel Value Ratings: BTU Content

The fuel value of wood is typically measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) per cord. A BTU is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. The higher the BTU content of wood, the more heat it will produce when burned.

Here’s a comparison of the BTU content of some common firewood species:

• Oak: 20-28 million BTU per cord
• Maple: 20-25 million BTU per cord
• Ash: 20-24 million BTU per cord
• Birch: 20 million BTU per cord
• Pine: 12-18 million BTU per cord
• Fir: 12-16 million BTU per cord

As you can see, hardwoods generally have a higher BTU content than softwoods.

Manual vs. Hydraulic Log Splitters: A Detailed Comparison

Splitting logs by hand can be a challenging and time-consuming task, especially if you’re dealing with large quantities of wood. Log splitters can make the job much easier and more efficient. There are two main types of log splitters: manual and hydraulic.

• Manual Log Splitters: Manual log splitters are powered by human muscle. They typically consist of a lever that drives a wedge into the log. Manual log splitters are more affordable and portable than hydraulic log splitters, but they require more physical effort.
• Hydraulic Log Splitters: Hydraulic log splitters are powered by a hydraulic pump. They can split logs much faster and with less effort than manual log splitters. Hydraulic log splitters are more expensive and less portable than manual log splitters, but they’re a good choice if you’re splitting large quantities of wood or dealing with particularly tough logs.

Here’s a comparison of the pros and cons of manual and hydraulic log splitters:

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Investing in a Log Splitter

Deciding whether to invest in a log splitter depends on several factors, including the amount of firewood you split each year, your physical condition, and your budget.

• Break-Even Point: Calculate the break-even point by comparing the cost of a log splitter to the cost of hiring someone to split your firewood. If you split a large amount of wood each year, a log splitter may pay for itself in a few years.
• Time Savings: Consider the time savings associated with using a log splitter. A log splitter can significantly reduce the amount of time it takes to split firewood, freeing up your time for other tasks.
• Physical Strain: If you have back problems or other physical limitations, a log splitter can reduce the physical strain associated with splitting firewood.

Current Industry Statistics and Data Points

The wood-burning industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and regulations emerging all the time. Here are some current industry statistics and data points to keep in mind:

• Wood Stove Sales: Wood stove sales have been increasing in recent years, driven by rising energy costs and a growing interest in sustainable heating options.
• EPA Regulations: The EPA has been tightening regulations on wood-burning appliances to reduce emissions and improve air quality.
• Cordwood Prices: Cordwood prices vary depending on the region and the species of wood. These challenges can include:
  • Limited Access to Equipment: Many small workshops and DIYers lack access to expensive equipment like log splitters and firewood processors.
  • Lack of Training: Proper training is essential for safe and efficient wood processing.
  • Resource Constraints: Small workshops and DIYers often operate on a limited budget, which can make it difficult to invest in the necessary tools and materials.
  • Environmental Regulations: Complying with environmental regulations can be challenging, especially for small workshops and DIYers.

  Actionable Advice and Practical Tips

  Here are some actionable advice and practical tips to help you succeed with your wood processing and firewood preparation projects:

  • Start Small: If you’re new to wood processing, start with a small project and gradually increase the scale as you gain experience.
  • Invest in Quality Tools: Investing in quality tools will make your work easier and safer.
  • Maintain Your Tools: Proper tool maintenance is essential for safety and efficiency.
  • Season Your Wood Properly: Seasoning your wood properly will make it burn more efficiently and produce less smoke.
  • Follow Safety Guidelines: Always follow safety guidelines when working with wood.
  • Seek Expert Advice: Don’t hesitate to seek expert advice if you’re unsure about something.

  Conclusion: The Responsible Choice

  So, can you burn old rotted railroad ties? The answer, unequivocally, is no. The risks to your health, the environment, and your property are simply too great. While the temptation of a “free” fuel source might be strong, the true cost of burning treated wood is far higher than any potential savings.

  Instead, focus on sustainable and responsible wood-burning practices. Source your wood from sustainable forests, season it properly, and burn it in a safe and efficient wood stove or fireplace. By making informed choices and taking responsible actions, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of a wood-burning fire without harming yourself, your community, or the environment.

  The next step? Educate yourself further on safe wood-burning practices and share this information with others. Let’s all do our part to protect our health and the environment while enjoying the benefits of wood heat.

Learn more