How do I Install Landscaping Railroad Ties?

Railroad ties are as American as cowboy hats and country music. Using railroad ties in the landscape adds a rural, country touch to your decorating efforts. Railroad ties are available from scrap yards or to buy from some home and garden centers. Do not use railroad ties treated with creosote to line beds growing edible food. Eating creosote in large amounts may cause burning of the mouth and damage to the liver. Use creosote-treated wood to decorate other areas of the yard.

Measuring tape
Pencil
Paper
Chalk line
Railroad ties
Shovel
Level
Metal rebar

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the area you want to decorate with railroad ties using measuring tape. Draw a scale plan outlining the design of the railroad tie layout.
- 2
  Snap a chalk line along the area where the railroad ties will sit to get a visual representation of the design. Lay out one layer of railroad ties onto the chalk line to see the design in practice. Remove the railroad ties once satisfied and make any changes to your chalk line if necessary.
- 3
  Dig out a 2-inch trench along the chalk line for the railroad ties to sit in. Set the railroad ties in the trench and set your level on top. Make sure the railroad tie lies even to the ground. Lay out several pieces of railroad tie to make stairs or pathways.
- 4
  Stack another layer of railroad ties on top of your first layer if you are building a small wall. Drill a hole through the top and bottom railroad tie using your drill and drive in a piece of metal rebar to hold the railroad tie in place.

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