Fire Resilient Rebuilding Tip #10: Don’t use recycled railway ties in landscaping, especially near foundation walls

January 22, 2024

Each week, we share a practical landscaping or building tip from the Village’s Fire Resilient Community Fact Sheet. 

Fire resilient rebuilding Tip #10: Don’t use recycled rail ties in landscaping, especially near foundation walls.

Railway ties have traditionally been used for retaining walls and landscaping. However, the wood in them is soaked in creosote and other chemicals, which can leach into soil and water.

Creosote is also flammable, and if there is a fire, railway ties release toxic chemicals into the air.

Download the fire resilient rebuilding fact sheet for more tips or pick up a copy at the Village Office or Parish Hall.

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