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junemommy · May 28, 2009, 09:03 AM

I am trying to remove a raised flower bed (more of a weed bed really) constructed from two layers of railroad ties. Anyone have any ideas on how to get the railroad ties out without breaking my back? So far the ol' faithful sledge hammer and pry bar has produced only backache and blisters. I'm thinking, hoping, there may be a smarter way that I just haven't figured out yet. Thanks in advance for any advice.

dawgsnkats · May 28, 2009, 09:51 AM

Here is the way I attacked the same problem. First dig out the dirt near the timber, then use a chain saw to cut through top tie in several pieces. Remove pieces. Then use a pry bar and pieces from top to pry the botton tie onto 2x4's. Once the bottom tie is in place off the ground, then use chain saw to cut into small pieces. Be careful of creosote. Nasty to breath. Do not burn, creosote won't help our environment.

Another option is prying up a portion, connect rope/chain/sling to tie and to truck/tractor. Still will need to cut into pieces to manage waste.

Good luck and better you than me.

creahands · May 28, 2009, 12:19 PM

Originally Posted by dawgsnkats

Here is the way I attacked the same problem. First dig out the dirt near the timber, then use a chain saw to cut through top tie in several pieces. Remove pieces. Then use a pry bar and pieces from top to pry the botton tie onto 2x4's. Once the bottom tie is in place off the ground, then use chain saw to cut into small pieces. Be careful of creosote. Nasty to breath. Do not burn, creosote won't help our environment.

Another option is prying up a portion, connect rope/chain/sling to tie and to truck/tractor. Still will need to cut into pieces to manage waste.

Good luck and better you than me.

I agree. Be careful when cutting. Chain saw may bind if u cut in area between 2 spikes.

After cutting one piece, remove before cutting next.

Good luck

Chuck

21boat · May 29, 2009, 08:03 PM

then use a chain saw to cut through top tie in several pieces

Caution use a good expensive respirator when chain sawing. Its has a lot of nasties in in.

Its so volatile that a job site in Baltimore its and EPA thing of old ties and insanity of 100s of dollars to properly dispose of ONE railroad tie.

junemommy · May 30, 2009, 09:58 AM

[QUOTE=dawgsnkats;1762831]Hr, then use a chain saw to cut through top tie in several pieces.

Thanks for the chain saw suggestion. We rented one and it made the job easier. Still sucked though. Glad it's over. Now I just need to go see the chiropractor :-)