What Are Crossing Timbers?
Crossing timbers are used beneath rail crossings and other points that require extra strength and length. Crossing timbers are also called relay ties. Many people use old crossing timbers in building construction to provide a rustic look. They are also used in landscaping and gardening because they are treated to resist decay and insects.. Does this Spark an idea?
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Size
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Crossing timbers are wider and usually longer than regular railroad ties. A standard railroad tie in the United States is 9 inches wide and 7 inches high, with a standard length of 8-1/2 feet. Crossing timbers are usually 12 inches wide and can be up to 20 feet long.
Composition
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Crossing timbers are typically made of hardwoods to provide extra strength and to prevent splitting and rotting. The hardwood used for crossing timbers varies geographically. For example, oak and hickory are the most common types of wood used in the United States while eucalyptus is the wood of choice in Australia.
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Chemical Treatment
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Almost all crossing timbers are pressure-treated with creosote or creosote solutions to prevent decay and insect damage. Treated timbers usually have a darker color. Some treatment facilities also use copper naphthenate and arsenic-based compounds. Older crossing timbers may have been treated with pentachlorophenol although the use of this chemical for railroad ties has been discontinued due to environmental concerns.
Uses
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Many people use new or used crossing timbers in building construction to create an Old World look. For building interiors, only untreated timber should be used. Creosote and the other preservatives are toxic and create health risks, such as respiratory problems due to off-gassing fumes in buildings. Treated crossing timbers can be used to create raised gardening beds, flower boxes and retaining walls because of their resistance to rot.
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References
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