I'm planning to hand lay ties and track for outdoor use. I figure I can pre-build much of it indoors and then install it outside on a ladder or similar firm footing. The ties will be in direct contact with ballast and dirt and stay outdoors year 'round. Any suggestions/experiences as to what type wood and coatings to use? Any suggestions for spikes? The usual (and conflicting) requirements for low cost, high quality, long lasting, great looking, easy to build and maintain, apply. - - Web

 

P.S. I'm in the Northeast, so at various times it will freeze, thaw, sizzle in the sun, and be awash with humidity and rain.

I'm using red cedar for the ties.  Once cut to length I soak them in used diesel oil for several days,  then set them aside to dry out.  So far have done about 2000 ties that way.  The diesel oil not only treats them against the wet but also turns them very dark...look just like creosoted ties.  I use black steel spikes that I bought from C&OCR,  was told not to use the stainless steel spikes as they won't rust into the ties and have a habit of working lose. 

  I build the track in the house in jigs made for both straight and curved,  the curves in the two diameters I am using.  When finished I can install them on the layout just like using sectional track.  Haven't done any switches as of yet....but that will be soon.  Can't tell you how well it lasts as it is too soon on my layout, but was told by someone who does use the diesel oil and red cedar that he has had no problems in many years,  and expects many more before needing ties replaced.  Anyhow...just my two cents worth.

 

Garry    NCGRR

Hi

Thanks for the responses. I read that thread before I posted my question. I thought some additional advice and experiences might surface. -- Web