Creative Landscaping Uses for Railroad Ties

Railroad ties are a cost-effective landscaping element that are very versatile and easy to incorporate into your yard. Most railroad ties are very sturdy with approximate dimensions of 7” x 9” x 8’ but can vary slightly. The rough exterior can create a rustic look if desired, or they can be used as covered support for many different projects. Here are some creative ways to use sturdy railroad ties in your landscape design.

Flower Beds or Garden

Want to build an above-ground flower bed or garden? Railroad ties are perfect and easy to use. They can be stack 2-3 high to build an 8’ x 8’ garden bed to plant flowers, herbs or vegetables. Railroad stakes can be used to keep them in place, then fill the box with nutrient-rich soil from your local landscape supplier.

Edging

Railroad ties make a great edging or border for your garden areas if you like the rustic look. They can also be a great border for your driveway to keep vehicles off your lawn.

Retaining Walls

If you are building a retaining wall, railroad ties are hefty and sturdy, making them a good choice for low walls. Railroad ties are excellent building materials that are easier to use for straight walls and usually less expensive than many types of stone or pavers.

Fencing

Railroad ties can make an interesting fence, with posts that can last for decades. They are much thicker than average fencing, creating a unique look that is very sturdy.

Your local landscape supplier with ample space is the place to go for railroad ties. Due to their size, only suppliers with room for these large timbers keep them in stock. Call around your area to find a supplier that can fill your order to use railroad ties for your next landscaping project.

Posted on behalf of:
Green Brothers Earth Works
680 Franklin Rd, SE
Marietta, GA 30067
(770) 590-8220

Protect Your Lawn with Decorative Boulders

Do you have a driveway that borders your lawn? Many homes have this configuration and it can be detrimental to the health of the lawn. Vehicles that back onto the lawn or veer off the driveway can dig in tire tracks and make it hard to maintain healthy grass. While a fencing is one option, if it is hit, it will need repair. Another solution? Use decorative boulders to border your driveway to protect your lawn and add an interesting touch to your landscaping.

Using Boulders for Your Driveway Border

If keeping tires off your lawn has been a challenge, boulders can be an excellent deterrent. They are a natural, beautiful addition to your landscaping, but can stand up to abuse. Boulders do not need to be repainted or repaired if someone hits them; the same may not be true for the offending vehicle. It can ensure that those visiting your home stay off your lawn and remain on the driveway, protecting your lawn.

To add a boulder border to your driveway, visit your local landscape supply store that offers natural stone. You want boulders that are at least 18-inches high, large enough that they cannot easily be drove over without hitting a bumper. You will want to place them no farther than five-feet apart so that vehicles cannot drive between them. Measure the length of your driveway and divide by five for the number of boulders needed for each side. Many suppliers offer delivery, making it easy to get these large rocks to your home.

Not only do boulders look lovely and protect your lawn, they require little maintenance and will last a lifetime. Visit your local landscape supplier and explore the options for making your driveway boulder border.

Posted on behalf of:
Culbreth Stone
1968 US-41
Pelham, TN 37366
(423) 930-8249

Polymer Versus Natural Sand for Pavers

Sand is an important part of any paver project. Whether you are building a patio for your backyard or a walkway to your front door, you need sand to create a solid base and to fill in the cracks between the pavers. While natural sand has been used for this purpose for many decades, another option is now available. Polymer sand can offer the same function for stabilizing pavers and may be able to outperform the natural sand for longevity.

What Is Polymer Sand?

Although there are many different types of polymer sands to choose from, the basic description is a dried, course sand that has had polymers added to it during the manufacturing process. These polymers are water-activated and create a solid mass when water is added. This makes it simple to create solid seams between pavers; just fill in the cracks, sweep away the excess, and sprinkle water on the polymer sand in the cracks. It quickly hardens and adds stability to any paving project.

The benefits of polymer sand versus natural sand is the solid filling for between the pavers. While natural sand can be washed away or allow ants or weeds to travel through it, polymer sand is solid and stays in place. It is better for deterring insects and weeds from your paved surface, making it much easier to maintain your paved area.

If you are planning a paver project, explore the options for polymer sand. It can make your paver surface last longer and easier to maintain, plus it is simple to use. Talk to your local landscape supplier to find the right polymer sand for your needs.

Posted on behalf of:
Alliance Stone
5420 Campground Rd
Cumming, GA 30040
(404) 759-0617