Can you paint railroad ties that have cresol in them?

Answer by  john47 (14)

It is possible to paint over creosote; first clean any loose material from the surface, then apply a coat of aluminum paint, then a coat of primer-sealer, and finally a top coat of latex paint. The creosote may still ooze through. And it's an EPA-listed carcinogen. So, for your childrens' safety, you should find a new border material.

Answer by  ttownbeast (341)

Any paint does not stick very good to cresol treated lumber the treatment is so chemically reactive and heat sensitive any attempt to coat it will flake off or blister. Aged railroad ties that weathered for a few years have a lower amount of the substance and may be possible to paint after thorough pressure washing and drying.

Answer by  stinkymess (310)

Paint will not stick to the plastic surfaces on railroad ties. You can try to spray paint them for a temporary look. Other than that just try to find and buy the railroad ties the color you want them. They sell them in different colors. I have seen them in black and brown.

Answer by  rbiales (3441)

You can paint railroad ties, in fact I would coat them with a number of coats of sealer since cresol is not a good material for children to play with. Better yet -- replace the ties.