Can I burn red gum sleepers?

[Antzzz]

Hi would like to know if I can burn red gum sleepers that I purchased from bunnings about 18 years ago ....would they have been treated ?....I'm not sure so thought I'd ask here .....thanks 

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Antzzz. It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about hardwood sleepers.

In some cases, hardwood sleepers like red gum can be treated to help extend their lifespan, especially in moist or ground-contact conditions. However, given that your sleepers were purchased around 18 years ago, it’s difficult to determine whether they were treated or not—especially without clear markings or documentation.

To be on the safe side, it’s probably best not to burn them, as burning treated timber can release harmful chemicals into the air. If you're unsure of their treatment status, erring on the side of caution is the safest option.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[Antzzz]

Thank you for the reply