What are Timber Sleepers used for?
Originally, timber sleepers were used in the construction of railways to support lengths of railway track. However, most timber sleepers these days are the same size and shape, but are designed with use in gardens and outdoor construction in mind, and are usually made with a pressure-treated coniferous wood such as spruce or redwood, as a more versatile and cost-effective product that is perfect for building small retaining walls, garden terraces, raised beds and other decorative elements outdoors.
Can You Use Wooden Sleepers for Raised Beds?
Yes - nowadays most wooden sleepers are manufactured for this sort of purpose specifically. They are treated to a high-spec use case of UC4, meaning they can be laid directly onto the ground and still be expected to last a considerable amount of time. The only caveat is that it is advised to use new pressure treated sleepers especially when using for fruit or vegetable beds, as in the past treatments may have included arsenic.
How to Install Wooden Garden Sleepers
The method of installing wooden garden sleepers will vary based on your intended use, however there are some important points to keep in mind whatever you are using them for. Our wooden garden sleepers are made from UC4 pressure-treated timber which means they are designed to resist rot and pests in outdoor projects, but if you are cross-cutting them to fit your project such as a raised bed, it is heavily recommended to treat the cut-edges to ensure they maintain an adequate resistance to moisture and pests. Furthermore, these cut edges are not suitable for placement in direct contact with the ground and doing so may reduce the lifetime of the timber.
How Long do Wooden Garden Sleepers Last?
Wooden garden sleepers are a sturdy timber product designed to last, and with UC4 pressure treatment they are expected to last 15 or more years with the proper installation and use. To prolong their lifespan, it may be advisable to occasionally treat your sleepers with wood preservatives and pest treatments.
