Garden Sleepers

• Raised beds:
  Create defined areas for flowers, shrubs and suitable produce.
• Garden borders:
  Separate lawns, planting areas, gravel and pathways.
• Steps and pathways:
  Introduce practical features into sloping or divided gardens.
• Seating and features:
  Build suitable benches, planters and decorative structures.
• Level changes:
  Form low retaining features where correctly designed and supported.

Measure the total length of each side of the planned feature and
divide it by the usable length of the selected sleeper. Multiply
this by the number of layers required.

Allow for corners, cuts, overlaps and a small amount of spare
material. Draw the project with its measurements before ordering.

• Horizontal installation:
  Commonly used for raised beds, edging and layered landscaping
  features.
• Upright installation:
  Can create curved borders and varied heights but requires suitable
  ground support and careful alignment.

The correct installation method depends on the intended height,
ground conditions and forces placed on the structure.

Remove loose vegetation and prepare a firm, level foundation.
Suitable drainage beneath and behind the sleepers can help prevent
water from collecting around the timber.

Check the complete layout and finished levels before fixing the
sleepers permanently.

Use fixings suitable for the sleeper dimensions, timber treatment
and intended outdoor use. Long timber screws, suitable brackets or
supporting posts may be required depending on the design.

Position fixings away from weak edges and consider drilling pilot
holes to reduce the risk of splitting.

If sleepers will be used around fruit, vegetables or herbs, check
that the timber treatment and any applied finish are suitable for
the intended use.

A suitable internal barrier may help separate soil from the timber,
but it should be installed without preventing necessary drainage.

Retaining features must resist the weight and pressure of the soil
behind them, which increases significantly with height and poor
drainage.

Taller structures, steep slopes or areas close to buildings and
boundaries should be designed by a suitably experienced
professional.

Measure carefully and support the sleeper securely before cutting.
Wear suitable gloves, eye protection and respiratory protection
where required.

Cuts made through treated timber may expose untreated material.
Apply a compatible end-grain treatment according to the timber
supplier’s guidance.

Timber naturally changes colour and may develop surface checks as
it is exposed to the weather. Inspect sleepers regularly and keep
drainage routes clear.

Clean and refinish the timber where appropriate, following the
maintenance instructions for the sleeper and any coating used.

Based in Stanstead Abbotts, 414 Fencing supplies garden sleepers
throughout Harlow, Hertford, Hertfordshire, Essex and North London.

Measure your project before ordering and let us know about any
delivery or access restrictions.