Oak Sleepers

Oak sleepers

Oak sleepers are chunky hardwood beams prized for their strength, character and long life. Unlike treated softwood, oak is naturally durable, so it does not rely on a preservative. They are popular for raised beds, retaining walls, steps, garden features, and as mantels and beams inside the home.

What to expect

• A rich golden to tan colour that weathers to a silvery grey.
• Surface checks, splits and shakes as the timber dries. These are natural and rarely affect strength.
• Variations in colour and grain, as each piece is unique.

Green and air dried oak

Oak sleepers are often supplied fresh sawn or air dried. Fresh oak is heavy and may move more as it dries. Ask about moisture content if you need a stable piece for a particular detail. Oak also contains tannins, which can stain stone or concrete in wet weather, and will react with plain steel fixings, so use stainless steel fixings throughout.

Handling and building

Oak is very dense and heavy, so two people are needed to lift a sleeper, with gloves and sensible lifting practice. Pre-drill before fixing, and use long stainless landscape screws or threaded rods between courses. For retaining walls beyond a modest height, take proper advice, and provide drainage behind the wall.

Ground contact

The heartwood of oak is durable in contact with the ground, but sapwood is not. Choose pieces with mostly heartwood for ground use.

Ordering

Calculate the lengths and courses, and add 10% for cutting and variation. See screws, nails and accessories for fixings, garden buildings for inspiration and fence and screens for related items. Use the quote form for bespoke sizes.