The Benefits of Concrete Sleeper Retaining Walls

When it comes to landscaping and creating functional outdoor spaces, retaining walls play a crucial role in making sloped areas more functional, preventing soil erosion, managing water flow and adding visual appeal. One popular choice for constructing durable and long-lasting retaining walls is concrete sleeper retaining walls. These structures not only provide excellent support but also offer several benefits that make them an ideal option for any landscape project.

Must-know Benefits of Concrete Sleeper Retaining Walls

Strength and Durability

Concrete sleeper retaining walls are known for their exceptional strength and durability. Made from steel-reinforced concrete, concrete sleepers can withstand heavy loads without losing their structural integrity over time. Installations are made using galvanised steel posts, usually called Universal Channels or UC; many installations have accessories like galvanised steel post caps or galvanised fence brackets when you need to include a fence on top of the retaining wall. So whether you need to retain a small garden bed or create terraced levels on a sloping site, concrete sleepers just might be the best material for the job at hand.

Resistance to pests and decay

Unlike wooden sleepers, concrete sleepers are very resistant to damage from termites and other pests. Also, concrete sleepers will not rot, so you don’t need to worry about replacing them periodically. Once installed, they can last a lifetime.

Finally, unlike wooden sleepers that can be treated with dangerous chemicals, you don’t need to worry about that if you use concrete sleepers. Working with these sleepers means you can create a safe space for growing vegetables, and you can also rest assured that your children won’t be touching treated surfaces.

Low Maintenance

One major advantage of using concrete sleeper retaining walls is their low maintenance requirements compared to other materials like timber or stone. Unlike wood that may rot or warp over time, or stones that might shift out of place due to weathering, concrete sleepers should remain intact under harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures or heavy rainfall. (Note, if the concrete sleepers are incorrectly installed or insufficient or inappropriate drainage is incorporated into their installation, then it’s possible that they could shift position, although the sleeper itself should remain intact.)

Versatility

Concrete sleeper retaining wall systems come in various sizes and designs, which allow flexibility when designing your landscape project according to your specific needs and preferences.

Whether you prefer a modern look with a smooth surface or want something more rustic with textured surfaces resembling natural stone or wood grain patterns, there's always an option available that will suit your style perfectly! (Concrete Sleepers Melbourne offers a range of surfaces, including those that resemble stone, wood, and concrete blocks.)

Easy Installation Process

Due to its modular design system, our concrete sleepers are relatively easy to install, however they are very heavy, so you may need to hire a sleeper handling equipment. (Concrete Sleepers can advise you on the equipment you will need, and can supply sleeper grabs).

The ground surface where you plan on installing the wall sections will need to be levelled before you assemble the sleepers. Once the ground is prepared, assembly of the pieces is simple.

Note, before ordering your concrete sleepers and installing a retaining wall, you should ensure you are adhering to local regulations regarding the maximum height of your retaining wall. Each state has its unique requirements when it comes to maximum height permitted without council approval. If you wish to exceed this height, you need to apply for council approval, and in some cases, you may need to get a structural engineer involved. (Note, regulations apply with all retaining wall materials—not only concrete. See our FAQs for more information).

Longevity

Concrete sleeper retaining walls have a long lifespan and can last for decades without requiring major repairs or replacements. This means you won't have to worry about constant maintenance or replacement costs in the future, saving you both time and money. It is also good to know that wastage is reduced, as the product lasts a lifetime.

In conclusion…

When it comes to building retaining walls, concrete sleeper options stand out. Their durability, stability, versatility in design choices, and low maintenance requirements make them highly sought after by homeowners who want long-lasting solutions without

compromising on style and convenience. Contact Concrete Sleepers Melbourne today for expert advice on how best to incorporate these fantastic sleepers into your landscape plans!