Concrete sleepers have been the go-to material for retaining walls for a good number of decades, particularly among Australian home builders. Concrete sleepers are handy pieces of equipment with a double purpose to be used structurally and to provide a cosmetic façade to the outside. So why have concrete sleepers become one of the most popular retaining wall materials?
What Are Concrete Sleepers?
Concrete sleepers are precast rectangular blocks of concrete that are reinforced. They previously used to satisfy railway specifications, but with their current application in landscaping, they have been in demand. Real-Crete’s concrete sleepers for retaining walls, for example, are built to last decades and are pressure-resistant, and it is therefore not surprising to see them being applied in retaining walls. Concrete sleepers come in many sizes and shapes and may be created to resemble natural stone or wood so that they blend well into a wide range of landscaping schemes.
One of the greatest benefits of concrete sleepers is that they are extremely durable. They’re steel-reinforced, and thus highly unlikely to crack, warp, or rot even under Australia’s heavy climate. They demand little maintenance once installed, making a long-term retaining wall solution for homeowners to count on for years to come.
Retaining Walls: What Are They?
Prior to examining why concrete sleepers are the correct option, it is good to learn about the purpose of retaining walls. A retaining wall retains soil and prevents erosion, and thus is required in gardens or on sloping land. The walls remain firm, particularly on sloping land, and provide the opportunity to even out the ground for plantings, patios, or walks.
There are retaining walls in all descriptions: timber, stone, brick, and naturally concrete sleeper form. All are convenient, but none can do everything in the optimum manner. Wooden retaining walls look nice, but might perhaps be inappropriate to exposure to wetter conditions. Bricked walls are more resilient wearing but would be more costly to construct.
Concrete sleepers, though, seem to balance most of the qualities people seek in this feature.
Advantages of Concrete Sleepers in Retaining Walls
Several advantages of concrete sleepers in retaining walls exist, including that they are an inexpensive but very popular product right across Australia.
One of the greatest things about them is that there is no topping their longevity. Compared to wood, which will probably rot or warp at some point, or stone, which will move and settle, concrete sleepers are constructed to endure soil and water pressure for decades. They are termite-proof, water-resistant, and heat- and cold-resistant, all of which give owners peace of mind about how long they will last.
Another significant benefit is that they are easy to install. Concrete sleepers are pre-assembled and thus are easily installable with little labour or specialised equipment required. They are heavily suited for simple installation and for contracting professional landscaping services.
Design flexibility is another area of strength for concrete sleepers. Available in a range of textures, patterns, and colours, they can be made to mimic the appearance of natural materials such as timber or sandstone to match the overall theme of your outdoor environment. Whether looking for a sleek, contemporary appearance or a rustic, natural tone, there is a concrete sleeper design to meet your needs.
Lastly, concrete sleepers are a cost-effective choice in the long run. While the initial investment may be higher than some other materials, the low maintenance requirements and long lifespan mean you’re unlikely to encounter frequent replacement or repair costs.
Why Concrete Sleepers Are a Solid Choice
Concrete sleepers are the solution to Australian residents who must build or replace retaining walls. They offer a blend of strength, durability, and design flexibility without exposing themselves to maintenance for years. Besides their purpose, they also possess an amazing, elegant appearance that contributes to outdoor space without sacrificing the structural integrity of the wall.
For landscaping or building that calls for a retaining wall, concrete sleepers must be on your priority list. Their strength, simplicity, and capacity to endure even the worst conditions make them one of the best investments for your outdoor area.