Railway Sleepers

Yes, you can stain or paint your railway sleepers to match your desired aesthetic. However, keep in mind that paint may require more maintenance over time due to peeling and chipping, while stains or natural finishes can enhance the woods appearance and may require less maintenance.

Yes, railway sleepers come in various sizes. Here are some the most common sizes that we offer.

For tanalised softwood sleepers:

• 100x100x2400 mm

• 200x100x1200 mm

• 200x100x2400 mm

For reclaimed grade railway sleepers:

• 250x150x2600 mm

For new Canadian oak railways sleepers:

• 200x100x2200 mm

• 200x150x2200 mm

All of our Railway Sleepers are sustainably sourced from suppliers in the UK and Canada and will have no long term Enviromental impact. If you want to minimize the environmental impact, then we recommend using locally sourced reclaimed wooden railway sleepers.

For vegetable gardens, it’s best to use new oak and treated softwood sleepers. However, reclaimed sleepers have been used for decades to build raised beds in gardens across the UK. To ensure suitability, it’s imperative to confirm the absence of creosote, oil, or tar within the sleepers. Consequently, it’s advisable to steer clear of reclaimed sleepers for this particular application.

Treated softwood sleepers (tanalised, not simply dipped) have a lifespan of 8 to 10 years, which makes a great balance between durability and cost-effectiveness.

In contrast, new oak sleepers have a more extended lifespan ranging from 10 to 20 years, providing a robust and enduring option for various applications.

For those seeking both sustainability and longevity, reclaimed hardwood sleepers stand out, lasting from 15 to 25 years.

It’s important to note that the duration of these lifespans is significantly affected by the quality of the timber installed and the characteristics of the terrain. It’s recommended to meticulously choose sleepers, but the good news is that we will assist you in making the best decision.