Reclaimed Railway Sleepers

 

We get asked for railway sleepers a lot so with that in mind i have decided to write an article on the various different types of railway sleepers that are currently available with a little bit info on the pros and cons of each type.

Used railway sleepers

Reclaimed railway sleepers are becoming very popular and are available in three different grades - 

Grade A – Very good Quality used railwat sleeper generally free from Rot, can be used for stacking or building retaining walls.

Grade A&B – A mix of A&B a bit of a gamble as some sleepers will contain a small amount of rot and they are usually not as uniformed for building retaining walls etc.

Grade B – Similar characteristics to grade A however they will not be uniform and they will usually contain a small amount of Rot. ( Damage usually occurs on one side ).

TIP - With all reconditioned railway sleepers they vary from batch to batch it is always worth asking the supplier for images prior to purchase of goods.

 

Standard Tanalised Wooden Railway Sleepers

These are new softwood ( Spruce / Pine ) railway sleepers they are full uniformed and are easy to work with they are often used as retaining for soil and as a feature flower bed in th garden. The downside of these sleepers is that when in constant contact with the soil they can be prone to decaying quicker than a reconditioned sleeper.

TIP – Paint with oil based preserver prior to installation

 

Sandblasted Railway Sleepers

Sandblasted railway sleepers are similar to the standard tantalised sleeper however they have been shot blasted to enhance the natural grain pattern of the timber. These sleepers tend to be a little more expensive however they do look beautiful.

TIP – Paint with oild based preserver prior to installation.

Oak Railway sleepers

These hardwood sleepers are manufactured using Oak trees. The grade of the Oak is Sleeper Grade and it is therefore prone to splitting and twisting however looks amazing. These sleepers have the ithe durability of hardwood and offer a low maintenance alternative to the Tanalised pine sleepers.

TIP – Be prepared for splits & shakes

For further information on a wide range of Railway sleepers visit our display area in Pontardulais Swansea South Wales. Alternatively visit our Website at www.dgheath.co.uk or call our dedicated sales team on Swansea 01792 8848287.