Sleepers - Oak

Sleepers are always a popular product, probably due to their versatility. They can be used as a retainer – horizontally or vertically – for steps and for raised beds. Southern Timber has not sold reclaimed sleepers since June 2003 – reclaimed sleepers invariably are impregnated with Creosote which has been found to contain carcinogens.

Oak sleepers do vary in appearance. Fresher cut stock tends to be a pale green to soft russet tones, as they weather the colours will become muted and after a season or two will become slate grey in colour. Some sleepers will have wany and uneven edges, some may even have bark on them and this is part of their rustic appeal. As the sleepers dry out they will start to exhibit end splits and the grain will open up a little.

Oak sleeper dimensions vary slightly from one delivery to another – one thing that does remain consistent is their considerable weight! Normally stocks are held in three sizes: 100mm x 200mm (approx. 4” x 8”) at 2.4 metres (approx. 8’) and 130mm x 220mm (approx. 5” x 9”) at 2.55 metres (approx. 8’ 4”) and 150mm x 250mm at 2.55 metres.