There are several factors to consider when choosing the right retaining wall material, including cost, ease of construction and maintenance.
Concrete sleepers are one of the most cost-effective materials; however, are they the cheapest?
Concrete Sleepers vs Other Cheap Alternatives
Here we explore the pros and cons of concrete sleepers so you can make the best decision for your property and wallet.
Timber retaining walls
Concrete sleepers are one of the most popular choices for retaining walls due to their low cost and ease of construction. However, timber retaining walls are also a cheap alternative.
Initially, a timber wall can be cheaper especially if the timber is a softwood variety such as treated pine. However, quality hardwood will usually cost more than a standard concrete sleeper when you take finishing the timber into account.
The main problem with timber is the fact that it will eventually rot and depending on the look that you want may need regular upkeep by painting or staining the timber. This obviously adds to the overall cost of the wall, especially if the timber wall needs to be replaced in the following decade.
Rock Retaining Walls
There are a few reasons why rock retaining walls can be cheaper than concrete sleeper retaining walls. These are as follows
- You may already have rocks on or near your property (easily accessible)
- No concrete, footings or pads are required as the rock wall is bedded into the foundation
- Drainage costs can be reduced, although if you want to reduce water seepage through the wall you will still require drainage. It is good practice to always have drainage incorporated into the wall.
These factors indicate that, in most situations, a rock retaining wall is less expensive than a concrete sleeper retaining wall.
However, there are some instances where a concrete sleeper retaining wall may be more affordable and a better option.
For example
- where a fence is required on top of the retaining wall it can be attached to the posts supporting the concrete sleepers saving costs and space.
- larger machinery may be required for the rock wall which may not be an option in tight areas.
- almost any desired look can be obtained with concrete sleepers
Common Advantages of Concrete Sleepers for Retaining Walls
Concrete sleepers have many advantages over other materials used for retaining walls. They are
- more durable
- longer lasting compared to timber and other materials
- require little maintenance
- and are fire resistant.
They are also relatively easy to construct and are generally less expensive.
Disadvantages of Concrete Sleeper Retaining Walls
There are some disadvantages to using concrete sleepers for retaining walls.
- they should not be cut to size as this exposes the internal reinforcing steel and in most cases voids any warranty
- the higher the wall the larger and heavier supporting steel posts become.
- sleepers can crack if put under extra stress loading
- galvanised steel posts can on some occasions be unsightly and require painting causing a maintenance issue
Costs of a Concrete Sleeper Retaining Wall
The costs of building a retaining wall using sleepers can vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the project.
Therefore concrete sleeper retaining walls cost in the vacinity of $320 – $650 per m2
To work out the m2 of your wall multiply the length of the wall x height. If the height varies take the average height as your height.
In general, the costs will include surveyors fees, engineering fees, council consent, excavation, material costs, installation costs, drainage and backfilling of the wall.
The following is a breakdown of costs associated with building a concrete sleeper retaining wall.
Surveyors Fees
Surveyor’s fees are usually only required when the wall is near a boundary or to support a structure.
Engineering Fees
Most concrete sleeper suppliers allow for engineering within their specifications.The exception to this is over height walls.
Council Building Consent Fees
These vary from one council to another but in general if the wall is over 1m high it will require council consent.
Excavation
Excavation includes machine hire, truck hire and tipping fees to dispose of unwanted soil. If you can find somebody who wants fill near your site or can disperse soil on site this will alleviate the tipping fees.
Material costs – sleepers and posts
Material costs include sleepers posts, and concrete for footings.
Labour Costs
Installation costs include all labour costs to install posts and erect the Retaining Wall. For small walls boring the holes for posts are often included here.
Drainage
Drainage includes supplying and installing the drainage including connecting to existing drainage if required.
Backfilling
Dont forget that machinery will be required to come back once the wall is built to backfill. Backfilling material is also often required
Conclusion
Overall, concrete sleepers offer many advantages over other materials for retaining walls and are a popular choice for many homeowners, property owners and builders. While they do have a few disadvantages, these are outweighed by the benefits they offer.
If you’re considering using concrete sleepers for your next retaining wall project, be sure to get multiple quotes from contractors and suppliers. This will help ensure you get the best price possible.
You will find more great information on concrete sleepers on our concrete sleeper retaining wall page or you will find suppliers and contractors in your area here.
