While timber sleepers are a popular choice for garden borders and raised beds, weather exposure over time inevitably takes its toll. In this recent project, the client’s existing oak sleeper planters were beginning to pull apart, decay, and lose structural integrity. They wanted a long-term, permanent solution that would hold up to the elements without sacrificing style.
The Project Overview
- Out with the Old: We completely removed the shifting oak sleepers and excavated solid footings to ensure a strong base for the new masonry. We sourced a skip larger than was required so we could also remove clear the customers debris stockpile from their garden which will free up space for future projects. In total we filled an 8 yard skip for the project.
- Durable Brick Construction: We used Ibstock Cattybrook Bristol Buff sourced from John A Stephens in Nottingham, they were the only local branch to hold them. We used them as they matched the house to give a smoother aesthetic, we built the retaining walls and raised planters to complement the existing home and garden layout.
- Staffordshire Blue Finish: To top off the walls, we laid double bullnose Staffordshire blue bricks along the coping. The smooth, rounded edges give a clean, professional finish that doubles as comfortable garden coping.
- Moisture Protection: We applied a tanking slurry to limit the moisture transferring to the bricks. We used engineering spec bricks which can be laid underground but the tanking can’t hurt and is a belt and braces approach.
Why Choose Double Bullnose Staffordshire Blue’s for the soldier course?
- Unmatched Durability: Staffordshire blue bricks are renowned for high strength and exceptionally low water absorption, making them ideal for ground-level garden exposure.
- Safety & Comfort: The dual-rounded bullnose profile removes sharp corners—perfect for family gardens and comfortable to lean against or sit on.
- Striking Contrast: The deep slate-blue tone creates a sharp, modern contrast against warm orange brickwork and green foliage.
- Corner headers: We managed to source corner headers which really finish it off nicely, though they are £60 each including VAT
Looking to upgrade tired timber features in your garden to a clean, permanent brick structure? Get in touch today for a free consultation and quote! Call us on 07737 988 243