They’ve also come leaps and bounds in terms of aesthetics and design, making them an ideal choice for many landscaping projects. Today, you’ll see concrete sleepers used for retaining walls, garden terraces and steps in gardens.
However, what doesn’t get mentioned enough is the care and maintenance of these products. To ensure years of service life, concrete sleeper products do require some maintenance. For example, to protect your concrete sleeper’s colour from staining, you can seal with with a clear concrete sealer.
Besides stain protection, there are some basic care principles to follow to ensure that your concrete performs to its capabilities. Below are general maintenance tips for you to consider:
Regular Inspections
While concrete sleepers are tough, they aren’t invincible! Regularly inspect your sleepers for cracks, bulges, crumbling, fractures or any telltale signs of damage. These are all enough to spoil the look and performance of your sleepers. Remember that cracks can widen over time, and maybe a sign of underlying problems.
Not sure about how high concrete sleepers retaining walls go? Check this out.
Make Immediate Repairs
As mentioned, cracks typically worsen over time, affecting your retaining wall’s appearance and structural integrity. Cracks that are less than 1/2 inch can be patched with a low-viscosity epoxy adhesive.
If orange rust stains are visible, this may indicate that the rebar (the steel reinforcing your sleeper) is corroding or rusting. In this case, it is best to consult an experienced engineer or professional for a repair estimate.
Regardless if you DIY repair or engage a professional for your concrete sleepers, make sure to make repairs ASAP. Read about Concrete Sleepers Maintenance and Product Care.
Don’t Ignore Your Drainage
Earth pressure can be enormous, especially if the soil is wet. A retaining wall without proper drainage can cause water to accumulate behind the retaining wall, increasing the pressure even more on your sleepers.
To prevent water accumulate, regularly inspect your drainage system to ensure it’s not clogged or blocked with debris or soil. If it is, it will not function optimally and water won’t be able to flow and drain away from your sleepers. And if you haven’t got a drainage system in place, you may need to consider installing one.
Clean your concrete sleepers
Your retaining wall is an extension of your exterior, and its beauty and appearance can be maintained with a good cleaning.
Cleaning your sleepers is easy; you’ll need some warm water, mild dishwashing soap and baking soda for stains. Begin by using a garden hose to rinse down your sleepers, then gently wipe the surface with a soft brush or cloth. You can use a mild cleaning solution if stains are present.
You’ll want to avoid chemical cleaners as they can be bleaching, leaving permanent damage.
Also, be sure to avoid pressure washing as this can loosen the mortar and even damage your sleepers. Bricks and blocks should be treated with extra care. If you’re looking for professional help to keep your home pristine, consider a local Melbourne cleaning service that offers a range of solutions to suit your needs
High-quality Products with RWS
Looking to install a retaining wall to capture land and add a unique design element to your garden? RWS has the perfect solution, with our range of quality concrete sleepers and steel posts. Browse our website for more information about our products, or contact us today to discuss your needs. Our services are available in Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast.
