Ready to build your retaining wall?
Every great project starts with a good plan. This simple guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Plan Your Wall
Decide where to put it, how long, and how tall. Consider your space and local rules.
Choose Your Materials
Pick the right composite sleepers and parts for your project.
Prepare Your Site
Clear the area and get everything ready for building.
What Are Composite Sleepers?
Composite sleepers are modern building materials made by combining different materials to create strong, durable wall pieces.
Makes them very strong
Keeps them flexible and tough
Protects from sun damage
Why Choose Composite Sleepers?
Here's why many DIYers prefer composite over traditional wood or concrete:
Easy to Handle
Much lighter than concrete - you can carry them yourself.
- No heavy lifting needed
- Can install without big machines
- Perfect for DIY projects
Very Strong
Four times stronger than concrete sleepers.
- Won't bend or break over time
- Can handle heavy weight
- Lasts for many years
Easy to Care For
Put them up and forget about them.
- Won't rot or splinter
- No painting or staining needed
- Just check once a year
1 Plan Your Wall
Pick the Right Spot
Think about these things when choosing where to build:
- How much sun the area gets
- Where water flows after rain
- Nearby trees or garden features
How Close to Your House?
Different places have different rules about how close you can build to houses. Check with your local council before you start.
How Long Should It Be?
Usually, your space decides the length. Just measure the area where you want the wall. If you have lots of space, you can choose any length you like.
How Tall Can You Build?
In Queensland, you need permission for walls over 1 meter tall. In other areas, check your local rules. For most DIY projects, staying under 1 meter keeps things simple.
2 Choose Your Materials
Here's what you'll need for your project:
Composite Sleepers
The main wall pieces
Support Posts
Hold the wall up straight
Support Brackets
Extra support pieces
Connecting Parts
Join everything together
Drainage System
Stops water problems
Hardware Kit
Screws, bolts, and fasteners
Extra Items You Might Want:
- Top Caps - Makes the top look finished
- Fence Attachments - If adding a fence on top
What Size Sleepers?
You'll usually find two sizes:
- 2000mm size - Recommended for walls 1200mm to 3m tall
- 2400mm size - Suitable for walls up to 1m tall
3 Prepare Your Site
Clear the Area
Start by removing all plants and grass. You need a flat, clean area to work on. For big areas, you might need help from an excavator.
Mark Your Area
Use spray paint to mark any trees or plants you want to keep. Run a string along where your wall will go - this helps keep everything straight.
Mark Where to Dig
Use a measuring tape and spray paint to mark where your support posts will go:
- Mark every 2000mm or 2400mm (depending on your sleeper size)
- Leave a small gap between sleepers for posts
- These marks show where to dig holes for posts
Watch Our Installation Video
See exactly how to install your retaining wall with our step-by-step video guide.
Watch Installation VideoHelpful Resources
Request a Quote & Order Information
Complete this form and a distributor in your area will contact you with pricing, stock availability, and delivery information.
DIY Building Products
Retaining Wall Sleepers
Modern composite sleepers for building strong, good-looking retaining walls. Easy to install with simple tools.
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Fencing Systems
Composite fencing that lasts for years. Won't rot and needs almost no care.
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Garden & Landscape
Complete your outdoor space with composite garden edges and landscape products.
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