Most of the fences we put up have vertical boards. This one in Newport runs the other way. Along the side boundary of a family garden, we built a new fence using sleepers, with wide timbers laid horizontally between chunky posts, giving a solid, modern-looking screen behind the planted border.
The garden around it is generous: a stone-paved path and steps from the patio doors, a broad lawn, fruit trees in the border and a timber shelter at the far end. For the other kinds of boundary we build, see our fencing and gates page, or read about landscaping in Newport.
Before, during and after
The three photos show the side of the garden at different stages. In one, the boundary is a red-brick wall with trellis along the top. In the work-in-progress shot that wall has gone, the view is open through to the next garden, and the team are at work along the front of the border with timbers laid out on the ground.
The finished picture shows the new fence in place from the house to the corner by the shelter. The horizontal timbers are close together with no gaps, and the fruit trees and shrubs in the bed now stand against a warm brown backdrop instead of brick.
- Horizontal fence built with sleepers along the side boundary
- Solid timber posts carrying the horizontal run
- Border and fruit trees kept in front of the new fence
- Low edge along the front of the bed where it meets the lawn
Why build a fence from sleepers?
Sleepers are thick, heavy timbers, so a fence made with them feels far more substantial than a panel fence. Laid horizontally they give clean, long lines that suit a contemporary garden, and they make a good match for sleeper raised beds and edging elsewhere in a plot.
That weight needs planning for. Posts have to be large and well set to carry heavy timbers, and the fixings must allow for the wood moving as it dries and wets through the seasons. Treated softwood sleepers are the usual choice for this; they weather to a softer brown over time. For keeping any timber boundary in good condition, see our guide on making a garden fence last longer, or compare panel styles in close board, panel or slatted fencing. If you would like something similar, contact us for a free quote.
Questions About This Job
Can sleepers be used to build a fence?
Yes. Laid horizontally between strong posts, sleepers make a very solid screen. They are heavier than fence boards, so the posts and footings need to be sized for that.
Is a horizontal fence as private as a close-board one?
It can be, if the boards are fitted tight together as they were here. Horizontal fences with gaps between the boards let more light and air through but give less screening.
Will sleeper timber change colour?
Most treated sleepers start a warm brown and slowly weather towards a softer, greyer tone. A coat of stain or oil can keep the colour richer if you prefer.
