As such contractors and garden designers alike now use railway sleepers for all sorts of projects including soil retention, steps, stairways, raised beds, edging, bridges, paths and much more.

The railway sleepers themselves can be classified under two specific categories, which are new railway sleepers and secondhand railway sleepers.

New railway sleepers are available in both softwood and hardwood and are obtainable from stockists in a range of sizes. These sleepers offer an aesthetically pleasing look and finish and the softwood sleepers are particularly easy to use due to their relativity low weight. In essence these sleepers are perfect for many a garden project and in fact can be used pretty much anywhere; there have even been instances where they have been used to create indoor furniture!

Second hand sleepers are also available in a range of sizes and both types of timber; however they are more prominently supplied as hardwood. You will find many second hand railway sleepers have been treated with creosote for extra durability and to increase their life span.

Together these factors ensure that these railway sleepers offer a long lasting product that has a great rustic look and feel. Unfortunately the addition of creosote does mean that these sleepers should not be used in places where there may be frequent human contact, but they are still ideal for many construction type projects.

Once you have chosen your sleeper it is important to consider how you will lock your sleepers together when commencing your project. I would recommend making use of timberlok landscaping screws. These screws are easy to use and will form a solid joint between your sleepers.

To get some more help and advice on which sleeper would be best for your next garden project or to get a quote, I would suggest you contact a local stockist. If you are based in Sussex, Surrey or Cambridgeshire I would recommend you contact AVS Fencing Supplies Ltd; check out their website at www.AVSFencing.co.uk/Retail