Solid Oak Cube

Crafted from oak heartwood|Suitable for outside use, but can be used internally|Ideal plinth for garden features|Novel garden seating|Choice of sizes|Cubes might be cut to order , lead time might apply| cubes can sometimes not have perfectly cut edges|Our cubes are stored outside, to assist the seasoning process
|oak cubes might arrive to you weathered or partially silvered down
|Oak cubes may contain natural splits, cracks, and areas of sapwood|For an additional fee, cubes can be restored through sanding and oiling
|Pictured oak cube has been oiled|Please note- cubes used internally will be more prone to splitting

Cut from European Oak cubes and plinths are suitable for outside use. They can be used internally however, splits will occur as cubes are drying. They are an ideal plinth for garden features or a novel garden seating

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Oak beams, plinths, and sleepers are robust and heavy, requiring careful handling during delivery. These items are typically delivered using our own fleet or trusted third-party hauliers. Due to their weight and size, delivery charges are calculated based on distance, dimensions, and overall weight. Please note that assistance may be required on-site to offload. For more details, please visit our Delivery Terms & Conditions

Our oak beams, plinths, and sleepers are versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications, from structural support to decorative landscaping. Given their weight and durability, professional installation is often recommended. However, if you’re taking on a DIY project, we can provide helpful tips and guidance to ensure safe and effective use. Don’t hesitate to contact us for advice tailored to your specific project.

Oak is naturally durable and low-maintenance, requiring minimal care over time. To preserve the appearance of your beams, plinths, or sleepers, we recommend periodic cleaning and the application of protective treatments if they are exposed to the elements. Left untreated, oak will gracefully weather to a silver-grey patina. For more detailed care instructions or advice on protective finishes, our team is always on hand to assist.

Installation Guide for Hardwood and Softwood Sleepers

Introduction

Timber sleepers are widely used for landscaping, garden edging, retaining walls, and structural features. Correct installation ensures stability, longevity, and safety. This guide covers installation for both hardwood (e.g. oak) and softwood (e.g. pine) sleepers.

Tools & Materials Needed

• Hardwood or softwood sleepers
• Crushed stone or gravel (for drainage)
• Spirit level
• Tape measure
• Drill and screws (or coach bolts)
• Hammer or mallet
• Sleeper Staple Pins (Timber Dogs)
• Saw
• Protective gloves

Step-by-Step Installation

1. Prepare the Base

• Excavate the area where sleepers or beams will sit.
• Lay a compacted gravel base for drainage and stability.
• Ensure the base is level using a spirit level.

2. Position the Sleepers or Beams

• Arrange sleepers in the desired layout (horizontal or vertical).
• For retaining walls, stagger joints for strength.

3. Secure the Sleepers

• Option A: Screws or Bolts
  • Drill pilot holes and use heavy-duty screws or coach bolts to join sleepers.
• Option B: Sleeper Staple Pins (Timber Dogs)
  • Drive Timber Dogs diagonally across adjoining sleepers using a hammer or mallet.
  • These heavy-duty steel staples bite into the timber, locking sleepers together without drilling.
  • Ideal for rustic projects or where speed and strength are priorities.

4. Check Alignment

• Use a spirit level to ensure sleepers are straight and level.
• Adjust as needed before final fixing.

5. Backfill and Finish

• Backfill behind retaining walls with gravel for drainage.
• Compact soil around sleepers for stability.
• Apply a wood preservative or oil for added protection.

Differences Between Hardwood and Softwood

• Hardwood (e.g. Oak):
  • Extremely durable, ideal for heavy-duty applications.
  • Requires pre-drilling for screws/bolts.
  • Timber Dogs may need extra force to drive in.
• Softwood (e.g. Pine):
  • Easier to cut and drill.
  • Timber Dogs penetrate easily.
  • Requires treatment for outdoor use to prevent rot.

Maintenance Tips

• Inspect annually for movement or rot.
• Reapply wood preservative every 2–3 years.
• Check Timber Dogs for corrosion and replace if necessary.

Care & Maintenance Guide for Timber Sleepers, Beams & Plinths (Hardwood & Softwood)

Introduction

Timber sleepers, beams, and plinths add strength and natural beauty to landscaping and construction projects. Whether hardwood (e.g. oak) or softwood (e.g. pine), proper care ensures longevity and structural integrity. This guide explains how to maintain these components effectively.

1. Initial Treatment

• Hardwood (Oak, Teak, etc.):
  • Apply a penetrating oil or preservative immediately after installation to protect against moisture and UV damage.
  • Seal end grains to prevent splitting.
• Softwood (Pine, Spruce, etc.):
  • Use a high-quality wood preservative or pressure-treated timber for outdoor use.
  • Apply a water-repellent finish for added protection.

2. Regular Cleaning

• Remove dirt and debris with a stiff brush.
• Wash with mild soap and water annually.
• Avoid pressure washing at high PSI—it can damage fibres.

3. Moisture Protection

• Ensure proper drainage around sleepers and beams to prevent water pooling.
• For ground-contact timber, use a damp-proof membrane or gravel base to reduce rot risk.

4. UV Protection

• Reapply UV-protective oil or stain every 2–3 years to maintain colour and prevent greying.
• If a natural weathered look is desired, skip UV treatment—but expect faster colour change.

5. Inspect and Repair

• Check for cracks, splits, or signs of rot annually.
• Replace severely damaged sections promptly.
• Tighten or replace fixings as needed.

6. Differences in Maintenance

• Hardwood:
  • More durable and rot-resistant but benefits from oiling for colour retention.
  • Less frequent treatment required (every 3–5 years).
• Softwood:
  • Requires more frequent treatment (every 1–2 years).
  • More prone to rot and insect attack without preservative.

Extra Tips

• Avoid film-forming finishes outdoors—they can peel over time.
• Use stainless steel or galvanized fixings to prevent staining from rust.

Pros & Cons Summary

Hardwood

• Pros: Long lifespan, high strength, premium look.
• Cons: Higher cost, heavier, harder to cut.

Softwood

• Pros: Affordable, easier to work with.
• Cons: Shorter lifespan, needs more maintenance.