Part 3 – How to Install Composite Sleepers on a Retaining Wall
OVERVIEW
In this part, all your hard work will start to come together! Now that you’ve installed the posts, it’s time to place the composite sleepers in the posts and secure them. In this part, we’ll cover:
- Placing the composite sleepers in the posts
- Securing the sleepers for minimal movement
- Optional: How to attach sleeper caps
Step 1: Place the composite sleepers in the posts
Tip: lay the required number of sleepers for each bay, in front of where you need them to work faster!
First, you’ll need to position the composite sleeper supports in place. You’ll need x2 at the base of each sleeper bay – 1 on the left side and 1 on the right. These supports act as a foundation for the first sleeper to sit flat and distribute the vertical weight of the wall evenly.
Composite SuperSleepers feature a tongue and groove system, making them easy to install. Place the first composite sleeper at the bottom of each bay, making sure to slot the tongue of the sleeper into the groove of the sleeper support. The outward groove on the sleeper should always face up.
Step 2: Secure the composite sleepers in the posts
After placing each sleeper in the posts, you should secure each one with a wedge support at the back, on each side (each sleeper requires x2 wedges).
Retaining wall wedges securely hold the sleeper in place within the post. Without a retaining wall wedge, the sleepers will move around due to the posts being a larger width than the sleepers.
Optional: How to attach sleeper caps
SuperSleeper Composite Sleeper Caps are an extra feature you can add to your retaining wall for a polished look. The caps create a flat top, free of mess for the top of the retaining wall.
To install them, you’ll need to place x1 Sleeper Support on top of the final sleeper in the middle. This holds the capping in place. Then, simply place on top of the final sleeper in each bay. The sleeper caps should fit over the tops of the composite posts as well, encompassing both sleeper and posts within the lip of the cap.
