How to build a staggered sleeper screen?

ElliotWB

I’m planning on building a staggered, low sleeper screen as a front fence but there are termites in the surrounding bushland.

 

I’ve got a couple of reference photos below, but mine would be much lower, probably no higher than 1.2m. Spacing would be about 60cm apart. 

 

I was thinking stirrups be the best way to deter termites, but I’ve heard they can put localised pressure on the timber over time.

 

Is it worth using stirrups or just putting the timber straight in the ground with bitumen paint?

 

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @ElliotWB. It's fantastic to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about sleepers.

Great idea on the staggered sleeper screen. It’ll give you a nice modern look without being too imposing at that height. Since you’ve mentioned termites in the area, it’s definitely worth putting a bit of extra thought into how you build it so you don’t end up with problems down the line.

You’re right that stirrups are the better choice if you want to deter termites. Setting posts in stirrups keeps the timber out of the ground, which removes that constant soil-to-wood contact where termites thrive. The “localised pressure” issue you’ve heard about is more relevant to tall, heavy structures where loads are significant. For a low 1.2m decorative screen, stirrups will easily handle the weight and wind load provided you concrete them in properly.

On the other hand, putting timber directly into the ground (even with bitumen paint or end-sealers) will always carry some risk, especially in an area with known termite activity. The coating slows decay, but once scratched or damaged during installation, moisture and insects can still get in.

If you want a really low-maintenance option, it might be worth considering using something like the Ridgi 150 x 50mm 1.5m Ironbark Reinforced Concrete Sleeper instead of timber. These are reinforced concrete, termite-proof, and won’t rot, but still give the look of hardwood sleepers. They can be set up in a staggered style just like timber and will save you the worry of termites altogether.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell