An installed concrete sleeper quote should identify the sleepers, posts, footings, preparation and drainage, with separate allowances clearly shown.
How to calculate the wall-face area
For a rectangular section, multiply the length by the wall-face height used in the quote.
A 10 m section at 1 m high represents 10 m2; a 5 m section at 0.6 m high represents 3 m2.
Together, those example sections represent 13 m2 of wall face.
Ask the contractor how stepped sections, buried components and changes in level are treated in their measurements.
| Example section | Calculation | Face area |
|---|---|---|
| Section A | 10 m x 1 m | 10 m2 |
| Section B | 5 m x 0.6 m | 3 m2 |
| Combined example | 10 m2 + 3 m2 | 13 m2 |
Supply-only and installed quotes
A price for individual sleepers describes a product purchase.
A quote for an installed wall should also identify the supporting structure and site work required by the design.
Ask for a complete total as well as the m2 rate so the effect of separate allowances is visible.
| Item | Question for the quote |
|---|---|
| Sleepers and posts | Which products, finish and quantities are specified? |
| Footings and installation | What design is the installation based on? |
| Excavation and access | Is machine access available and is spoil disposal included? |
| Drainage and backfill | Which materials, outlet and associated work are allowed for? |
| Removal and reinstatement | What happens to the old wall, fence and surrounding surfaces? |
What changes the installed cost?
Give the contractor the maximum wall height, access width and nearby structures when requesting pricing.
The work involved in replacing an existing wall can differ from building on a prepared site.
Ask how uncertain ground conditions will be handled in the quote and how any additional work would be approved.
For a wall with a fence, have both elements considered together in the project brief.
Turn a rate into a comparable project quote
Use the same dimensions, finish and site photographs for each enquiry.
Ask the contractor to state GST, exclusions and the validity period alongside the total.
Discuss design and approval requirements with the appropriate building professional before agreeing to the final construction scope.
Common questions
Is cost per m2 the same as cost per metre?
No, m2 measures wall-face area and a lineal metre measures length, so include the height when comparing rates.
Can the example area be used as an installation estimate?
It demonstrates measurement only; a contractor needs to assess the design and site to price the work.
What should I send with my enquiry?
Include dimensions, suburb, access details, finish preference and any plans, plus photographs if they're available.