Gravel Boards
(19 Products)A gravel board is a wooden, concrete, or composite board used to protect your fence against wet soil, debris, and insect damage. Gravel boards are usually around 140-150mm in height and positioned underneath your fence panels. In essence, gravel boards are utilised to improve the lifespan of your fencing; they act as a barrier between your fence and damp ground. The additional height helps to prevent moisture damage by preventing direct contact with wet so
What Are Gravel Boards?
Gravel boards are horizontal boards placed at the base of fence panels to protect them from ground-level moisture, pests, and soil debris.
They help prevent direct contact between the fence and the damp soil, which reduces the risk of rot and decay in wooden fences and corrosion in metal fences, thus extending the fence's lifespan.
Benefits of Using Gravel Boards
- Increased Durability: Shields the bottom of fences from moisture and pests, extending the fence's life.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
- Enhanced Appearance: Provides a clean, finished look to fence lines.
- Versatility: Available in various materials and styles to suit different needs and designs.
Types of Gravel Boards
Concrete Gravel Boards
Concrete gravel boards provide a sturdy foundation for fencing, especially in areas with high winds or frequent storms. They slot easily into concrete fence posts and are highly durable but can be heavy and less aesthetically pleasing. Installation generally requires two people.
Wooden Gravel Boards
Wooden gravel boards are a more affordable option and complement decorative fence panels well. They are flexible in terms of compatibility with both concrete and wooden posts but are prone to rot over time. They are often used as a 'sacrificial' piece that can be easily replaced when needed.
Composite Gravel Boards
Composite gravel boards offer a balance of durability and aesthetics. They are maintenance-free, resistant to rot, cracking, and warping, and come in various colours and finishes. However, they are typically used with a full composite fencing system, which can be more expensive.
How Do You Stop Gravel Boards from Sinking?
To prevent gravel boards from sinking:
- Proper Installation: Ensure gravel boards are installed on a firm, level base. Avoid installing them directly into loose or sandy soil. Placing a layer of compacted hardcore or crushed stone underneath can help enhance stability.
- Check for Drainage Issues: Ensure that water drains away from the base of the fence to avoid undermining the gravel boards.
- Regular Maintenance: Inspect and maintain the base area regularly to address any signs of erosion or sinking.
Frequently Asked Gravel Boards Questions
Can Gravel Boards Hold Back Soil?
Gravel boards can hold back a small amount of soil, but they are primarily designed to protect fences from moisture and debris rather than to act as soil retention barriers.
For significant soil retention, it is advisable to use additional landscaping solutions such as retaining walls or barriers designed specifically for soil containment. Gravel boards are more effective at providing a clean separation between the fence and the ground.
Are Gravel Boards Essential?
As they are not strictly necessary for every garden fence, installing gravel boards may initially appear to be an additional and unnecessary expense. However, they will actually save you money by increasing the durability of your fence in the long run.
Not only do gravel boards close up any gaps at the bottom of your fence, but they also make it look neater and cleaner overall. Plus, you'll get the added benefit of complete privacy.
They’re also great at preventing damage to your panels caused by:
- Lawn mowers
- Strimmers
- Digging/fork/spadework
- Impact damage from sports and ball games
We understand that every customer has unique needs, so we make sure to stock a range of timber and concrete gravel boards in a variety of heights and lengths. Whether you're more concerned with making sure your fence is visually appealing or want it to last as long as possible, we have the right board for you.
How Long Does a Gravel Board Last?
The lifespan of a gravel board depends largely on its composition. If it is made from untreated wood, then it will likely only last a few years before replacement is necessary. However, if high-quality pressure-treated wood was used, the gravel board can reasonably last up to seven or eight years.
Concrete gravel boards, on the other hand, are a whole different story. As concrete is largely resistant to damp and moisture, as long as it sustained no damage, these types of gravel boards could theoretically last a lifetime.
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