Concrete Gravel Boards
(4 Products)Concrete gravel boards function as structural supports at the base of fencing, offering resistance to moisture, soil pressure, and weather-related movement through their reinforced concrete design.
What Are Concrete Gravel Boards?
Concrete gravel boards are placed at the bottom of fence panels to act as a physical barrier between the panel and the ground.
Timber, when left in contact with soil or exposed to consistent dampness, is prone to rot. Even pressure-treated wood will degrade over time when exposed to such conditions.
By elevating the wooden fence panel slightly above ground level, a concrete gravel board helps eliminate direct contact with moisture, pests, and shifting soil. This small adjustment can dramatically extend the life of a fence.
In terms of construction, concrete gravel boards are typically reinforced with steel rods or mesh to improve tensile strength and prevent cracking over time.
They’re cast in moulds to standard dimensions (usually six feet in length and either six or twelve inches in height). The thickness is generally consistent enough to provide stability without being overly bulky.
Some boards are plain-faced for a clean, minimalist look, while others feature a recessed or patterned finish that complements garden designs where visual consistency is important.
Installation Best Practises
Installation should always be carried out with precision. These boards are heavy - typically weighing between 25 and 40 kilograms depending on size and composition - so handling usually requires two people.
When fitting them between slotted concrete posts, it’s essential to ensure that both ends are seated securely and that the board is resting level. Uneven placement at this stage will affect the alignment of the entire fence line.
In properties built on uneven terrain, gravel boards can also serve a secondary purpose as a subtle retaining element.
Although not a replacement for proper retaining walls, they can help step fence panels across gentle slopes, avoiding awkward gaps at the base of the fence. When this is done correctly, the result is both functional and visually cohesive.
Timber vs Concrete Gravel Boards
Choosing concrete over timber gravel boards is a decision grounded in durability. Timber gravel boards, although easier to install and lighter to handle, require frequent treatment and are more susceptible to decay.
Concrete, by contrast, offers a service life that can exceed two or even three decades with no need for maintenance. It doesn’t warp, doesn’t rot, and isn’t affected by insects.
For anyone looking to invest in a fence that won’t require major upkeep in five or ten years, concrete is clearly the more robust option.
Frequently Asked Concrete Gravel Boards Questions
Can I Paint Or Stain My Concrete Gravel Boards?
Yes, concrete gravel boards can be painted or stained to match your fence panels and outdoor decor.
Can You Use Concrete Gravel Boards With Wooden Posts?
Concrete gravel boards can be easily incorporated into both existing concrete fence posts by simply inserting them, or when used with wooden fence posts require the added use of gravel board brackets.
What Is A Recessed Concrete Gravel Board?
A recessed concrete gravel board features a shallow indented panel or “recess” in its face. This design is mostly decorative and helps create a uniform appearance when used with fence panels that have similar detailing.
Recessed gravel boards are functionally the same as plain boards but offer a more refined look in domestic settings.
Can I Use Concrete Gravel Boards On Sloped Ground?
Yes. On sloped ground, gravel boards can be stepped along with the fence line to follow the gradient. This approach (called "stepping") helps maintain fence alignment while preventing gaps at the bottom of panels.
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