How to Choose the Right Gravel Boards
Choosing the correct gravel boards helps protect timber fence panels from direct ground contact while creating a neat and stable base beneath the fence. The right option will depend on the post system, panel type, required finished height, preferred appearance and level of maintenance.
Sky Fencing supplies both concrete gravel boards and wooden gravel boards for replacement fencing and complete new installations.
Concrete Gravel Boards
Concrete gravel boards provide a durable barrier between timber fence panels and the ground. They are commonly installed between slotted concrete fence posts, with the gravel board positioned below the panel inside the post slots.
Concrete does not rot and requires less ongoing maintenance than timber, making concrete gravel boards a practical choice where durability is a priority. Their weight also creates a substantial base beneath the fencing.
Wooden Gravel Boards
Wooden gravel boards provide a traditional all-timber appearance and work particularly well with wooden fence posts. They help raise the fence panel above soil, grass and garden debris while maintaining a consistent timber finish across the fence run.
As an outdoor timber product, a wooden gravel board should be inspected periodically and kept clear of excessive soil, standing water and damp garden waste wherever possible.
Plain Concrete Gravel Boards
Plain concrete gravel boards provide a simple and practical finish beneath the fence. They are suitable where customers want the strength and durability of concrete without a decorative face.
The plain appearance works well for side boundaries, rear gardens and installations where the gravel board is intended to remain visually unobtrusive.
Recessed Concrete Gravel Boards
Recessed concrete gravel boards feature a framed face that gives the base of the fence a more defined appearance. They are a popular choice for traditional panel fencing installed with slotted concrete posts.
The recessed design adds visual detail while retaining the durability and low-maintenance benefits of concrete.
Rock-Face Concrete Gravel Boards
Rock-face concrete gravel boards have a textured decorative finish designed to create a more distinctive base beneath the fence. They may be preferred where the gravel board will remain clearly visible and appearance is an important part of the completed installation.
Consider how the finish will look alongside the selected fence panels, posts and surrounding garden before ordering.
Choosing the Correct Gravel Board Height
Gravel boards are available in different heights. The selected height will affect both the amount of protection below the timber panel and the overall finished height of the fence.
For example, a 5ft 6in panel installed above a 6-inch gravel board will create an overall fence height of approximately 6ft. A 5ft panel installed above a 12-inch gravel board will achieve a similar result.
Always calculate the panel and gravel board height together before selecting the required fence posts.
Check the Gravel Board Length
The gravel board must fit correctly between the chosen posts and match the width of the fence panel system. Check the individual product dimensions rather than relying only on nominal measurements, especially when replacing part of an older fence.
Existing post spacing may differ from current standard sizes, so measure the opening carefully before ordering a replacement gravel board.
Match the Gravel Board to the Post System
Concrete gravel boards are commonly used with slotted concrete posts because they can be lowered directly into the post slots. Wooden gravel boards are normally fixed to wooden posts using suitable exterior-grade fixings.
Before ordering, confirm that the selected panels, posts and gravel boards are compatible and suitable for the intended finished fence height.
Concrete vs Wooden Gravel Boards
Concrete and wooden gravel boards both raise timber fence panels above direct ground contact, but they differ in appearance, weight, maintenance and installation. The best option will depend on the fence posts being used and the finish you want to achieve.
| Feature | Concrete Gravel Boards | Wooden Gravel Boards |
|---|
| Appearance | Solid concrete base available in plain, recessed and decorative finishes | Traditional timber finish that matches wooden posts and panels |
| Common post system | Usually installed between slotted concrete fence posts | Usually fixed to wooden fence posts |
| Maintenance | Will not rot and requires relatively little routine maintenance | Should be inspected and maintained as an outdoor timber product |
| Handling | Heavy and normally requires careful lifting during installation | Lighter and easier to cut or fix where required |
| Best suited to | Durable slotted concrete-post fencing systems | Traditional all-timber fencing installations |
Concrete Gravel Boards
Appearance:
Solid concrete base available in plain, recessed and decorative finishes.
Common post system:
Usually installed between slotted concrete fence posts.
Maintenance:
Will not rot and requires relatively little routine maintenance.
Handling:
Heavy and normally requires careful lifting during installation.
Best suited to:
Durable slotted concrete-post fencing systems.
Wooden Gravel Boards
Appearance:
Traditional timber finish that matches wooden posts and panels.
Common post system:
Usually fixed to wooden fence posts.
Maintenance:
Should be inspected and maintained as an outdoor timber product.
Handling:
Lighter and easier to cut or fix where required.
Best suited to:
Traditional all-timber fencing installations.
When Should You Choose Concrete Gravel Boards?
Concrete gravel boards are a practical choice where durability and reduced maintenance are important. They are commonly installed between slotted concrete fence posts, creating a complete system that keeps timber panels raised above soil and garden debris.
They may also be preferred where the gravel board will remain visible and a plain, recessed or rock-face finish is required beneath the fence panels.
When Should You Choose Wooden Gravel Boards?
Wooden gravel boards are well suited to fencing installed with wooden fence posts. They maintain a consistent timber appearance and can be cut or fixed more easily where the installation requires adjustment.
Wooden gravel boards should be kept clear of excessive soil, standing water and damp garden debris wherever possible, and any cut ends should be protected using a suitable timber preservative.
Choose the Complete Fencing System Together
The gravel board, fence panel and posts should be selected as one compatible system. Concrete and wooden gravel boards can differ in thickness, length and fixing method, so check the individual product dimensions before ordering.
Remember that the gravel board height will increase the overall finished height of the fence and may affect the required post length.
Choosing the Correct Gravel Board Height and Finish
Gravel boards are available in different heights and finishes, allowing the base of the fence to be matched to the panel size, ground level and preferred appearance. The right choice will affect both the protection provided beneath the timber panel and the overall finished height of the fence.
6-Inch Gravel Boards
A 6-inch gravel board provides a practical barrier between the timber fence panel and the ground without adding excessive height to the completed fence.
They are commonly paired with a 5ft 6in fence panel where an overall height of approximately 6ft is required. The final installed height may vary slightly depending on the ground level and installation.
12-Inch Gravel Boards
A 12-inch gravel board creates a taller and more substantial base beneath the fence. It may be useful where there is a greater change in ground level, where more of the concrete base needs to remain visible or where additional separation is required between the timber panel and the surrounding ground.
A 5ft fence panel installed above a 12-inch gravel board will create an overall fence height of approximately 6ft.
Plain Concrete Gravel Boards
Plain concrete gravel boards provide a simple and practical finish. Their smooth, understated appearance works well where the main purpose of the gravel board is to protect the timber panel and provide a durable base.
They are suitable for rear gardens, side boundaries and fencing installations where a decorative concrete face is not required.
Recessed Concrete Gravel Boards
Recessed gravel boards have a framed panel-style face that creates a more defined and traditional appearance beneath the fencing.
They are a popular choice for garden boundaries fitted with slotted concrete posts and timber fence panels, particularly where the gravel board will remain clearly visible.
Rock-Face Concrete Gravel Boards
Rock-face gravel boards feature a textured decorative surface that gives the base of the fence a more distinctive finish.
They may be preferred where appearance is an important part of the installation and the customer wants an alternative to a plain or recessed concrete board.
Wooden Gravel Board Sizes
Wooden gravel boards are available in different lengths and dimensions to suit timber-post fencing systems. Check the individual product details carefully and confirm that the board will fit correctly between the selected posts.
Where a wooden gravel board needs to be cut during installation, protect the newly exposed timber using a suitable cut-end preservative.
Allow for Changes in Ground Level
Gravel boards can help create a neat base where the ground level changes along the fence line. On sloping ground, the fencing may need to be installed in stepped sections so the panels and gravel boards remain properly supported.
Plan every change in level before setting the posts, as the gravel board height and panel position will affect the required post length.
Measure Replacement Gravel Boards Carefully
When replacing an existing gravel board, measure the opening between the posts as well as the board height and thickness. Older fencing systems may not always match current standard dimensions exactly.
Do not force a gravel board into post slots that are too narrow. Check that the replacement board is compatible before removing the existing fencing section.
Installing Gravel Boards Correctly
Correct installation helps gravel boards support the fence panels, remain level and protect the timber from direct contact with damp ground. Before starting, confirm that the selected gravel boards are compatible with the fence posts, panel width and intended finished fence height.
Plan the Complete Fence Line
Mark the position of the fence and identify any changes in ground level before installing the posts. Decide whether the fence will remain level, follow the slope or be installed in stepped sections.
Measure the actual gravel boards, fence panels and posts rather than relying only on nominal sizes. Correct spacing is important because boards should fit securely without being forced between the posts.
Installing Concrete Gravel Boards
Concrete gravel boards are commonly installed between slotted concrete fence posts. Once the posts are correctly positioned and secure, the gravel board is carefully lowered into the slots before the fence panel is installed above it.
Concrete gravel boards are heavy and should be handled using suitable lifting methods and enough people to position them safely. Avoid dropping the board into the post slots, as this may damage the board, posts or surrounding property.
Installing Wooden Gravel Boards
Wooden gravel boards are normally fixed between or against wooden fence posts using suitable corrosion-resistant exterior fixings.
The board should be level, securely supported and positioned so the timber fence panel sits above it without unnecessary gaps. Fixings should be appropriate for exterior timber and installed without splitting the gravel board or post.
Keep Gravel Boards Level
Check the level of each gravel board as the fence run progresses. A small difference at the first section can become increasingly noticeable across a longer boundary.
Where the ground slopes, install the gravel boards in planned stepped sections rather than leaving them unsupported or forcing them to follow an unsuitable angle.
Allow for the Fence Panel Above
The gravel board must provide a stable base beneath the selected fence panel. Check that the panel fits correctly between the posts and rests evenly above the gravel board.
Do not use the fence panel to hold an unstable gravel board in position. The posts and gravel board should already be properly aligned and supported before the panel is fitted.
Setting the Fence Posts
The posts must be correctly spaced and securely installed before the gravel boards are positioned. Suitable post concrete can be used when installing compatible wooden or concrete posts, following the product instructions.
Check the spacing with the actual gravel board before the post concrete has fully set. Correcting the distance between posts afterwards can be difficult.
Protect Cut Wooden Gravel Boards
If a wooden gravel board is cut during installation, coat the newly exposed timber with a suitable cut-end or end-grain preservative. This helps protect the cut surface where the original pressure treatment may have been removed.
Check the Finished Fence Height
The gravel board increases the overall height of the completed fence. Confirm the combined panel and gravel board height before installation and make sure the selected posts are suitable for both the visible fence height and the section installed below ground.
Caring for Gravel Boards
Gravel boards help protect timber fence panels from direct contact with damp ground, but they should still be checked periodically as part of the complete fencing system. The maintenance required will depend on whether the installation uses concrete or wooden gravel boards.
Caring for Concrete Gravel Boards
Concrete gravel boards require relatively little routine maintenance because they will not rot. Inspect them occasionally for movement, impact damage or significant cracking, particularly after strong winds, ground movement or accidental contact.
Minor surface marks and small cosmetic imperfections may occur during handling and outdoor use, but a board showing substantial structural damage should be assessed before it continues supporting the fence panel above.
Caring for Wooden Gravel Boards
Wooden gravel boards should be inspected as outdoor timber products. Check for movement, damaged fixings, excessive moisture, large splits or areas where soil and garden debris have built up against the board.
Keeping the surrounding ground clear can help reduce prolonged contact with damp material and makes it easier to inspect the gravel board and lower edge of the fence panel.
Keep Soil and Garden Debris Clear
Leaves, grass cuttings, soil and other garden waste should not be allowed to build up unnecessarily along the base of the fence. Damp debris can trap moisture against wooden gravel boards and may hide movement or damage in concrete boards.
Maintain a clear area along the fence line wherever practical so water can drain away and the gravel boards remain visible for inspection.
Cleaning Gravel Boards
General dirt and surface growth can normally be removed using a stiff brush and clean water. Take care not to use excessive pressure around damaged concrete or weathered timber.
Avoid allowing cleaning products to run onto surrounding plants, lawns or timber fence panels unless the product is suitable for those surfaces.
Protect Cut Wooden Gravel Boards
If a pressure-treated wooden gravel board is cut during installation or repair, apply a suitable cut-end or end-grain preservative to the exposed timber. Follow the preservative manufacturer’s preparation and application instructions.
Check the Fixings and Supports
Wooden gravel boards fixed to timber posts should be checked for loose, damaged or corroded fixings. Concrete boards installed between slotted posts should remain properly seated and evenly supported.
If a gravel board has moved, determine whether the problem is caused by the board itself, the fence posts, ground movement or pressure from the surrounding soil before carrying out a repair.
Inspect After Severe Weather
Check the gravel boards after strong winds, storms or flooding. A leaning post or moving fence panel can place additional pressure on the board beneath it, while changes in the surrounding ground may affect its level and support.
Addressing movement early can help prevent further damage to the posts, gravel boards and fence panels.
When Should a Gravel Board Be Replaced?
A gravel board may need replacing if it is badly cracked, broken, extensively decayed or no longer capable of supporting and separating the fence panel from the ground.
Measure the existing opening carefully and check the post system before ordering a replacement, as older gravel boards and post spacing may not always match current standard dimensions exactly.
What Do You Need to Install Gravel Boards?
A complete gravel board installation normally requires compatible fence posts, fence panels, post concrete and suitable fixings. Selecting the full fencing system together helps ensure that every component fits correctly and reaches the intended finished height.
Compatible Fence Posts
The gravel board must match the selected post system. Concrete gravel boards are commonly installed between slotted concrete fence posts, while wooden gravel boards are normally fitted to wooden fence posts.
Check the gravel board length, thickness and fixing method before installing the posts. Once the posts have been permanently set, correcting unsuitable spacing can be difficult.
Fence Panels
The selected fence panels should fit correctly above the gravel boards and between the chosen posts. Confirm the panel width and height together with the gravel board dimensions before ordering.
The gravel board provides the base beneath the panel, so both products should sit evenly without being forced into the post slots or leaving the panel unsupported.
Post Concrete
Fence posts must be securely installed before the gravel boards and panels are fitted. Suitable post concrete can be used when setting compatible wooden or concrete posts, following the individual product instructions.
The amount required will depend on the post size, hole dimensions and ground conditions. Calculate the quantity needed for the complete fence run before installation begins.
Exterior Fixings for Wooden Gravel Boards
Wooden gravel boards normally require suitable corrosion-resistant exterior fixings or brackets when installed with wooden posts. The fixings should provide secure support without splitting the timber.
Concrete gravel boards installed between slotted concrete posts normally sit within the post slots and do not require the same fixings used for an all-timber installation.
Cut-End Preservative
If a pressure-treated wooden gravel board needs to be shortened, apply a suitable cut-end or end-grain preservative to the newly exposed timber. This helps protect the area where the original treated surface has been removed.
Suitable Tools and Lifting Equipment
Installation may require suitable measuring, levelling, digging and fixing tools. Concrete gravel boards are heavy, so use appropriate lifting methods, enough people and suitable protective equipment when handling them.
Do not drop concrete boards into the post slots or attempt to lift heavy products without sufficient support.
Check the Complete Order Before Installation
Before beginning the work, confirm the number, length, height and finish of the gravel boards, together with the correct posts, fence panels, post concrete and fixings.
Ordering compatible components together reduces the risk of delays and helps ensure that the finished fence reaches the required height and appearance.
Why Buy Gravel Boards from Sky Fencing?
Sky Fencing supplies gravel boards for replacement fencing, garden boundaries, landscaping projects and complete new fence installations. Our range includes concrete and timber options in different sizes and finishes, helping homeowners and trade customers choose a suitable base for their fencing system.
Concrete and Wooden Options
Choose from durable concrete gravel boards for compatible slotted fencing systems or pressure-treated wooden gravel boards for a traditional all-timber installation.
Offering both materials makes it easier to select a gravel board that matches the chosen fence posts, panel style, maintenance preference and overall appearance of the garden.
A Choice of Concrete Finishes
Our concrete gravel board range includes plain, recessed and rock-face designs. Plain boards provide a simple and practical base, recessed boards create a more defined framed appearance, and rock-face boards offer a textured decorative finish.
The finish can be selected to complement the fence panels, concrete posts and surrounding garden, particularly where the gravel board will remain clearly visible.
Different Heights and Sizes Available
Gravel boards are available in different heights and lengths to suit a range of fencing projects. This allows customers to account for the required finished fence height, changes in ground level and the dimensions of an existing installation.
Check the individual product measurements carefully before ordering, especially when replacing a gravel board between existing posts.
Complete Fencing Materials Available
Alongside gravel boards, Sky Fencing supplies compatible concrete fence posts, wooden fence posts, fence panels, post concrete and fencing accessories.
Ordering the main components together can make planning easier and reduce the risk of discovering that products are missing or incompatible once installation has started.
Suitable for Replacement and New Fencing
Gravel boards can be purchased individually when replacing a damaged section or ordered in larger quantities for a complete new fence run. Measure the existing post spacing, board thickness and required height before selecting a replacement.
Available to Public and Trade Customers
Our gravel boards are available to homeowners, landscapers, builders and fencing contractors. Whether you need one replacement board or materials for a larger project, the range can be ordered alongside the remaining fencing components.
Delivery and Collection Available
Orders can be arranged for delivery throughout the Sky Fencing delivery area or collected once they have been prepared and confirmed as ready. Delivery availability, minimum order requirements and charges depend on the delivery postcode and order value.
Practical Advice Before Ordering
The correct gravel board must match the post system, panel width and intended finished fence height. Our team can help customers understand the available concrete and wooden options before placing an order.
Gravel Board FAQs
What is a gravel board?
A gravel board is installed beneath a timber fence panel to keep the lower edge raised away from direct contact with soil, grass, moisture and garden debris. It also creates a defined base beneath the completed fence.
Do I need gravel boards under fence panels?
Gravel boards are recommended beneath timber fence panels because they help protect the bottom of the panel from prolonged ground contact. They can also make damaged panels easier to replace in the future.
Should I choose concrete or wooden gravel boards?
Concrete gravel boards are commonly selected for durability and reduced maintenance, particularly with slotted concrete posts. Wooden gravel boards provide a traditional timber finish and work well with wooden fence posts.
Do concrete gravel boards rot?
No. Concrete gravel boards will not rot, making them a practical option where customers want a durable barrier between timber fence panels and the ground.
Are wooden gravel boards pressure treated?
Sky Fencing supplies pressure-treated wooden gravel boards. Check the individual product description before ordering to confirm the exact dimensions, treatment and intended use.
What gravel board heights are available?
Common options include 6-inch and 12-inch gravel boards, although the exact sizes available depend on the selected material and product range. Check the individual listings for current dimensions.
Does a gravel board increase the overall fence height?
Yes. The finished fence height includes both the panel and the gravel board beneath it. For example, a 5ft 6in panel above a 6-inch gravel board will create an overall height of approximately 6ft.
What is the difference between plain and recessed gravel boards?
Plain concrete gravel boards have a simple, understated face. Recessed gravel boards have a framed design that creates a more defined and traditional appearance beneath the fence panel.
What is a rock-face gravel board?
A rock-face gravel board has a textured decorative surface. It may be preferred where the concrete base will remain visible and customers want a more distinctive finish than a plain or recessed board.
Can concrete gravel boards be used with wooden posts?
Concrete gravel boards are most commonly installed between slotted concrete posts. Alternative installations may require suitable brackets or supports, so check that the complete system is compatible before ordering.
Can wooden gravel boards be used with concrete posts?
Wooden gravel boards are normally fixed to wooden posts. Slotted concrete-post systems are generally designed for compatible concrete gravel boards, so check the dimensions and installation requirements before combining different materials.
How are concrete gravel boards installed?
Compatible concrete gravel boards are normally lowered into the slots between slotted concrete fence posts before the fence panel is positioned above them.
How are wooden gravel boards installed?
Wooden gravel boards are normally secured to wooden fence posts using suitable corrosion-resistant exterior fixings or brackets. The board should remain level and properly supported beneath the panel.
Are concrete gravel boards heavy?
Yes. Concrete gravel boards are heavy and should be handled using suitable lifting methods, enough people and appropriate protective equipment. Avoid dropping them into post slots during installation.
Can gravel boards be installed on sloping ground?
Yes. On sloping ground, gravel boards and fence panels are commonly installed in stepped sections. Plan the changes in level before setting the posts so every board remains properly supported.
Can wooden gravel boards be cut?
Wooden gravel boards can be cut where required for a suitable installation. Apply a compatible cut-end or end-grain preservative to any newly exposed pressure-treated timber.
Can concrete gravel boards be cut?
Concrete gravel boards should not be cut unless suitable equipment, experience and safety precautions are available. It is generally better to choose a board that matches the required post spacing.
How do I measure for a replacement gravel board?
Measure the opening between the posts together with the height and thickness of the existing board. Older fencing installations may not always match current standard dimensions, so check carefully before ordering.
Can I replace a gravel board without replacing the fence panel?
In some installations, a damaged gravel board can be replaced while retaining the existing panel and posts. The surrounding fencing must be safely supported while the board is removed and replaced.
How should gravel boards be maintained?
Keep soil, leaves and garden debris from building up unnecessarily around the base of the fence. Inspect wooden boards for moisture and damaged fixings, and check concrete boards for movement or significant cracking.
Can concrete gravel boards be painted?
Concrete gravel boards may be painted using a suitable exterior masonry product once the surface is clean, dry and properly prepared. Follow the coating manufacturer’s instructions.
Do you sell individual replacement gravel boards?
Yes. Sky Fencing supplies individual gravel boards for repairs and replacements as well as larger quantities for complete new fence installations.
Do you supply compatible posts and fence panels?
Yes. Alongside gravel boards, Sky Fencing supplies fence panels, concrete fence posts, wooden fence posts, post concrete and fencing accessories.
Are delivery and collection available?
Yes. Orders can be arranged for delivery within the Sky Fencing delivery area or collected once they have been prepared and confirmed as ready. Delivery availability and charges depend on the postcode and order value.
Order Gravel Boards from Sky Fencing
Sky Fencing supplies gravel boards for replacement fencing, garden boundaries and complete new fence installations. Choose from durable concrete gravel boards in plain, recessed and rock-face finishes, or pressure-treated wooden gravel boards for a traditional all-timber fencing system.
Before ordering, check the required board length, height and thickness together with the selected fence panels and post system. The gravel board will increase the overall finished fence height, so it should be chosen alongside the correct fence posts.
Sky Fencing also supplies the other materials needed to complete the installation, including fence panels, concrete fence posts, wooden fence posts, post concrete and fencing accessories.
Browse the available gravel boards above and check the individual product dimensions before ordering. Gravel boards can be purchased individually for repairs and replacements or in larger quantities for complete fencing projects.
Orders can be arranged for delivery throughout the Sky Fencing delivery area or collected once they have been prepared and confirmed as ready.
