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The Complete Buying Guide To Concrete gravel Boards
Have you ever noticed how fences start to look worn out at the bottom after a few years? That’s usually because the panels sit directly on the ground, soaking up moisture. Enter concrete gravel boards – the unsung heroes of fencing. They might not be the flashiest part of your garden, but they do a big job: protecting your fence panels, keeping them stable, and making sure your fence lasts much longer than it would otherwise.
Today, we will look at everything there is to know about concrete gravel boards (sounds boring, but we will make it as fun as possible). We will talk about what they are, the different types, and how to install them, and we will give you some answers to common questions. You may be doing your DIY and need to order some, or you just want to make sure you are getting the best value from investing in a shiny new fence; this guide will have you covered.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s look at why these big slabs of concrete are essential to keep your fences standing tall and looking great for years to come.
What Are Concrete Gravel Boards?
They are the heavy-duty slabs at the bottom of your fence panels that no one pays attention to until you need to replace them. Their job? Keep your wooden fence panel off the ground, as this is where moisture, mud and creeping plants can ruin your fence. Concrete gravel boards are a wise investment if you want your lovely new fence to last.
So how do they work? They create a barrier between the fence panels and the ground. Instead of your timber panels soaking up rainwater, the concrete takes the hit - and unlike wood, concrete won’t rot or weaken over time. It’s built to withstand years of bad weather without needing constant attention.
One of the best things about concrete gravel boards is their easy installation with slotted concrete posts. The boards simply slide into place, locking everything together. No faffing around with screws or complicated fixes — they just work. And when it’s time to replace a fence panel, you don’t have to pull apart the whole thing. The gravel boards stay put, and you can just swap the panel.
Why Are Concrete Gravel Boards Essential for Your Fence?
We’ve touched on how concrete gravel boards help protect your fence from rot, but that’s only part of the story. Let's break it down.
Stability and Support
Have you ever seen a fence wobbling in the wind or leaning to one side? That's probably because the base isn’t sturdy enough. A concrete gravel board adds weight and strength to the bottom, which helps keep it anchored. Without it, the fence would need repairing all the time.
Cost-Effectiveness
You could use timber gravel boards (they are cheaper), but it might cost you more in the long run. They will need more maintenance to stop them from rotting (painting, etc). Concrete, on the other hand, is a one-time investment. Slot it in and forget about it.
Low Maintenance
As mentioned above, concrete gravel boards are maintenance-free. They won’t warp, and they don’t rot. Timber gravel boards need regular treatments to keep them in shape - oils, varnishes, and all that. With concrete, theres none of that faff. Once they are in place, they will get on with the job, year after year, without lifting a finger.
Types of Concrete Gravel Boards
You might think that concrete gravel boards all come in one boring, plain grey style. That's where you are wrong. They are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here are some of the most common types of concrete gravel boards.
Smooth Gravel Boards
If you want a clean, modern look, smooth gravel boards are the best option. These boards have a flat surface that works well with contemporary fences. They are great if you prefer your fence to blend in without drawing too much attention.
When to use them:
- Modern gardens with a minimalist design
- Fencing where you want a polished, professional finish.
- New build homes.
Rock Faced Gravel Boards
Rock-faced boards have a textured surface that looks like natural stone. They add a rustic charm and a bit of character to your fence. This makes them perfect for traditional or countryside-style gardens. The textured look can also help hide dirt and marks better than smooth boards.
When to use them:
- Cottage-style or traditional gardens.
- Properties with stone features, like garden walls or paths.
- Fencing that needs to look more decorative.
Brick-Faced Gravel Boards
As the name suggests, these boards are designed to look like bricks. They are the perfect way to tie your fence in with brickwork on your home or walls. It adds a unique touch that could make your fence look built in.
When to use:
- Homes with brick exteriors.
- Garden Spaces with brick flower beds, patios or walls.
- Fences that you want to fit in with the surrounding architecture.
Slatted Gravel Boards
Slatted boards have horizontal grooves, giving them a stylish, contemporary feel. These are often paired with modern, slatted fence panels to create a cohesive look. These boards are more about aesthetics, but keep your fence off the ground.
When to use them:
- Modern and contemporary gardens.
- Fences that featured slatted panels.
- Homes with sleep landscaping or modern architecture.
Dished Gravel Boards
Dished gravel boards are probably the least used gravel board. They are used for gardens with uneven terrain and have a concave shape, which helps them hold back soil and prevent erosion.
When to use:
- Areas where the soil needs to be retained.
- Spaces with raised beds or tricky terrain.
- It's all about matching the style to your garden and making sure the boards work for your specific fencing needs.
Sizes and Dimensions of Concrete Gravel Boards
Choosing the right size concrete gravel board is crucial for the stability of your fence. Luckily, in the UK, there are only a few common sizes that match the dimensions of fence panels.
Standard Lengths
- 6ft (1830mm): This is the most common length, designed to fit standard UK fence panels, typically 6ft wide.
- 9ft 6in (2885mm): These longer boards are suitable for feather edge fencing or custom installations requiring extended lengths.
- 6 inches (150mm): Ideal for standard applications, providing sufficient elevation to protect fence panels from ground moisture.
- 12 inches (300mm): Used when a higher barrier is needed, such as in areas with significant soil buildup or for added protection against debris.
- Fence Panel Compatibility - Make sure the gravel board matches the length of your fence panels. For standard 6ft panels, a 6ft gravel board is appropriate.
- Ground Conditions - In areas prone to heavy rainfall or dampness, choosing a 12-inch high gravel board can offer extra protection against moisture.
- Aesthetic Considerations - Taller gravel boards can provide a more substantial appearance and may be preferred for specific design aesthetics.
How to Install Concrete Gravel Boards
Installing concrete gravel boards might sound like a job for the pros, but it’s a task you can handle yourself if you’ve got the tools and a bit of patience. These boards aren’t just heavy-duty - they’re heavy, full stop. So, if you’re thinking of going alone, maybe call a mate to help. Here’s how to get the job done right. If you need more information on how to install a full fence please see our guide here
Step 1 - Prepare The Ground
Before you do anything, clear the area where the fence will go. Get rid of weeds, rocks and any other debris that might get in the way. Once the area is clear, check the ground level. You’ll want to fix that if it's uneven before moving on. A level base is key to keeping your fence straight and stable.
Don't skip this step. It might be tempting to just crack on, but uneven ground will cause your fence to lean, driving you mad later. Lifting them back out to readjust will be even harder than putting them back in.
Step 2 - Position the Fence Posts
Your fence posts keep everything standing, so make sure they’re solid. You may have these already in place from when you removed the old concrete gravel board.
If you don’t, position the posts at regular intervals along the fence line, ensuring they’re straight and secure. To keep them in place, use postcrete (a quick-setting concrete mix). It’s a lot quicker than mixing traditional concrete and does the job just as well. Double-check that each post is level before the concrete sets. There’s no easy fix once it's solid.
Step 3 - Slot in the Gravel Boards
Once your posts are set, it’s time to slot in the gravel boards. Most concrete posts have grooves down the sides, which makes this part easy. Simply slide the gravel boards into the slots. It’s essential to make sure the boards are straight and snugly fit into the posts. Use a spirit level to check that everything lines up nicely.
If the boards are a bit stiff, don’t force them. Check for debris in the slots, and give them a clean if needed.
Step 4 - Secure the Fence Panels
With the gravel boards in place, you can add the fence panels. Slot them into the posts above the gravel board. The panels should sit neatly on the gravel boards with no gaps.
If the panels aren’t sitting right, check your posts and boards are level. Minor adjustments now will save you headaches later.
Tips for Success
- Use a spirit level. This will be your best friend. Check and check again.
- Adjust the ground. Take that extra bit of time to clear the ground.
- Bring a mate. These are heavy boards. Pay them in beers after they help you :)
FAQs About Concrete Gravel Boards
Do you have questions about concrete gravel boards? You’re not alone, and we have the answers. We have rounded up some of the most common questions and answered them in a straightforward, practical way to help you make the best choice for your fencing project.
Yes, that's one of their primary jobs. By keeping the wooden fence panels off the damp ground, gravel boards stop moisture from seeping into the wood. Without gravel boards, the bottom of your fence panels will be in constant contact with soil and water, a recipe for rotting wood.
Most concrete gravel boards are reinforced with steel rebar to make them stronger. This reinforcement helps the boards withstand pressure and prevents cracking. Rebar gives the boards extra durability, making them capable of handling heavy soil, strong winds, and general wear and tear over time.
Final Thoughts on Concrete Gravel Boards
Concrete gravel boards might not be the most exciting part of your garden, but they are one of the most important. They protect your fence panels from moisture, add stability to your fencing structure, and save you money in the long run by cutting down on repairs and replacements.
After reading this guide, you’re practically an expert on concrete gravel boards. You know how they work, the types available, and why they’re essential for a long-lasting fence.
So, if you’re ready to give your fence the solid foundation it needs, check out our range of concrete gravel boards. A little extra effort now will save you time, money, and hassle for years to come - and you can enjoy your garden without worrying about your fence falling apart.
Need More Help
We realise that our concrete gravel buying guide buying guide is detailed but if you do have any extra questions, please contact us! Our expert team will be able to advise you on everything you need to know as you buy concrete gravel boards. you can contact us many different ways.
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