Description
Wooden gravel boards are horizontal barriers typically installed at the base of a fence panel. Designed to prevent direct contact between the fence panel and the ground, they offer both functional and aesthetic benefits.
Most timber gravel boards are manufactured from pressure-treated timber to resist fungal decay and insect attack. Treatment processes often involve impregnating the wood with preservatives to enhance longevity, making them suitable for outdoor use.
While timber is traditional and blends naturally with most gardens, you can also get concrete gravel boards. Concrete offers greater longevity and resistance to rot but may lack the rustic charm of wood. Wooden gravel boards remain popular for their ease of handling and aesthetic compatibility.
Purpose and Benefits of gravel boards
- Protection Against Rot: By elevating fence panels above the soil, wooden gravel boards help prevent moisture ingress, which can lead to rot and decay in fencing.
- Barrier to Soil and Debris: They act as a shield against displaced soil, gravel, and garden debris, reducing long-term structural wear.
- Cost-Effective Maintenance: Gravel boards are easier and cheaper to replace than entire fence panels, extending the life of your fence.
- Visual Appeal: Wooden gravel boards provide a neat and tidy base, contributing to the overall look of the fence line and garden boundary.
Top Tip
- Regularly inspect you gravel boards for signs of rot, insect damage, or warping.
- Apply a suitable wood preservative or stain every few years to maintain their protective qualities.
- Ensure proper drainage around the base of the fence to prevent prolonged contact with standing water.




