Are concrete or wooden gravel boards better?

Concrete gravel boards are virtually indestructible and will never rot, making them the best choice for long-term durability. Wooden gravel boards are cheaper and provide a more natural, unified look but will eventually rot and need replacement (usually after 10-15 years if UC4 treated).

What is a UC4 treatment?

UC4 (Use Class 4) refers to timber that has been pressure-treated specifically for direct contact with the ground. Standard fence panels are often only UC3. Always ensure your wooden gravel boards are UC4 rated, or they will rot very quickly.

Do I need a gravel board for every panel?

Yes, ideally. A gravel board should run the full length of every panel to ensure no part of the fence panel frame touches the ground. This creates a sacrificial barrier that is much cheaper and easier to replace than the panel itself.

How high are standard gravel boards?

In the UK, the standard height for a gravel board is 150mm (6 inches). You can also find 300mm (12 inch) boards, which are useful for creating a slight retaining wall if your garden levels are uneven.

Are concrete or wooden gravel boards better?

Concrete gravel boards are virtually indestructible and will never rot, making them the best choice for long-term durability. Wooden gravel boards are cheaper and provide a more natural, unified look but will eventually rot and need replacement (usually after 10-15 years if UC4 treated).

What is a UC4 treatment?

UC4 (Use Class 4) refers to timber that has been pressure-treated specifically for direct contact with the ground. Standard fence panels are often only UC3. Always ensure your wooden gravel boards are UC4 rated, or they will rot very quickly.

Do I need a gravel board for every panel?

Yes, ideally. A gravel board should run the full length of every panel to ensure no part of the fence panel frame touches the ground. This creates a sacrificial barrier that is much cheaper and easier to replace than the panel itself.

How high are standard gravel boards?

In the UK, the standard height for a gravel board is 150mm (6 inches). You can also find 300mm (12 inch) boards, which are useful for creating a slight retaining wall if your garden levels are uneven.

Gravel Board Calculator

Calculate protective barriers for your fence panels.

Total Fence Length (m)

Board Length (m)

Material Count

Gravel Board Tip: Concrete gravel boards are the most durable option but are heavy to handle. If using wooden gravel boards, ensure they are 'UC4' rated (direct ground contact) for the longest possible life.

Sacrificial Barriers: The Gravel Board Guide

Preventing Rot

The most common cause of fence failure in the UK is 'ground rot'. By installing a gravel board at the base of your fence, you elevate the expensive panels away from damp soil and wet grass, dramatically increasing their lifespan.

Our **gravel board calculator** ensures you order the correct number of boards to match your fence run, whether you're using concrete or timber.

Standard Sizes

Standard Length1.83m (6ft)

Standard Height150mm (6")

Deep Board Height300mm (12")

Fixing & Levelling

When using wooden posts, gravel boards are usually screwed to the face of the post or into small wooden cleats attached to the side. For concrete 'slotted' posts, the gravel board simply slides down the groove before the panel is added.

It is vital that the gravel board is perfectly level. If the ground slopes, you may need to 'step' the gravel boards and panels, or dig the gravel board partially into the ground at the higher end to maintain a level line.

Ground Contact

Always use timber specifically marked as 'Kiln Dried' and 'Pressure Treated' for ground contact. Standard garden timber will decay within 2-3 years if buried or left in constant contact with soil.

Retaining Soil

If your garden is higher than your neighbour's, gravel boards act as a minor retaining wall. In these cases, concrete boards or very thick (38mm+) timber boards are essential to resist the pressure of the soil.

Pro Tip: Cleat Fixings

When fixing wooden gravel boards, use galvanized or stainless steel screws. Standard screws will rust quickly due to the moisture in the ground and the chemicals used in the pressure-treatment process, leading to the boards falling off after just one winter.

Gravel Board & Rot FAQ

Project Disclaimer

Ensure gravel boards do not block important drainage paths or air bricks in your home's walls. In heavy clay soils, additional drainage (like a gravel soakaway) behind the boards may be necessary to prevent water buildup.