Today’s post is a little boring, but necessary. Concrete gravel boards? These are the base panels that nobody really talks about. But they’re a key component for a fence that’s built to last. They provide protection from moisture, rot, and those pesky bugs that love to munch on wood.
Plus, they give your fence that sleek, finished look that screams “I’ve got my life together.” And honestly, who wants to replace their fence every few years?
Not this gal! Let’s dig a little deeper into the 7 reasons why you should be hopping on this trend. Your fence (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.
Table of Contents
Don’t have time to read it now? Pin it for later!
Understanding concrete gravel boards
What exactly are concrete gravel boards, and why should you care?
Also known as base panels, they’re essentially the foundation of your fence. They sit at the bottom, acting as a barrier between your fence panels and the ground. This barrier is key for protecting your fence from all sorts of nasty things, but we’ll get into that later.
Now, there are a few different types of concrete gravel boards out there. You’ve got your standard concrete boards, which are, well, just that – concrete. There are also reinforced concrete gravel boards, which have steel rods running through them for extra strength.
And if you really want to get wild, there are designer versions that are stamped concrete, or even colored boards to match your fence panels or your house trim.
So, what are these made of?
Well, the main ingredient is concrete, obviously. But there are a few other things mixed in to make them extra durable, like sand, gravel, and sometimes even fiberglass fibers. Think of it like a supercharged version of the concrete you see in your driveway or sidewalk.
7 reasons why concrete gravel boards are superior
Okay, now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, let’s talk about why concrete gravel boards are the bee’s knees when it comes to protecting and enhancing your fence. Buckle up, buttercup, because this is where things get good.
1. Moisture Resistance:
Here in Florida, we know all about humidity. That’s why concrete gravel boards are a lifesaver. They don’t absorb moisture like wood does, which means no more rotting fence panels or moldy fence posts. Your fence will stay looking fresh and fabulous for years to come.
2. Rot and Decay Prevention
Speaking of rot, concrete gravel boards are the ultimate defense against this nasty problem. Since they’re not made of organic material, they’re not susceptible to fungal growth or decay. Say goodbye to replacing those rotting fence panels every few years!
3. Pest Protection
Termites, carpenter ants, and other wood-boring insects are the bane of every homeowner’s existence. But with concrete gravel boards, you can tell those pests to take a hike. They can’t chew through concrete, so your fence panels are safe and sound.
4. Weed and Grass Control
Nobody likes a weedy fence line. Concrete gravel boards act as a barrier against weeds and grass, keeping your fence line looking neat and tidy. No more hours spent pulling weeds or spraying herbicide!
5. Durability and Longevity
Concrete gravel boards are tough as nails. They can withstand heavy rain, strong winds, and even the occasional hurricane. They won’t warp, crack, or split like wood, which means you’ll get years of use out of them. Even the salty air and harsh weather of the East Coast won’t faze these concrete warriors, unlike their timber counterparts that are prone to rot and warping.
6. Aesthetic Appeal
Let’s face it, concrete gravel boards just look good. They add a clean, finished look to your fence line, and they come in a variety of colors and styles to match your taste. Plus, they can even help to visually ground your fence and make it look more substantial. Not only do concrete gravel boards protect and enhance your fence, but they also contribute to a more organized and polished overall look for your home’s exterior.
7. Low Maintenance
Unlike wood, concrete gravel boards require very little maintenance. Just a quick wash with a hose every now and then is all you need to keep them looking their best. No more staining, painting, or sealing!
How to choose the right concrete gravel board
Now that you’re convinced that concrete gravel boards are the way to go, let’s talk about how to choose the right ones for your fence. There are a few things to consider, like size, style, and color.
Size
Concrete gravel boards come in various lengths and heights, so you’ll need to choose the ones that fit your fence panels. Most standard fence panels are 6 feet long, so you’ll want to get 6-foot gravel boards. But if you have taller or shorter fence panels, you’ll need to adjust accordingly.
Style
Do you want a plain, smooth finish, or do you prefer something with a bit more texture? There are concrete gravel boards with different patterns and designs, so you can choose the ones that match your style.
Color
Most concrete gravel boards are gray, but you can also find them in other colors like brown, beige, or even white. If you want to get really creative, you can even paint them to match your fence panels or your house trim.
Just like concrete gravel boards protect your fence investment, smart choices in materials can save you money on say, a bathroom remodel, for example. So really, choose wisely, because your fence deserves the best!
Installation guide: DIY vs. professional
Installing concrete gravel boards is a fairly straightforward process, but it does require some basic DIY skills and tools. If you’re not comfortable with doing it yourself, you can always hire a professional. But if you’re feeling adventurous, here’s a quick guide to get you started:
DIY installation
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
1. Prepare the ground
Clear away any grass, weeds, or debris from the area where you’ll be installing the gravel boards. Dig a trench that’s slightly wider than the boards and about 6 inches deep.
2. Level the ground
Make sure the bottom of the trench is level so that your gravel boards will sit evenly.
3. Install the posts
If you’re installing new fence posts, you’ll need to do that first. Make sure the posts are set in concrete and are plumb (perfectly vertical).
4. Place the gravel boards
Slide the gravel boards into place between the fence posts. Make sure they’re level and flush against the posts.
5. Secure the boards
Use screws or nails to secure the gravel boards to the fence posts.
6. Fill the trench
Fill the trench with gravel or soil to help support the gravel boards and prevent them from shifting.
Professional installation
If you’re not comfortable with DIY installation, or if you don’t have the time or tools to do it yourself, you can always hire a professional fence installer. They’ll have the experience and expertise to get the job done quickly and correctly.
Maintenance tips for concrete gravel boards
The great thing about concrete gravel boards is that they require very little maintenance. Just a quick hose-down every now and then is all you need to keep them looking their best. If you notice any dirt or grime buildup, you can use a mild detergent and a scrub brush to clean them.
While concrete gravel boards are low maintenance, a little extra care can go a long way in ensuring their longevity. Consider applying a sealant every few years to enhance their resistance to moisture and stains.
This is especially beneficial in coastal areas where salt spray can be a concern. Additionally, keep an eye on the surrounding soil and ensure proper drainage to prevent water from pooling around the base of your fence.
Remember, a small investment of time and effort now can save you from costly repairs down the road and keep your fence looking its best for years to come.
If you do happen to notice any cracks or chips in your gravel boards, you can easily repair them with a concrete patching compound. Just follow the instructions on the package, and you’ll have your gravel boards looking good as new in no time.
Comparing concrete gravel boards to alternatives
So, you might be wondering, “Are there any alternatives to concrete gravel boards?” The answer is yes, but they’re not nearly as good. Let’s take a quick look at some of the other options:
Wood
Wood gravel boards are the most common alternative, but they’re also the least durable. They’re susceptible to rot, decay, and pest infestations, and they require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Concrete gravel boards, on the other hand, laugh in the face of rot and pests, requiring minimal upkeep and lasting for decades.
Plastic
Plastic gravel boards are a relatively new option, and they’re not as widely available as concrete or wood. They’re also not as durable as concrete, and they can become brittle and crack in cold weather.
Concrete gravel boards, with their superior strength and weather resistance, are a far more reliable choice for cool climate.
Metal
Metal gravel boards are the most expensive option, and they’re not as aesthetically pleasing as concrete or wood. They can also rust and corrode over time, especially in humid climates like Florida.
Concrete gravel boards, however, offer a more natural look and won’t succumb to rust, making them a more attractive and enduring option.
As you can see, concrete gravel boards are the clear winner when it comes to durability, longevity, and low maintenance. They’re also the most aesthetically pleasing option, and they come in a variety of colors and styles to match your taste.
Cost and where to buy concrete gravel boards
Concrete gravel boards are a relatively affordable option, especially when you consider their long lifespan and low maintenance requirements. The price will vary depending on the size, style, and finish you choose, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $30 per board.
You can find concrete gravel boards at most home improvement stores, lumber yards, and online retailers. If you’re looking for a specific color or style, you may need to order them online or through a specialty retailer.
Tips for Saving Money:
Buy in bulk
If you're buying a lot of gravel boards, you can often get a discount by buying in bulk.
Shop around
Compare prices from different retailers before you buy. You may be able to find a better deal if you shop around.
Consider DIY installation
If you're handy, you can save money by installing the gravel boards.
The takeaway
Concrete gravel boards: the secret weapon to elevate your backyard style and protect your fence like a champ. They’re the unsung heroes that’ll keep your fence looking fresh to death for years to come. If you’re tired of replacing rotting fence panels and battling weeds, it’s time to upgrade to concrete gravel boards. Trust me, your fence (and your wallet) will thank you.
Ready to give your fence the royal treatment it deserves? Don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to answer any questions you might have and help you choose the perfect concrete gravel boards for your Florida home. Let’s make your fence the envy of the neighborhood together!
