A tanalised (pressure-treated) timber gravel board is installed horizontally along the bottom of a wooden fence structure, directly touching the ground. It acts as a protective protective barrier between damp soil or gravel and the main fence panels, extending the lifespan of the entire fencing system.

Common applications include:

• Protecting Fence Panels: Elevates wooden fence panels or featheredge fence boards 150mm above ground level to prevent direct contact with wet earth, standing water, and premature rot.

• Retaining Soil & Gravel: Keeps soil, mulch, bark, or gravel decorative aggregates contained within garden borders along fence lines.

• Garden Pathway & Lawn Edging: Functions as a sturdy, rot-resistant perimeter timber edge for garden beds, gravel paths, and artificial lawn boundaries.

• Shed & Outbuilding Bases: Used around the bottom edges of garden shed bases or outdoor timber structures to block drafts and debris accumulation beneath framing.

Available for collection from our Rugby branch or local delivery using our own fleet.

Timber products will typically be delivered in one of our vans or pick-up trucks, unless ordered alongside larger goods. Delivery is kerbside and the final offloading position is always subject to safe access and the driver’s discretion.

Please tell us before delivery about:

• Narrow roads or restricted entrances
• Parked vehicles or limited turning space
• Overhead cables, trees or other obstructions
• Soft, sloping or unsuitable ground
• Any other access concerns

Enter your postcode on the product page to check your delivery area. We’ll confirm the delivery date after your order is placed.

What does "tanalised" timber mean, and why is it important for gravel boards?

"Tanalised" refers to timber pressure-treated with Tanalith E wood preservative forced deep into the grain. Because gravel boards sit in direct contact with damp soil, grass, or gravel, standard untreated softwood would quickly rot within 1 to 2 years. Pressure treatment provides long-term resistance to fungal decay and wood-boring insects.

How do I fix a 150mm x 22mm timber gravel board to fence posts?

Attach the gravel board to the fence posts using wooden cleats (short timber offcuts screwed to the post) or galvanised gravel board brackets/clips. Drive exterior-grade or stainless steel screws through the board into the cleats or brackets to prevent rusting.

Should a timber gravel board be buried in the ground?

While tanalised wood withstands ground contact, burying the board deep into soil accelerates water absorption and shortens its lifespan. Sit the gravel board on a light bed of pea shingle or just level with the ground surface, ensuring water drains freely away from the base.

Do I need to treat cut ends of the gravel board during installation?

Yes. Whenever you cut a pressure-treated gravel board to length, the internal, untreated wood fibers become exposed. Apply an end-grain preservative sealant liberally over all fresh cut ends to preserve the protective seal.

Choosing between a timber or concrete gravel board depends on your budget, visual preference, and how long you want your fence to last.

• Choose Concrete Gravel Boards if you want maximum longevity and zero maintenance. Concrete never rots, warps, or decays from ground contact, making it a permanent solution. It creates a rigid base that works seamlessly with slotted concrete fence posts, though it is heavier and requires more effort to install.

• Choose Timber Gravel Boards if you prefer a natural wood finish or a lower upfront cost. Tanalised (pressure-treated) timber gravel boards blend in seamlessly with wooden fence panels and posts for a uniform aesthetic. They are lightweight, easy to cut to size, and cost less initially, though they will eventually need replacing every 5 to 10 years as ground moisture takes its toll.