You do not need a gravel board on every fence, but it is useful where the bottom of timber fencing would otherwise sit against soil or close to damp ground.
The gravel board sits below the main fence and takes the ground-level position instead of the fence panel or featheredge boards. This helps keep the main fencing clear of direct ground contact and means the lower board can be replaced separately if it deteriorates.
If the bottom of the fence is already kept well clear of the ground, a gravel board may be less important. The choice also depends on the system: concrete gravel boards are for compatible concrete posts, while timber gravel boards are the normal choice with timber posts.
For a new fence, see our timber and concrete gravel boards, or compare the two options in our timber vs concrete guide.
