One of the main purposes of using concrete, gravel boards (short panels that are affixed below the fence panels) is that they keep the fencing from coming into contact with the ground. By keeping the panels off of the ground, these boards keep them from coming into contact with mud, moisture, bugs and insects that are known to cause deterioration, limiting the durability and longevity of the fence.
Installment Flexibility
Gravel boards installation gives you increased flexibility when it comes to the total height of the fencing you plan on installing. For example, if the location where you are planning on installing the fencing is a bit sloped, you can partially bury the concrete boards underneath the ground which will ensure that your fencing sits level. Using these types of boards will also help retain soil that might otherwise have lost excess soil from a garden that’s growing on a slope. In addition, gravel boards are very helpful when used for the purpose of dividing off abutting gardens that are laid out at various heights.
Concrete Fence Posts or Wooden?
As with most things, there are advantages and disadvantages when it comes to fencing posts and this pertains to concrete fence posts and wooden fence posts as well. In this case, it definitely comes down to “you get what you pay for” so you need to decide what’s most important to you; the appearance, quality, practicality or price.
The main reasons people opt for wooden fence posts is first the price; they are the cheapest posts to use for panel support. Second is the appearance; quite a few people like the way timber panels and posts look because wood provides a warmer look to garden spaces and are available in a variety of designs (the fencing). Wooden posts are also easier to deal with because they are lightweight, making them easier to handle, meaning installation will be a breeze. On the other hand, there are disadvantages to using wooden posts, including that for some, they are too basic looking, especially for homeowners that prefer a higher end look. Also, with wooden posts, you run the risk of having to deal with the wood splitting and then needing to repair or replace them.
Concrete fence posts are harder to install because of their heavy weight, which makes them more difficult to manoeuvre. These posts are also more expensive, however you definitely get what you pay for because they provide a more durable, long lasting framework to your fencing panels. Concrete fence posts won’t decay or splinter over time, they basically stand up to anything Mother Nature throws at them. In addition, when you use concrete posts, you are also eliminating the need for brackets, nails, etc.
While choosing fencing boards may seem like a complicated decision, it really only comes down to whether or not you prefer wood fencing for the way it looks or if your budget is so tight that you simply can’t afford the concrete option. That being said, concrete posts are the better choice in most cases and they will definitely save you money and time in the long run because they are longer lasting and you won’t have to spend money or time in the future replacing splintered or decaying wooden fence posts.
