What Is a Kick Board Fence and When Should You Use One?

A kick board fence uses a board along the bottom of the fencing, positioned between the main fence and the ground. It can form a practical part of the overall fencing system while also helping to create a neat, finished appearance at ground level.

When planning new garden fencing, it is easy to focus primarily on the panels. However, components at the base of the fence can also affect how the complete installation looks and performs.

First Choice Fencing manufactures and supplies fencing products for a variety of garden and boundary projects, giving customers the option to build a complete fencing system around their requirements.

What Is a Fence Kick Board?

A fence kick board is positioned horizontally along the lower section of a fence.

Rather than having the main timber fencing extend directly down to ground level, a separate board creates the lowest section of the installation.

This can be useful where you want a defined barrier between the main fencing and the area immediately below it.

Kick boards can form part of a wider installation alongside posts and the main fencing, so the complete system should be considered when planning the project.

What Does a Kick Board Do?

The precise purpose will depend on the fence and where it is being installed.

At a basic level, the kick board creates a distinct lower section beneath the main fencing. This can help separate the primary timber fencing from soil, planting and other materials immediately alongside the boundary.

A kick board can also provide a clean visual line across the bottom of the fence.

For gardens where soil levels, flower beds or other landscaping features sit close to the boundary, this lower section can form a useful part of the overall design.

Why Consider Timber Kick Boards?

Timber can provide a natural appearance that works particularly well alongside wooden fencing.

Using timber across the main fence and kick board can create a consistent look, making the lower section feel like an intentional part of the installation rather than a separate component.

This can suit a range of garden styles, from straightforward boundary fencing to more carefully landscaped outdoor spaces.

If you are planning a new fence, browse First Choice Fencing’s fencing products to consider how the individual components can work together.

Is a Kick Board the Same as a Gravel Board?

The terms can sometimes be used in similar contexts because both refer to components positioned along the bottom of fencing.

What matters when planning your project is understanding the specific product being supplied, what material it is manufactured from and how it is intended to work within the complete fencing system.

First Choice Fencing supplies different components for fencing installations, so it is worth discussing your intended setup rather than relying on terminology alone.

This is particularly useful if you are replacing an existing fence and want the new installation to follow a similar configuration.

When Should You Consider a Kick Board Fence?

A kick board fence may be worth considering when you want a defined lower section as part of a timber fencing installation.

It can be particularly relevant where:

• Soil sits close to the fence line
• Flower beds run alongside the boundary
• You want a consistent lower edge
• The fence forms part of a landscaped garden
• You are replacing an existing fence that already uses kick boards
• You want the main fencing raised above the immediate ground level

The most appropriate setup depends on the individual garden and the type of fencing being installed.

Should Kick Boards Be Planned Before Installation?

Yes. It is better to consider the complete fencing system before installation begins.

Adding a kick board affects how the rest of the fence is positioned. Posts, panels or boards and the overall height need to work together.

Planning everything at the same time helps create a more consistent finished installation.

It also gives you an opportunity to consider other components such as gates and trellis before work begins rather than treating them as additions later.

Does the Rest of the Fence Matter?

A kick board is only one element of a garden boundary.

The main fencing still needs to provide the privacy, security and appearance you require. First Choice Fencing offers different fencing options, allowing customers to select a style appropriate for their garden.

When comparing fence panels, consider how their design will work with the lower section of the fence, posts and any additional features.

Taking this whole-system approach can help create a more cohesive result.

Can Kick Boards Work with Different Garden Designs?

The appearance of a kick board fence can vary depending on the surrounding garden.

In a traditional garden, timber can complement planting, lawns and other natural materials. In a more contemporary outdoor space, a simple horizontal lower section can contribute to a clean boundary line.

Think about what will sit immediately in front of the fence too.

Borders, raised beds and planting can all affect how much of the kick board remains visible once the garden is complete.

Considering these details during the planning stage can help the fencing complement the wider outdoor design.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a kick board fence?

A kick board fence includes a horizontal board positioned along the lower part of the fencing, creating a separate section between the main fence and ground level.

Where does a fence kick board go?

The kick board is installed along the bottom of the fence, beneath the main fencing and between supporting posts.

Can timber kick boards be used with wooden fencing?

Timber kick boards can provide a visually consistent option alongside timber fencing. The complete installation should be planned so the different components work together.

Should I plan kick boards before installing my fence?

Yes. Planning the kick board alongside the posts and main fencing helps ensure the dimensions and overall installation work together correctly.

Plan Your Kick Board Fence with First Choice Fencing

A kick board fence can provide a practical and visually consistent way to complete the lower section of a garden boundary. The key is to consider it as part of the entire fencing system rather than as an isolated component.

Speak to First Choice Fencing about your garden, existing boundary and preferred fencing style to identify suitable products for your project.