If you are a stickler for order or just don’t like losing things all the time, you probably have a pegboard at home. Not only does it store common household items for you, but it also keeps these items close at hand.
In the old days, pegboards were mostly confined in the garage, holding a variety of hooks from which hammers and saws and all types of tools were hanging. But in recent years, homeowners are getting craftier in using pegboards in all types of projects.
You can now see pegboards in the kitchen holding oddly-shaped items, in the bedroom as a headboard, or outside to hang pots and planters. But regardless of where they are used or what they are used for, there are typically three types of pegboards: wooden (or Masonite), metal, and acrylic.
Wooden Pegboards
The wooden pegboard is the most common and identifiable type of pegboard. It is usually made from compressed wood fiber and resin, coated with a layer of oil. Most hardware stores and home improvement shops offer it in the standard ¼” thickness, with 1/8” or ¼” holes.
The wooden pegboard is highly cost-effective – it comes at a low price point and yet offers much value. It also looks good inside the house and could be used to accent walls while maintaining its functionality.
However, it is important to note that hanging heavy items on it is discouraged as the material could bend, warp, or tear. Also, avoid exposing it to excess moisture or oil.
Metal Pegboards
Metal pegboards are usually made of steel. As can be expected, they are more durable. And depending on your preference, it can offer a sleeker look.
Metal pegboards are resistant to warping and do not sag. What is more, you could easily clean them with a clean wet rag. However, it is easily the most expensive among the types of pegboard available.
Also, care must be taken to insure that it is not exposed to excess moisture to avoid the formation of rust.
Metal pegboards are heavy, so finding a large sheet might be difficult. This could be a problem if you need to cover entire walls or at least a large section. Also, it must be installed far away from power sources or exposed wiring as it can conduct electricity.
Acrylic Pegboards
Acrylic or plastic pegboards are durable and versatile. They are resistant to water, ideal for areas where moisture is unavoidable. They are also lighter and much easier to install or move than metal or oven wooden pegboards.
Another good thing about acrylic pegboards is that they can also be made from recycled or reprocessed plastic. It helps reduce the plastic wastes that end up in landfills, or worse, in the ocean.
Proper Installation
Whether you are mounting a wooden, metal, or acrylic pegboard, you must leave a space of at least one inch behind it. This will give room for the hooks and other types of support to be inserted into the holes.
When securing the board, focus on the top portion as the force exerted on the board is usually downward. Use a 1” x 3” furring strip on the entire width of the board and attach it to the wall stud using 2.5” screws. You can also glue some dowels behind the board in between the holes to help prevent sagging or warping.
Author bio:
Hannah Gilbert is a freelance writer who offers ghostwriting, copywriting, and blogging services. She works closely with B2C and B2B businesses providing digital marketing content that gains social media attention and increases their search engine visibility.