We've put together easy-to-read buying guides on dozens of products to help make your shopping experience a little easier. Still have questions? Don't hesitate to call our knowledgeable sales team at 1-800-260-2776.
Whether you are purchasing blackboards for a new school or replacing old boards, there are a few points you should consider before buying. They include:
Board Material
Do you need a blackboard that accepts magnets, or are you looking for a low-priced blackboard?
Porcelain-on-steel blackboards are durable and hold up well to daily use. The blackboard surface accepts magnets so you can hang maps and other visual aids without pins or staples. There is no need to "chalk in" your board; it's ready to use as soon as you take it out of the box. Porcelain-on-steel boards are so strong that they typically carry a 50-year warranty.
High-pressure laminate blackboards are not as durable as porcelain-on-steel blackboards, but cost quite a bit less. The warranty on high-pressure laminate blackboards is usually about 20 years. Unlike the porcelain-on-steel boards, the high-pressure laminate blackboards do not accept magnets. You will also need to "chalk in" your board before writing on it. This is a simple process where you rub the side of a stick of chalk across the board and then erase. The remaining chalk dust helps the chalk adhere as you write. You will need to "chalk in" the blackboard every time it is washed clean.
Board Type
How will you use your blackboard? Will it be shared by several classrooms? Do you need to be able to move it around the room or will you mount it to a wall?
Mobile blackboards are great for small spaces because you can roll them out when you need them and then store them away when the lecture is over. Most mobile blackboards are reversible, so you can flip to a second side after the first is filled. Mobile blackboards typically have locking casters, so they are easy to move but won't shift when you are trying to write.
Fixed blackboards can be freestanding or mounted directly to your wall. Many people prefer wall-mounted fixed blackboards because they don't have to worry about moving or storing them.
Frame Material
Keep in mind that blackboards are not made to be hung without a frame.
Unframed blackboards can save money because they allow you to replace a scratched or damaged board without buying an entire new board and frame. The unframed blackboards can also be placed in custom frames. Call us at 1-800-260-2776 and we'll be happy to help you determine the correct size and place your custom order.
Framed blackboards have either an aluminum or wood frame.
Board Thickness
Most blackboards have a 1/2 inch or 1/4 inch particleboard back. A blackboard with a thicker particleboard back has less chance of warping than a board with a thinner back. We suggest a 1/2 inch back on any board longer than 8 feet.
Click here to view all of our blackboards and order yours online. If you have additional questions or prefer to order by phone, give our friendly sales team a call at 1-800-260-2776.
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