The Difference Between Whiteboard Surfaces

While whiteboards may all look the same, there can be a big difference in the quality of their surfaces. The type of surface that will work best for you will depend on what you will be using the whiteboards for, and where they will be located. The three main types of whiteboard surface are:

1. Non-magnetic
2. Magnetic
3. Vitreous Enamel Steel

The Standard non-magnetic whiteboards are the cheapest and most basic out of the three types. These boards are ideal for situations where the board doesn't have to undergo heavy usage and is not in an area where it could be easily damaged. These boards are ideal for places like classrooms and offices where the whiteboards won't have the risk of being scratched or damaged and are only needed for casual writing and erasing. Non-magnetic whiteboards will usually come with a surface guarantee of between 2-5 years.

Magnetic whiteboards have the benefit of being able to accept magnets. This means the board can be used as a pin board as well as a drywipe whiteboard. The metal surface that allows the board to accept magnets also makes the surface more hard wearing. This means that if the whiteboard you require is going to undergo heavy usage or is in a place where it could be scratched or damaged then this board would be better suited than a standard non-magnetic whiteboard. Magnetic whiteboards can come with up to 10 years surface guarantee. 

Vitreous steel whiteboards are the most hard wearing of all the surfaces. These boards are the most premium on the market and offer the best whiteboard surface available. These boards would be ideal for places where it is likely that the boards could be damaged or scratched and in situations where the board will undergo very heavy usage. The vitreous enamel whiteboard will usually have a 25 year surface guarantee. They will also accept magnets making this board the best type of whiteboard you can buy.

It is important that you choose the board that suits your needs as choosing the wrong type of board may be less cost effective in the long term. Having boards that aren't suitable for a certain situation may cause excessive wear and tear meaning replacement boards will need to be purchased more frequently. If you need help deciding which board to choose please call our expert team on 0800 612 5432.

By Chris