Different Types of Pegboard: Masonite vs. Metal vs. Acrylic

When it comes to garages, a neat and well-organized space for all of one’s things is at the top of everyone’s wish list although for most busy adults, finding the time and energy to tackle that task can be a pipedream. In order to execute a perfectly planned garage organization project it’s important to utilize the right tools for the job, which means researching, comparing, and identifying the best products and materials.

The cornerstone to any well-organized garage is the pegboard – perforated wall units with the ability to accept pegs and/or hooks to hang tools and other items on. They offer the flexibility to customize the layout of the hooks and allow you to free up valuable storage space on the ground and shelves. Deciding to utilize pegboard in the garage is undoubtedly wise, but there is still one more choice to make: What types of pegboard will you use?

Different Types of Pegboard

One might be wondering “Are their more than one type of pegboard available?” and the answer is a resounding yes! The three most common types of pegboard are Masonite, metal, and plastic and each have distinct pros and cons. Below we will take a deeper dive into each of their unique aspects so you can determine which would be best for you and your garage

Masonite Pegboards

Masonite pegboard is the most common and identifiable type of pegboard on the market. Generally made out of compressed wood fiber and resin, then coated with thin layer of oil.

Pros

• Being so common, Masonite pegboard is the most readily available types of pegboard and can be found at most hardware and home improvement stores.
• Available with both standard 1/8-inch holes and the heavier-duty 1/4-inch style
• Cost effective – definitely wont break the bank.

Cons

• Installation requires the use of furring strips (strips that lift the pegboard off the wall its being installed on), which can limit the number of hole you can utilize your hooks with.
• The 1/8-inch size pegboard is unstable for hanging heavier tools such as drills and other power tools.
• If put too much weight on either the 1/8^th or 1/4 inch hooks, you run the risk of bending, warping or tearing the board.
• Susceptible to the elements – excess moisture or oils will essentially ruin Masonite and render it useless.
• Extended installation and replacement of hooks can damage the holes of the board, making even more difficult to for the hooks to stay in place. In most cases, hooks will need to be taped or glued down after a short period of time.

Metal Pegboards

Usually made out of steel, metal pegboards offer a sleeker look while adding additional strength and sturdiness.

Pros

• Metal provides you with one of the stronger pegboards on the market
• Long lasting – resistant to warping and sagging
• Can be cleaned easily with a wet rag
• Aesthetically pleasing

Cons

• Easily the most expensive type of pegboard available
• Heavy and cumbersome in nature, making it difficult to find in larger sheets. Definitely not a great option for those looking to cover entire walls.
• Steel can rust, so exposure to excessive moisture can damage metal pegboard over time (unless you use stainless steel).
• Stacking excess weight on the hooks won’t damage the pegboard itself, but will cause damage to its mounting points (i.e. sheetrock, wooden frames, etc.)
• Steel can conduct electricity, making its use around unfinished garages with exposed wiring incredibly dangerous and ill-advised

Plastic / Acrylic Pegboards

Made out of molded co-polymer plastic or acrylic, this type of pegboard offers unmatched versatility and strength.

Pros

• Lightweight – plastic pegboard is much lighter and mobile than Masonite and metal options
• Available in the widest selection of different sizes, allowing for use in even the most customized spaces
• Unparalleled durability – will never rust, mold, splinter or warp and can be moved/reinstalled with ease
• No need to buy and install furring strips – comes ready to mount
• Available in recycled and reprocessed plastic, helping to diver waste away from the landfill and lowering its carbon footprint
• Strong enough to support all of the heavier tools

Cons

• Some people simply don’t like the idea of plastic hanging on the walls. We think those people are wrong… but everyone’s entitled to their opinion we suppose!

When it’s all said and done, each of the different types of pegboards has their share of positives and negatives its clear that plastic pegboard combines the strength, versatility and durability needed to give you the most bang for your buck. If you are aiming to bring a new level of organization to your garage, plastic pegboard is going help you get there the easiest, checking all the right boxes on the way.