Cork boards have been around for nearly a century and are still going strong. Whether you’re looking for a cork board for your home, classroom or office, there are a plethora of cork boards on the market to help you stay organized.
Selecting a cork board over other bulletin board options is the eco-friendly choice. Cork is a sustainable material that’s naturally antimicrobial and nontoxic. Whether you’re using a cork board decoratively or functionally, choose one with a durable frame and good backing, like VIZ-PRO’s Cork Board.
What to know before you buy a cork board
Material
Authentic cork boards are made from natural cork derived from the bark of the cork oak tree. This material is renewable and biodegradable, meaning it won’t contribute to landfill waste. Synthetic cork boards resemble cork but are made from either recycled rubber or vinyl- or plastic-infused cork. Whatever material you choose, be sure it’s thick enough to push your pins or thumbtacks all the way in.
Thickness
Standard cork boards are 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick. You want a cork board that’s deep enough for thumbtacks to go in all the way to their backing so that whatever you’re pinning to the board is secure. You also want the push pins to go in easily without falling back out. Reading consumer reviews can help you determine if the cork’s density and thickness will securely grip push pins.
Size and shape
Cork boards come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Most cork boards are rectangular, but you can also find square, hexagonal and strip-shaped cork boards. It’s important to consider the size of your wall space when choosing a cork board. Rectangular cork boards range from 11 x 16 inches to 48 x 72 inches. Cork panels are also available if you want to cover an entire wall space. Before you buy a cork board, check to be sure its dimensions will fit your wall space by using a tape measure.
Installation
Cork boards are designed to be mounted on a wall. The ease of this installation process varies from model to model. Some come with an attached wire or hooks, which means the cork board can only be hung in one orientation. Others offer more flexibility as to whether the board can be hung horizontally or vertically and include brackets. Be sure the cork board you’re considering comes with all the hardware you need to install it, with the exception of the basic tools you’ll have to supply, such as a screwdriver or hammer.
Cork board features
Frame
The frame around the cork board can vary in width, material and color. You can also find frameless cork boards, which are more affordable but not as durable as framed ones. Frame materials range from inexpensive plastic or vinyl to more durable aluminum to more expensive wood. Metallic, natural wood, white and black are common frame colors. Choose a frame that you find attractive and matches your decor.
Backing
Another important element of cork boards is the backing. The backing of the board provides stability and durability. Wood or metal backings offer the most rigidity and are the most durable. Particle board backing is cheaper but offers less stability. We don’t recommend buying a cork board that doesn’t have a backing.
Dry-erase board/cork board combo
Select cork boards incorporate a dry-erase whiteboard. This combination is usually split down the middle: one half of the board is a whiteboard and the other half is a cork board. Often the whiteboard side is magnetic, so in addition to writing on it you can place magnets. This combination style often includes extras like dry-erase markers and an eraser.
Add-ons
For home use, some specialized cork boards include an attached basket for mail or hooks for keys to help with household organization.
Cork board cost
Cork boards cost $10-$60. Cork boards starting at $20 tend to be larger and feature sturdy aluminum or wood frames rather than cheaper plastic ones.
Cork board FAQ
What is the best cork board mount?
A. Brackets are the most common cork board mount and are either built into the board or come with it. While they offer the most professional, seamless appearance, they can be difficult to install.
Cork boards that have two hooks at the top of the board are easier to install and only require that you put two nails or screws in the wall. However, they limit the orientation of the board and don’t look as professional as bracket mounts.
Wire mounts only require that you put one screw or nail into the wall to hang the wire that runs from one side of the board to the other. Orientation is limited with this style of mount, and it can also look less professional.
How do I clean a cork board?
A. The best way to clean a cork board is with a dry cloth. If stains occur, you can lightly sand the surface with fine-grade sandpaper to remove the mark.
Which cork board should I get?
Best of the best cork board
VIZ-PRO Cork Notice Board: available at Amazon
Our take: A professional cork board that comes in a wide range of size options.
What we like: This sleek cork board comes in seven sizes as well as two-pack options, so you can buy multiples for your work space. The silver aluminum frame is durable and looks sleek, and the cork is natural. You can choose the orientation of the board: vertical or horizontal.
What we dislike: For some consumers, the cork feels thin.
Best bang for your buck cork board
Quartet Combination Magnetic Whiteboard & Cork Board: available at Amazon
Our take: An inexpensive whiteboard/cork board combo that’s perfect for students or households.
What we like: This combination board comes with a choice of a black or white frame. The dry-erase side of the board is magnetic and comes with two magnets. You can hang this board vertically or horizontally.
What we dislike: Some consumers find the board quite difficult to mount.
Honorable mention cork board
iDesign Twillo Cork Board, Mail Holder and Key Rack: available at Amazon
Our take: An attractive mini cork board that features a metal basket for mail and five hooks for keys.
What we like: The small cork board is the perfect size to leave notes for the household and pin photos. The mail center attachment and key rack are ideal for hanging by the door. The steel construction and bronze-finish basket weave are attractive and durable.
What we dislike: This cork board doesn’t include mounting instructions and can be complicated to install.
Ana Sanchez is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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