Dry erase boards are one of those office supplies that are difficult to buy. Many office products are confusing because there are so many small variables involved. Great examples are classification folders, report covers and binders. With so many colors, sizes, and varying item specifications, it can take a good half hour just to figure out the exact item you need. Dry erase boards are no exception, and this article’s goal is to make selecting the right board for your needs a breeze.
Dry erase boards are so confusing that many people don’t even know what to call them. You’ll hear them referred to as white boards, presentation boards or many times marker boards. The correct terminology used by most office supplies companies is “dry erase” boards, but talk to the average consumer and most don’t have a clue what dry erase really means.
White boards are actually called dry erase boards because of the marker that is used to write on them. Simply, dry erase markers can be erased without using any moisture – they erase easily with a dry cloth, paper towel or one of those foam erasers you can buy. The opposite type markers are called wet erase markers, and these require a moistened towel or water to cleanly erase. Now that simple fact is clear, let’s get to picking out the optimal product for you.
First, you need to define the size of the board you need. Dry erase boards can be as small as 12″ x 12″ and as large as 4′ x 12′ or even longer for classrooms. So, measure that space on your wall and determine the size that’s going to be functional and look good too. The most popular board sizes are ‘2 x 3′ and 3′ x 4′, but check out all the options available at your favorite office products store.
Next let’s determine the best writing surface for your board. A relatively new surface in dry erase boards is referred to as “no ghost” surfaces, or a brand called Total Erase by Quartet. These surfaces are guaranteed to not stain or ghost, and have a harder more durable surface than the old standard writing surface which is called melamine. If budget and low cost is most important to you, then melamine is the surface to select, but remember, you get what you pay for.
If quality and durability are most important to you, or if the board is going to be in a high use area like a conference room, I recommend buying a magnetic board. There are two options today when it comes to magnetic, porcelain which is the premium board on the market, and now “painted steel” which has most of the features of porcelain in that they are magnetic and resist staining or ghosting, plus are extremely durable. Depending on budget, painted steel may make sense, but for top of the line quality, look for a porcelain board – it will last for years.
Next, decide what frame style you need. If price is of most importance, go with one of the basics – the standard oak wood frame, or the standard aluminum frame. If style is important to you, and you’re willing to spend a little more, consider some of the designer frame choices like Quartet’s Total Erase brand which has mahogany, cherry wood, graphite and maple frames. Most high end magnetic and porcelain boards are available in designer style frames that are perfect for executive offices and board rooms.
Now that you have the specs down for your board, you’ll need to consider the best place to buy your dry erase board. My first rule of office supplies is never buy from a Big Box office superstore. The prices are high, the service is low, and why support a big corporate conglomerate? I buy my office supplies online from a family owned independent office products company that gives back half of profits to charity. They do good work in the community, and give me great service and value. And, their selection of dry erase marker boards is fantastic. Happy shopping!
Tristan Hill is an expert on Office Supplies in Austin. He knows where to find the best deals on Dry Erase Boards, and shops at Zuma Office Supply for great prices and service. They give back 50% of profits to charity!
