The Cleaning InstituteChalkboards can be used in different types of settings to boost productivity, write down notes, and communicate a message to a group or audience. Although chalkboards have been used for many decades, they continue to evolve and are now built with more features. We carefully reviewed different chalkboards on the market to provide consumers with our top picks.
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Part of our testing process involves using multiple categories to rate each product that is reviewed to determine how well it scores. As our team reviewed chalkboards, their testing categories included Design, Value, and Durability.
Design – The design and style of each chalkboard were reviewed to determine each chalkboard’s overall appeal.
Value – The overall quality and value were also taken into consideration to determine if the chalkboard was worth its price tag. Our team evaluated the quality of the materials used and checked to see if they were sturdy.
Durability – The rating of each chalkboard was influenced by the durability of the materials used and its lifespan, along with how well it held up to frequent use.
The Wooden A-Frame Sign is built with a large magnetic surface and can be used to promote deals and specials for businesses. The wooden frame is heavy and durable and creates a rustic design.
Most notable upside: This A-Frame Sign includes chalk and an eraser and is elegantly crafted with rustic wood. The product can be used at weddings, or for small businesses to advertise specials and deals on the sidewalk, or in the store. The chalkboard has a lifetime warranty and can be used for both indoor or outdoor use and measures 40 x 20 inches. Liquid or dry chalk cleans up easily and wipes off with water. The board is heavy enough to withstand wind without moving or collapsing.
Biggest downsides: The chalkboard film is prone to bubbling, and parts of the board can also begin to rise. Some types of chalk may also not erase well. The hinges at the top are also prone to becoming loose over time.
The Rustic Wooden Framed Chalkboard Sign is framed and includes a kickstand to convey a special message or dinner menu. The non-fade surface is long-lasting and is easy and simple to set up.
Most notable upside: This wooden framed standing chalkboard is long-lasting and has a rustic and vintage style. It’s easy to clean, with no ghosting, to preserve the rich black color of the background. It’s also convenient to pack or store away by lifting and folding it after it’s used each time. The magnetic writing surface allows chalk to glide easily while writing with a smooth black surface that highlights vibrant ink colors
Biggest downsides: The parts of the chalkboard may not be firmly attached, which can cause it to fall apart easily, due to screws that can come out. The wood also looks overtreated and unnatural. The board surface is best described as slimy, with chalk that has difficulty sticking, which can create a mess and make it difficult to read.
The Artaste Slate chalkboard has a natural and organic design and is constructed out of authentic slate, which makes it extremely durable. A twine loop is attached to make it easy to hang.
Most notable upside: This slate chalkboard is compact enough to hang in different rooms or areas of the home or office, but still offers enough surface area to write a message. Soapstone chalk is included, which allows consumers to write directly onto the slate. A small shelf is added on the board to store the chalk and make it easy to access. The rough scalloped edges make it look natural and unique
Biggest downsides: The surface of the stone is too coarse, which can make it difficult to write small print. The surface also traps a lot of the chalk and requires wet erasing, which can cause the board to appear streaky and messy.
The most effective chalkboards are constructed with a smooth black surface that is easy to write on to ensure that the font is legible. The product should have high-quality construction and durability with the materials used to ensure that it has a long lifespan. Chalkboards that can stand often offer a high level of versatility and are more eye-catching. The best chalkboards are those that allow for dry or liquid chalk to be used and have a large surface area for writing.
Depending on the materials used to construct the chalkboard, they should be stored in a dry and cool setting that isn’t overly damp. Some chalkboards are prone to warping or have a film that can lift if it has contact with moisture. Keeping the board out of direct sunlight can also preserve the frame of the product and allow it to maintain its appeal.