Not all whiteboards are created equal.
When you need a dry-erase board, you will have many options
to choose from. Not all options are created equal and they do not all perform the
same. Two of the most common options are
porcelain steel and melamine. If you find yourself wondering what the
differences are, you are not alone. I hope to clarify the Pros and Cons of both
melamine and porcelain boards in an effort to help you find the right board for
your needs.
Economy option:
Melamine (Non-Magnetic)
Melamine is comprised of a plastic film on white colored
hardboard. These tend to be economically friendly but are not magnetic
receptive. Over time and after repeated use, the clear coating will wear away
which will result in ghosting or staining, so melamine boards should be cleaned
immediately after every use to prolong the good condition of the boards.
If treated and maintained properly, melamine can last
several years. However, this means that the board needs to be cleaned with a dry
erase board cleaner and a microfiber cloth, rather than other harsh cleaners
can eat away at the clear coating and cut down the ‘life span’ of the melamine
board. Avoid leaving marker on the surface for extended periods of a time; this
too can eat at the surface.
Durability option: Porcelain
Steel (Magnetic)
Porcelain steel whiteboards are much more durable than the
melamine boards because the writing surface is so hard. The porcelain is hard
baked enamel that resists dents, scratches, stains and ghosting!
Additionally, a porcelain boards’ enamel surface is backed
by steel. The steel strengthens the
board while making it magnetic receptive allowing the use of magnets and
magnetic accessories. With porcelain you
get a durable writing surface that doubles as a bulletin board.
The best porcelain whiteboards come with a 50 year warranty
on the writing surface! They are perfect if you plan on using the board on a
daily basis, they can withstand the maximum amount of usage. Think about it, with a 50 year guarantee, if
a porcelain board is purchased for a classroom, the board will not have to be
replaced until current students’ grandchildren are in the classroom!
If you plan on constantly using the whiteboard, it will be
more cost effective to purchase a porcelain whiteboard once, instead of
replacing multiple melamine boards over the years.
Summary
Finding the perfect whiteboard for your needs doesn’t need
to be difficult. Melamine and Porcelain boards both have advantages and
disadvantages, either one could be the right fit for you consider your budget
but also how you plan to use and care for your whiteboard.
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