How to Choose the Best Slatwall System for Your Garage
No matter how well designed the garage is, over time it will become cluttered with tools all over the place, machinery in the middle of the floor, and boxes everywhere.
Eventually, it starts becoming hard to work in, and that's when it's time to think about installing a garage Slatwall system.
Slatwall is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to organize garages of all sizes. It's inexpensive, highly versatile, easy to work with, and can look quite nice when everything is properly stored and in its place. The open nature of the slats allows you to install whatever hooks, hangers, or even shelves you need. It can accommodate tools of almost any size, in any organizational structure.
Find the Best Slatwall system for your needs
These are the most important criteria to look at.
I. Garage Slatwall Material
The biggest choice to make is what material your Slatwall should be made from. There are three basic options here: Plastics like PVC, metal, or medium-density fiberboard (MDF).
MDF is probably the worst choice for Slatwall, although it is usually the cheapest. MDF is basically the wood equivalent of cardboard, and it suffers from all the same flaws as wood. MDF is easily stained and susceptible to moisture, as well as chemical damage. If it becomes wet, mold growth is another potential problem. Plus, it's also typically the weakest option for Slatwall, so hanging too-heavy objects can also damage it.
PVC-based Slatwall is a good all-around option, balancing price, and performance. PVC is an exceptionally durable form of plastic, and PVC Slatwall can typically hold anywhere from 40-75 pounds per square foot. In addition, PVC is non-reactive. It's impervious to water, difficult to stain, and can even stand up to some chemical exposure. This is a very popular option.
Metal Slatwall is usually made of aluminum, and is the most expensive type of Slatwall. As with PVC, it is also durable and stain resistant. Some people like the industrial look of metal. But, to buy metal slatwall you must be willing to pay a substantial premium.
For most, a good high-quality PVC slatwall is the best option. It is important that you get a good warranty on whatever slatwall you purchase. So, keep this in mind when shopping for slatwall.
II. Determining Storage Accessories
Slatwall can't do much by itself. It needs to be part of an overall garage Slatwall system which provides things to hang on the Slatwall.
Fortunately, there is a huge range of accessories available that slots into Slatwall. Better yet, Slatwall is essentially standardized. Virtually any Slatwall hanger or other accessories should work for you regardless of what type or brand of garage Slatwall you install.
If you're looking at a Slatwall brand that uses proprietary accessories, look elsewhere. There's no reason to get locked into a single brand here.
There are hooks, hangers, brackets, shelves, bins, even small drawers, and more. The great thing about Slatwall is that it's entirely configurable. You can lay out the pieces however you like and move them around whenever necessary. This versatility is one of the big reasons Slatwall has become so popular in garages.
III. How Slatwall Integrates with The Rest of Your Garage
Slatwall segments come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and some brands even feature connective elements so that multiple segments can fit together almost seamlessly. So, you can have as much or as little Slatwall as you like.
Some garages opt to have huge walls made of Slatwall, holding all of their tools and accessories. Others prefer to mix and match Slatwall with garage cabinetry in front, giving them more variety in their storage options.
Color is another consideration here. Slatwall is typically white, but it doesn't have to be. If your garage has a strong color scheme, or you want to maintain your corporate colors, you can get Slatwall in almost any color you want. You could pair it with matching cabinets for an attractive look that says your garage is a cut above!
IV. Installation
Finally, it's important to look into how a garage Slatwall system is installed. Typically, it’s not a complicated process. Installation can be time consuming. It is important that you get it level, especially if you are installing an entire wall of Slatwall, or you will notice it doesn’t look level.
Also, some brands have more complicated installations. Chances are that the designers simply made it over complicated when it doesn't need to be. If you do want to attempt hanging it yourself, be wary of Slatwall which is going to be too hard to install.
Most home or business owners prefer to just pay for installation to avoid the hassle and make sure they get the results they want.
Garage Finisher Is Ohio's Choice for Great Garage Organization
We are one of Cleveland's top sources for garage Slatwall systems, garage cabinetry, and the toughest garage flooring you'll find anywhere. We can take any garage and make it the best it can be! With the best Slatwall systems and cabinetry, your garage will be well-organized and a dream to work in. Plus, you can rest assured knowing our Forever Floor, Slatwall systems, and garage cabinetry all carry a Lifetime Warranty.
