Hardboard/Pegboard

Hardboard is a panel made by compressing exploded wood fibers in a wet process that creates a smooth, dense panel stronger and harder than regular MDF. It’s also available in tempered hardboard, which undergoes an additional hardening process using linseed oil and baking of traditional hardboard.

Pegboard is made by perforating tempered hardboard with ¼” holes spaced on 1″ centers. These uniform holes accept standard peg hooks and merchandising hardware, making pegboard the go-to solution for customizable storage and display systems.

When to Choose Hardboard

The manufacturing process creates an exceptionally dense, uniform surface with superior strength. This makes hardboard ideal as a substrate for furniture manufacturing, wall paneling, and backing material where a smooth, paintable surface is needed without the grain patterns found in plywood.

The honest trade-off: Hardboard is stronger than MDF but doesn’t offer the same smooth, routable surface. For intricate detailing or painted cabinetry, MDF is often the better choice. But when you need a hard, durable panel at a competitive price point, hardboard delivers.

Pegboard Applications

Workshops and garages use pegboard to keep tools organized and within easy reach. The customizable hook system means your storage adapts as your needs change—no permanent mounting hardware required.

Retail stores rely on pegboard for merchandise displays that reconfigure quickly as inventory changes. From hardware stores to craft shops, the flexibility makes pegboard the industry standard for product presentation.

Home applications include craft rooms, laundry areas, pantries, and even kitchen organization. The clean appearance of white pegboard fits modern aesthetics while delivering serious functionality.

Common Uses

• Workshop and garage tool storage
• Retail merchandise display systems
• Furniture backing and substrate material
• Decorative wall panels (hardboard)
• Home organization systems
• Craft room and hobby space storage

For retail display applications with even greater versatility, consider slatwall panels, which feature grooved MDF designed specifically for merchandising hardware.