The Ultimate Guide to Buying Whiteboards in South Africa
Richard JermynShare
Manufacturing Insights, Material Comparisons, and Practical Advice
If you walk into any South African classroom, boardroom, or factory floor, you will likely find a whiteboard. It is the focal point of communication. Yet most people still see it as a simple sheet of white material framed in aluminium.
The reality of manufacturing professional whiteboards is far more complex.
Since 1996, visual communication tools have evolved. For procurement managers, principals, and office administrators, understanding the difference between a budget board and a professional board determines whether it lasts six months or twenty years. This guide explains whiteboard manufacturing, materials, and selection criteria for the South African market.
The Three Tiers of Whiteboard Surfaces
A high-quality whiteboard is engineered for flatness, rigidity, and erasability. At BestBoard, boards fall into three performance tiers. Understanding these materials helps you buy correctly the first time.
1. Coated Masonite (Non-Magnetic)
- The Budget-Friendly Choice
- Composition: High-density fibreboard coated with a specialised writing surface
- Best for: Home offices, student study areas, light usage
- Key feature: Lightweight and cost-effective. Non-magnetic
2. Porcelain Coated Steel (Magnetic)
- The Workhorse Choice
- Composition: Steel sheet coated with a durable porcelain layer
- Best for: Schools, universities, offices, factories
- Key feature: Guaranteed resistance to ghosting. Fully magnetic for notices, charts, and magnetic dusters.
3. Glass Whiteboards (Magnetic or Non-Magnetic)
- The Executive Choice
- Composition: Toughened safety glass with rear-applied colour backing
- Best for: Boardrooms, reception areas, design-led spaces
- Key feature: Extremely easy to clean. Glass never stains. Magnetic glass boards require Neodymium magnets.
Which Whiteboard Should You Buy
| Feature | Coated Masonite | Porcelain Coated Steel | Glass Whiteboard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magnetic | No | Yes | Optional |
| Best use | Light usage | Heavy daily use | Executive environments |
| Durability | Moderate | High | Very high |
| Ghosting resistance | Standard | Guaranteed resistant | Impervious |
| Cleaning effort | Frequent | Low | Minimal |
| Price level | Budget | Mid to high | Premium |
Browse our magnetic whiteboards collection →
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Browse our glass whiteboards collection →
Maintenance and Cleaning
Board lifespan depends on surface care. Ghosting happens when ink penetrates microscopic pores. Porcelain Steel and Glass resist this by design.
Correct cleaning protocol
- Daily: Use a clean felt eraser
- Weekly: Use dedicated whiteboard cleaning fluid only
- Deep clean: 90 percent isopropyl alcohol for porcelain steel and glass
What not to do
- Do not use household glass cleaners
- Do not use abrasive scourers
Buying Advice for South African Sectors
Schools and Universities
Recommendation: Porcelain Coated Steel. Designed for continuous writing throughout the school day. Magnetic functionality supports teaching aids.
Factories and Production Lines
Recommendation: Porcelain Coated Steel. Withstands dust, frequent updates, and visual management systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. What is the difference between Masonite and Porcelain Steel?
- Masonite suits light use. Porcelain Steel is magnetic and designed for frequent writing.
- 2. Why does my whiteboard not erase properly?
- This is ghosting. Porcelain Steel eliminates it.
- 3. Can a whiteboard be used as a projector screen?
- Glossy surfaces create glare. Low-glare boards work better.
- 4. How high should a whiteboard be mounted?
- Centre height should sit between 1.5m and 1.7m.
- 5. What are standard whiteboard sizes?
- 900x600mm, 1200x900mm, 1500x1200mm, 2400x1200mm.
- 6. What if permanent marker was used?
- Draw over it with dry-erase marker and wipe.
- 7. Are glass whiteboards magnetic?
- Yes with Neodymium magnets.
- 8. How are large boards installed?
- Boards include concealed fittings and brackets for flush mounting.
- 9. Can old boards be resurfaced?
- Factory-made boards last longer and cost less long term.
- 10. What is the lifespan of a whiteboard?
- Glass lasts a lifetime. Porcelain Steel lasts many years with proper care.
- 11. Are chalkboards still relevant?
- Mainly decorative. Whiteboards suit modern classrooms.
- 12. Where should I buy a whiteboard in South Africa?
- Direct from a local manufacturer for custom sizing and support.
Why Buying Local Matters
Since 1996, BestBoard has manufactured whiteboards in Johannesburg. Local manufacturing offers:
- Custom sizes built to order
- Materials suited to South African conditions
- Direct support from the factory
From a single glass board to a full school rollout, we build boards to last.
Contact us for a custom quote →