Installing the best pegboard organizer system for your garage requires some basic layout, measuring and mounting tools. Did you know that there are vertical and horizontal systems, countless colors and endless options for pegboard hooks? In this article learn how to choose a quality pegboard system.
Organizing a garage should be simple.
But with the wide variety of tools, odd sizes and small shapes its a daunting task without a plan. And for small items and hand tools a pegboard organizer is a must have.
So what’s important in a pegboard organizer? Well, you’ll want to consider:
- Panel thickness which is typically in “gauge”. And, lower is better eg. 16-gauge is thicker than 20-gauge.
- Hole patterns are typically circular but some have elongated holes
- Raised surface that allows pegs to be installed easier
- And lastly, color variations if that’s important (I chose galvanized)
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Pegboard Organizer Overview
While not surprising, pegboard organizers have come a LONG ways in the past 10 years.
Perhaps you have owned or have been in garages with the old tan pegboard. Sure, it works but it doesn’t leave much for aesthetics and require carting home a 4×8 sheet of pegboard.
So with portability in mind, pegboard has evolved to:
- Modular panels that can be fitted to any space
- Endless colors to enhance their look
- Easy installation with raised edges that allow the hooks to easily slide behind the panel
- Panel hooks and bins in dozens of styles to hang everything from a hammer to a bike
Buying Criteria
When buying pegboard its best to:
- Buy into a modular system you can expand later
- Look for standard hook sizes
- Go for the thickest gauge metal you’ll need (without overbuying)
- Color variations or go with galvanized if you aren’t sure
Best Pegboard Organizer Systems
After looking at a number of organizer systems I decide to go with the Wall Control pegboard organizer for the simple reason they offer so many styles.
And, the Wall Control panels are Made in the USA.
But, to help your search, here’s all of the options for pegboard organizers:
1. Wall Control Pegboard Organizer
- Wall Control metal pegboard is more than 10 times stronger than…
- Pegboard accepts conventional 1/4in pegboard pegs and accessories
- Pegboard accepts Wall Control slotted tool board pegs and accessories
- Pegboard tool boards mount directly into studs or sheet rock with no…
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 05:24 / Images from Amazon
The steel constructed Wall Control organizer series will provide a lifetime of durability and configuration options for organizing tools. Available in many powder coated colors.
If you’re here it’s probably because you know the hardware store options for organizing tools aren’t that attractive.
And if you’re like me and have used the brown pegboard and hooks you might know they work. But look cheap and take some engineering and a few 2×4’s to build a frame to attach to the wall.
Features I like about the Wall Control:
- Accepts standard 1/4″ peg hooks (future proof)
- Steel construction
- Variety of powder coated finishes
- Slotted hooks for heavy loads
- Mount directly to studs – no frame to build
- 48×32″ size that can be stacked for walls or side-by-side for longer benches
2. Ultrawall Garage Storage Pegboard Organizer
- WIDE APPLICATIONS—Suitable for organizing garage tools or garden tools…
- SUPER MATERIAL FOR DURABILITY—Powder-coated steel for durability-resists…
- EASY TO INSTALL—Quick and easy to set-up/install. The position of this…
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL & HANDY—This garage storage pegboard system includes…
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 04:24 / Images from Amazon
The Ultrawall 48wx36h high has a unique top, middle and bottom organizer for hooks and bins.
Beyond the desired steel construction this unit separates with a functional set of shelving and bins. When set end to-end-end they will quickly provide the storage you need for a large quantity of tools and screws.
Key features:
- 72 piece kit
- 1200 pound capacity
- Fits into other Ultrwall products for a seamless look
- Steel construction
3. Wall Control Woodworking Edition
- LAZY GUY DIY APPROVED: Wall Control partnered with skilled woodworker and…
- IDEAL FOR STORING WOODWORKING TOOLS: Woodworking Clamps, Hand Planes,…
- ACCEPTS ROUND PEGS, SLOTTED PEGS, AND MAGNETS: The Wall Control Lazy Guy…
- EASY TO INSTALL, EXPANDABLE, MADE IN USA WOODWORKING TOOL STORAGE: Wood…
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 04:24 / Images from Amazon
The Woodworkers Wall Control features 25+ hooks and holders perfect for a woodworking shops tools.
While you can purchase hooks separately, this setup contains the popular starter kit you’ll need for core woodworking tools.
Key features:
- 2 – 32″ tall x 16″ wide panels plus 1 8″ tall x 32″ wide panel for long clamp storage
- Same steel construction as other Wall Control products
- Variety of pegs and a paper towel holder
4. Ultrawall Garage Storage Pegboard Organizer
- 【CNC Stamping Technique】 Adopting of CNC stamping technique, the…
- 【Environmental-Friendly and Odorless】Pegboard is made of metal which…
- 【Easy to Assemble】 This pegboard is easy to assemble, only need to…
- 【Space Saving】 Professional and reasonable design make it full use of…
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 05:04 / Images from Amazon
The GoPlus 24×48″ features teardrop holes and a heavy duty design great for wrenches and larger tools.
This steel 3-piece unit is heavy duty and includes an assortment of hooks.
Key features:
- CNC stamped
- Powder coated metal finish
- Fits 1/4″ standard pegs
- 3 18″ wide panels that are 24″ tall – buy more for larger walls
5. WallPeg Plastic Pegboard Tool Organizer
- Pegboard Panels 4 ea. (24-inch x 16 inch panels) Tool Crafts Organization
- Tuff poly plastic , easy to mount, never needs painting, no spacers are…
- Pegboard has Standard 1/4 ” peg holes…all standard peg hooks and…
- Panels offer optional mounting, can be mounted either 24″ x 64″ or 96″ x…
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 05:04 / Images from Amazon
The WallPeg 96″ wide is an economical choice for large applications at a reasonable price.
While not made of steel, this never-rust option features:
- Made of 4 24×16″ panels
- Fits 16 and 24″ stud patterns
- Can mount horizontal or vertical
- Indoor or outdoor
Since this unit is made of plastic I would only consider it for marine or light duty areas. Just be sure to use the right outdoor screws to avoid corrosion.
WallControl Pegboard Organizer Review
Ok so back to the WallControl pegboard organizers. Since I have a large workshop full of tools and plans to keep buying more I wanted a system I could add to later.
And, I wanted Made in USA.
So, I purchased 4 vertical panels and three horizontal panels to start off a new workbench and wall with the right tools.
Unboxing the Wall Control Pegboard Organizer
First, these panels are well packaged. And not only are the boxes well constructed the panels inside were wrapped in a heavy plastic.
And, as you can see, properly labeled to make sure you know you could cut yourself.
I skipped the gloves. Life on the edge.
What’s in a WallControl Box
Once you’re past the plastic and extract all of the parts you’ll find a nice (in my case) shiny galvanized pegboard. Remember you can order WallControl in a bunch of colors as well.
So what’s in the box? Well, as you can see in the photo above, you’ll receive a nice label (that came off easy), screws, drywall anchors and well written instructions.
Drywall Anchors were Not All Made Equal
So, the blue anchors shown above? I tossed them out immediately.
Instead, I only use screw in drywall anchors. And while I don’t blame WallControl for sending the blue anchors, I much prefer this style of anchor for a firmer hold.
Oh, and the drill bit above? I have found the self tapping drywall screw anchors to not always work so I drill a pilot hole. Less frustration with broken anchors.
Installing the WallControl Panels
First, my wall was a mess and I was going to have it taped and painted in a few months (completed now, if you’re wondering). So, rather than wait I installed a few of the panels.
When you do install your panels, make sure to install an upper corner first so it’s easier to level. That way, after you mark your hole you can simply let the unit hang without risking a bent tab.
Use a Bit Driver When Installing Pegboard
Unless you plan to screw the long screws in by hand, you’ll want to make sure you have a bit driver on your drill bit to reach the 3/4-inch to the back of the pegboard.
Perhaps you’re wondering why the screw is recessed? Well, your next step will be to hang the hooks and they will need clearance to go through the holes and then be seated.
Installation Instructions
Lastly, the installation instructions were overall adequate and the diagrams made sense.
So, wrapping up the instructions, rather than guess on your pegboard purchase was very happy with the Made in USA WallControl system. And, will likely add more panels to my workshop in the future.
Purchasing Considerations for Pegboard Organizer Systems
Setup for a Weekend Warrior vs. a Professional Workshop
While top notch is what most want these systems can be expensive. Especially for the higher end metal units. So as you make decisions on plastic vs. steel and the size of the unit make sure you consider how much you’ll use it and weight of the objects.
Pegboard Construction - Steel vs. Plastic
Weight is always a concern and plastic will eventually reach a point of concern
So, here’s when I would go steel:
- You have heavy duty tools
- Plumbing tools
- Wrenches – and a lot of them
- Steel shelving is a goal with slot-design
Otherwise, if budget is a concern, the plastic could work and is the preferred choice in outdoor or marine locations.
Expanding for the Future
If you’re just starting out in a home garage make sure you can expand. In fact, I recommend to buy twice as much panel as you think you need. And if you start to use it up grab another panel now while the manufacturer is matching style and color.
Beyond the Hooks: Teardrop vs. Slit Design
One of the reasons to go with a steel unit is you can use shelving on the pegboard. And with slit designs you’ll have a variety of choices in length and depth.
Configuring to Your Space - Getting Height & Width Right
The good thing is these units are all adaptable to varying stud distances. And it is vital to hit the studs to ensure the maximum load capacity of the pegboard organization system is met.
As you may have noticed, most are in increments of 16 and 24″. And that allows you to either run the panel horizontal or vertical.
Frequently Asked Questions for Pegboard Organizer Systems
What is a pegboard organizer?
A pegboard organizer is a pre-built and pre-framed pegboard unit. They typically come in a series of panels set next to each other to accommodate varying stud distances. Most new pegboard systems are made from steel and replace the traditional wooden pegs.
Can I use standard hooks?
Yes – almost all systems will work with 1/4″ pegs you can buy at a local hardware store.
Do I need to build a frame for pre-built pegboard organizers?
Almost all pegboard organizers have a frame that sets the organizer away from the wall to provide room for the hooks to be inserted.
Can I use these overhead?
You cannot use a pegboard system overhead. But you can check out overhead garage organizers instead (just use hooks from the mesh or frame).
- About the Author
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Eric has been a professional woodworker for over thirty years and has worked in small cabinet shops making everything from kitchen cabinets to hand-made furniture. Now working from a home woodworking shop Eric is sharing his passion for woodworking, tool advice and how-to knowledge from his Minnesota-based woodshop.
