What to Put behind a Dart Board to Protect Wall​: Top Solutions

 

What to Put behind a Dart Board to Protect Wall​: Top Solutions

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What to Put Behind a Dart Board to Protect Your Wall: 8 Effective Solutions

Dartboards bring hours of fun, but missed throws can leave your walls looking like Swiss cheese. Whether you’re a casual player or a serious enthusiast, protecting your wall is essential to avoid costly repairs and maintain your space’s aesthetics. In this guide, we’ll explore top-rated solutions for safeguarding your walls, from budget-friendly DIY hacks to professional-grade backboards. Let’s dive in!

Why You Need Protection Behind Your Dart Board

Before we list the solutions, let’s address the why. Even skilled players miss occasionally, and over time, errant darts can:

  • Damage drywall or plaster, leaving holes or cracks.

  • Stain walls if dart tips transfer dirt or grease.

  • Decrease your home’s value with visible wear.

A protective barrier not only saves your walls but also reduces noise and extends the life of your darts. Now, let’s explore the best options!

1. Cork Boards: The Classic Choice

How It Works: Cork is a natural shock absorber, making it ideal for catching stray darts. Its porous texture grips dart tips without damaging them.

Pros:

  • Affordable and easy to install.

  • Lightweight and blends with most decors.

  • Doubles as a bulletin board for scorecards or decor.

Cons:

  • Thin cork may wear out over time.

  • Requires regular replacement if heavily used.

Installation Tip: Opt for 1/2-inch-thick cork panels (available at craft stores) and mount them using adhesive strips or screws.

2. Interlocking Foam Tiles: Gym Mat Magic

How It Works: Dense foam tiles (often used for gym floors) cushion dart impacts and dampen sound.

Pros:

  • Ultra-durable and water-resistant.

  • Easy to cut into custom shapes/sizes.

  • Adds a pop of color to game rooms.

Cons:

  • Thicker tiles may push the dartboard too far from the wall.

Installation Tip: Use 3/4-inch EVA foam tiles and secure them with double-sided tape or Velcro.

3. Rubber Stall Mats: Heavy-Duty Defense

How It Works: Designed for horse stables, these thick rubber mats withstand heavy impacts and last for years.

Pros:

  • Nearly indestructible.

  • Easy to clean and fire-resistant.

  • Works for both steel-tip and soft-tip darts.

Cons:

  • Heavy and harder to install.

  • May have a strong rubber odor initially.

Installation Tip: Cut a 4×4-foot mat to size and hang it using heavy-duty hooks or brackets.

4. Carpet or Rugs: Soft and Stylish

How It Works: A plush rug or carpet remnant hung on the wall absorbs dart hits and adds texture to the room.

Pros:

  • Budget-friendly (use old rugs!).

  • Reduces noise from dart throws.

  • Enhances room acoustics.

Cons:

  • Requires frequent cleaning to avoid dust buildup.

  • Thinner carpets offer less protection.

Installation Tip: Staple a thick, woven rug to a wooden frame for a polished look.

5. Acoustic Panels: Double Duty

How It Works: These soundproofing panels (made of foam or fiberglass) absorb both noise and dart impacts.

Pros:

  • Modern, sleek designs.

  • Improves room acoustics for movies/music.

  • Fire-resistant options available.

Cons:

  • Higher cost than DIY solutions.

  • Thin foam may not stop sharper darts.

Installation Tip: Choose 2-inch-thick panels and arrange them in a geometric pattern for a stylish backdrop.

6. Plywood Backboards: DIY Champion

How It Works: A sanded plywood sheet covered with fabric or foam provides a sturdy, customizable shield.

Pros:

  • Cheap and easy to personalize.

  • Can be painted or decorated.

  • Reusable for years.

Cons:

  • Requires basic woodworking skills.

  • Adds bulk to the wall.

Installation Tip: Use 3/4-inch plywood, wrap it in burlap or felt, and mount it with L-brackets.

7. Specialty Dartboard Cabinets: All-in-One Fix

How It Works: These wooden cabinets house your dartboard and include built-in side protection.

Pros:

  • Elegant, space-saving design.

  • Stores darts and accessories.

  • Often includes a scoreboard.

Cons:

  • Expensive ($$100+).

  • Limited coverage area.

Installation Tip: Look for cabinets with adjustable mounting to fit your wall type.

8. Recycled Materials: Creative & Cheap

How It Works: Repurpose household items like old blankets, yoga mats, or even a cardboard box filled with foam.

Pros:

  • Free or low-cost.

  • Eco-friendly solution.

Cons:

  • Less durable or visually appealing.

  • May require frequent replacements.

Installation Tip: Layer multiple materials (e.g., cardboard + carpet) for better protection.

Key Factors When Choosing a Dart Board Protector

  1. Wall Material: Drywall needs thicker protection than brick or concrete.

  2. Dart Type: Steel-tip dents walls more than soft-tip.

  3. Aesthetics: Match the solution to your room’s style.

  4. Budget: DIY options cost under $20, while cabinets run higher.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your wall doesn’t have to be boring or expensive. For budget players, cork or foam tiles offer quick fixes, while serious enthusiasts might invest in rubber mats or cabinets. Combine functionality with creativity—turn your protector into a decorative accent!

By using one of these solutions, you’ll keep your walls pristine and focus on hitting bullseyes—not regretting missed throws.

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