Protecting your walls and floors is crucial when playing darts, which is why buying dartboard surrounds is a smart investment. This guide explores everything you need to know about choosing the right surround, from materials and sizes to styles and installation tips, ensuring you can enjoy your game without damaging your home.
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Why You Need a Dartboard Surround
Let’s face it, even the most seasoned dart players occasionally miss the board. A dartboard surround acts as a protective barrier, catching stray darts and preventing them from damaging your walls. Beyond protection, surrounds also offer a professional look to your dart setup and can even help reduce noise.
- Wall Protection: The primary benefit is shielding your walls from unsightly dart holes.
- Floor Protection: Darts that bounce out and fall straight down can damage hardwood or tile floors. A surround provides a soft landing.
- Aesthetic Appeal: A surround enhances the overall look of your dartboard setup, giving it a more professional and finished appearance.
- Noise Reduction: The surround material can absorb some of the impact noise, which is particularly helpful if you live in an apartment or have thin walls.
Investing in a quality dartboard surround is a proactive step towards preserving your home and enjoying your dart games worry-free.
Types of Dartboard Surrounds
Several types of dartboard surrounds are available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision.
Foam Dartboard Surrounds
Foam surrounds are generally the most affordable option and are easy to install. They are made from high-density foam that effectively catches stray darts. However, they may not be as durable as other materials and can show wear and tear over time.
- Pros: Affordable, lightweight, easy to install.
- Cons: Less durable, may show dart holes more easily.
Rubber Dartboard Surrounds
Rubber surrounds offer a good balance of durability and affordability. They are more resilient than foam and can withstand more impacts without showing significant damage. Rubber also provides excellent wall protection.
- Pros: Durable, good wall protection, relatively affordable.
- Cons: Can be slightly heavier than foam, may have a rubbery smell initially.
Wooden Dartboard Surrounds
Wooden surrounds are often considered the most aesthetically pleasing option. They provide a classic and sophisticated look to your dart setup. However, they tend to be more expensive and may require more effort to install. Be sure to explore Choose Best Dart Equipment if you are unsure of which dartboard to match your new surround with.
- Pros: Stylish, durable, adds a touch of elegance.
- Cons: More expensive, can be heavier, may require more complex installation.
Professional Dartboard Surrounds
Professional surrounds are typically made from high-quality materials like reinforced polymer or a combination of materials. They are designed for heavy use and offer superior durability and protection. These are a great investment when buying dartboard surrounds for serious players.
- Pros: Extremely durable, long-lasting, provides excellent protection.
- Cons: Most expensive option, may be overkill for casual players.
Factors to Consider When Buying Dartboard Surrounds
When buying dartboard surrounds, several factors should influence your decision. Consider these aspects to ensure you choose the best surround for your needs and budget:
- Material: Choose a material that aligns with your budget, durability requirements, and aesthetic preferences.
- Size: Ensure the surround is large enough to provide adequate protection around the dartboard. Standard sizes are typically around 27-29 inches in diameter.
- Thickness: Thicker surrounds offer better protection, especially for frequent players.
- Installation: Consider how easy the surround is to install. Some surrounds simply slide onto the dartboard, while others may require mounting hardware.
- Style: Select a style that complements your dartboard and the overall décor of your game room or space.
- Price: Set a budget and compare prices from different retailers to find the best value. You can find great deals on even premium dartboard surrounds if you shop around.
Installation Tips for Dartboard Surrounds
Proper installation is essential to ensure your dartboard surround provides optimal protection and looks its best. Here are some helpful tips:
- Read the Instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
- Measure Carefully: Ensure the surround is centered around the dartboard before securing it in place.
- Use Appropriate Hardware: If the surround requires mounting hardware, use the correct screws or bolts to avoid damaging your wall.
- Secure Fit: Make sure the surround is securely attached to the dartboard or wall to prevent it from shifting during play.
- Leveling: Use a level to ensure the dartboard and surround are perfectly aligned.
Benefits of a Quality Dartboard Surround
Investing in a quality dartboard surround offers numerous benefits beyond just protecting your walls. It also enhances the overall dart playing experience.
- Enhanced Safety: Reduces the risk of injury from stray darts.
- Preservation of Your Home: Protects walls, floors, and furniture from damage.
- Improved Aesthetics: Adds a professional and stylish touch to your dart setup.
- Increased Enjoyment: Allows you to focus on your game without worrying about damaging your surroundings.
- Long-Term Value: A durable surround will last for years, making it a worthwhile investment.
Where to Buy Dartboard Surrounds
Dartboard surrounds are widely available from various retailers, both online and in physical stores. Here are some common places to find them:
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, eBay, and specialty dart supply stores offer a wide selection of surrounds.
- Sporting Goods Stores: Large sporting goods chains often carry dartboards and accessories, including surrounds.
- Game Rooms and Billiard Supply Stores: These stores typically specialize in game room equipment and offer a range of dartboard surrounds.
- Local Dart Shops: Check for local dart shops in your area, as they may offer personalized service and expert advice.
When shopping online, be sure to read reviews and compare prices before making a purchase. Finding value budget dart sets can be easy if you do your research. For instance, checking product descriptions and seeing if they match customer feedback about the dartboard is a great way to get a great product. Looking for Finding Value Budget Dart Sets can be a good starting point.
Maintaining Your Dartboard Surround
Proper maintenance will help extend the life of your dartboard surround and keep it looking its best.
- Regular Cleaning: Wipe down the surround with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the material.
- Repairing Dart Holes: For foam or rubber surrounds, you can often repair small dart holes with a dab of adhesive or filler.
- Proper Storage: If you need to store the surround, keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.
Alternatives to Dartboard Surrounds
While buying dartboard surrounds is the most common solution, there are also alternative methods for protecting your walls from stray darts.
- Cork Boards: Large cork boards can be mounted behind the dartboard to provide a protective surface.
- Fabric Backdrops: Hanging a thick fabric backdrop behind the dartboard can also help absorb impacts.
- DIY Solutions: Some players create their own surrounds using materials like plywood, foam padding, and fabric covering.
However, these alternatives may not offer the same level of protection or aesthetic appeal as a dedicated dartboard surround.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Dartboard Surrounds
To ensure you make the right purchase, avoid these common mistakes when buying dartboard surrounds:
- Choosing the Wrong Size: Make sure the surround is large enough to provide adequate protection around the dartboard.
- Ignoring Material Quality: Don’t sacrifice quality for price. Choose a durable material that will last.
- Neglecting Installation: Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance.
- Overlooking Style: Select a style that complements your dartboard and game room décor.
- Not Reading Reviews: Before buying online, read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the product’s quality and performance.
In conclusion, protecting your walls and enhancing your dart playing experience starts with buying dartboard surrounds. By considering the material, size, style, and installation requirements, you can find the perfect surround to suit your needs and budget. A well-chosen surround not only safeguards your home but also adds a professional touch to your dart setup. Don’t wait until you’ve made a few holes in your wall – invest in a dartboard surround today and enjoy worry-free dart games for years to come.
Hi, I’m Dieter, and I created Dartcounter (Dartcounterapp.com). My motivation wasn’t being a darts expert – quite the opposite! When I first started playing, I loved the game but found keeping accurate scores and tracking stats difficult and distracting.
I figured I couldn’t be the only one struggling with this. So, I decided to build a solution: an easy-to-use application that everyone, no matter their experience level, could use to manage scoring effortlessly.
My goal for Dartcounter was simple: let the app handle the numbers – the scoring, the averages, the stats, even checkout suggestions – so players could focus purely on their throw and enjoying the game. It began as a way to solve my own beginner’s problem, and I’m thrilled it has grown into a helpful tool for the wider darts community.