what is the best material?
Baltic Birch
Baltic Birch is one of the smoothest and most durable materials that you can use, but you have to know what you're looking for. Not every supplier is created equal. All Tournament grade boards are made of a 3/4" baltic birch plywood. Thickness isn't usually the problem, it's how many layers (ply) are in the wood. The cheapest option will have about 3-4 layers. These pieces usually have large voids (air pockets) in-between layers and the strength is comprimised. We use an 10 ply baltic birch that maximizes the woods strength and contains no voids. Once it's finished it's as smooth as glass and incredibly strong.
PVC
If you're looking for something that can be left outside regardless of the weather, PVC is your option. This is the most expensive material that can be used, but when properly assembled you have a very strong and weather proof set of cornhole boards. The only thing thats a drawback is that the surface doesn't play like a set of Baltic Birch boards. PVC can slow down a lot because of the summer heat, or speed up a lot in the cold months. But if you own a bar or restaurant and don't want to bring your boards in every night, PVC will be your friend.
MDF
MDF is a very smooth material and available at just about every wood supplier. It can be very inexpensive but it comes with some pretty big drawbacks. MDF is extremely heavy due to the density of the fiberboard. MDF soaks up liquids like a sponge. If you leave them out in the rain, spill a drink, or even expose it to super humid weather, the top will warp. MDF requires a lot of prep time if you plan on painting or printing on it. Since it soaks up liquids you will need several coats of paint or several passes with your printer to have a vibrant image.
Plywood
A very inexpensive option. Plywood costs significantly less than a lot of its counterparts but the playing surface is very rough and full of voids. If you are looking for a smooth surface this may not be the best option for you.
Cement
The ultimate in weather proof play. Once you make cement boards, they're not going anywhere or wearing due to weather. The drawbacks are significant. The surface is extremely course and can destroy a set of bags in just a couple rounds. They're not mobile and can be VERY expensive to make. If you own a park and just want something out for people to use, cement would be your option.
Direct Print vs. Vinyl
Direct Print
Looking for something that won't fade, peel, bubble or disintegrate over time? Look no further than UV Direct Print. Each print is printed directly onto the wood playing surface using a UV cured ink. This is the same stuff they use for outdoor signs. Once it's sealed, the print is in the wood FOREVER. UV printers are quick, print in HD, and are the preferred method for designing boards.
Vinyl Stickers
Vinyl stickers are kind of the "Old School" approach to cornhole designs. A vinyl printer costs dramatically less than a UV printer so it's easier for someone to get started. Vinyl stickers can be printed in HD but thats where the benefits really end. Installing a 2'x4' vinyl sticker should be done by a professional to make sure there are no air bubbles and that the sticker is lined up properly. Over time the stickers separate from the wood and bunch up, bubble, or tear. This impacts the playing surface. Vinyl stickers cannot be sealed with polyurethane, so water can get under it and potentially ruin your top.
What's the difference between our cornhole boards?
Still not sure which board is the best for you? Check out the differences between our two most popular cornhole board models.
See what makes our Tournament Edition boards INCREDIBLE!
Backyard pro
Cornhole Boards
Looking for something a little more cost effective without compromising quality? Thats what you get with our BackYard Pro boards. Same playing surface but we added a pine frame, single thick legs, and a nylon rope for easy transportation.
See what makes our BackYard Pro boards the best alternative to our Tournament Edition boards.
ALL WEATHER
Cornhole Boards
These boards are perfect for baggers who do not want to worry about bringing their boards in every night, they may play in a wet or overly humid climate, or the beer flows and spills. These are tournament edition boards that are made out of PVC.
See what makes our All Weather boards the best alternative to our Tournament Edition boards.