Slatwall also referred to as slat wall, slotwall, and slot wall has become one of the most popular options for displaying light to medium weight merchandise. Besides the color/finish of your slatwall panels you will have to choose the groove spacing, the orientation (vertical or horizontal), the groove inserts, uses and installation.
1. Groove Spacing:
Slatwall is available with several grove spacing options to meet the level of adjustability you may have for your display arrangement. Grooves that accept the accessory fixtures come standard in 3”, 4” and 6” centers. The inch measurement refers to the distance from the middle on one groove to the next. Slatwall with 3” centers will provide the most vertical adjustment options while the 6” centers will have fewer grooves and vertical adjustment but provides a less busy appearance. If you need maximum use of your display space then the 3” centers would be your best choice. However, if you want a more sparsely merchandised display area to highlight your products without the distraction of unneeded grooves then the 4” or 6” would best serve your display.
2. Groove Inserts:
Slatwall comes standard with bare wood grooves and may be used with no inserts. Inserts are used to cover the bare wood and with some types, will add strength to the display capacity of the board. Generally, slatwall without inserts is designed for lightweight merchandise. Our vinyl inserts are intended to hide the bare wood groove and give the slat wall a more finished look. Additionally, the vinyl inserts can be used to produce a contrast between the board and the grooves. Vinyl inserts do not add to the weight bearing capacity of the board but are cosmetic in nature. For added strength, you will want to use aluminum channel inserts. Aluminum inserts are available in satin and black, will add strength to the slatwall as well as hide the bare groove giving your display a more finished appearance.
3. Orientation:
Slatwall panels measure 4 feet x 8 feet. Horizontal orientation is 4 feet high x 8 feet long while vertical orientation is 8 feet high x 4 feet wide. Most applications can be most easily accomplished with horizontal panels. When covering a wall 8 feet in height you simply stack one 4 feet high board above the other giving you 8 feet of vertical coverage. As an example; if you had a 40 foot wall that you wanted cover at a height of 8 feet you would require 10 panels, 5 panels 2 rows high.
4. Finishes:
Slatwall comes with a variety of finishes. Paint Ready finish is just that, a plain surface ready to be painted your favorite color. Melamine finish is a low-pressure laminate finish that offers an economical alternative to high-pressure laminate and specialty finishes.
5. Uses:
While slatwall is most commonly used to cover a wall area we also make custom floor gondola fixtures so you can have the same versatility in your floor fixtures. Custom made slatwall gondolas can be made using the same slatwall so they will match your slatwall on the walls giving your store a coordinated appearance.
6. Installation:
Slatwall panels weigh approximately 85 lbs. each so you will need two able bodied persons to install the panels. You will need to determine the type of wall construction where you will install the slatwall. For wood or metal stud walls covered with drywall use 2” drywall screws placed in the groove through to the stud behind the drywall. It is recommended that you place one screw every 12 inches starting at the top of the panel down towards the floor for each stud behind the panel. Make sure that you put screws at the end of each panel not more than 6” inches from the panel end so the panels do not draw away from the wall over time. Do not place screws in the face of the board, it is not necessary and will distract from its appearance.
Allen Display has a complete of slatwall panels and slatwall accessories on our website. Visit our website or call today to inquire about our slatwall offerings.
