How To Frame a Pegboard

If you've ever worked with traditional pegboard—those pressed wood panels with rows of holes—you've probably realized they're not exactly plug-and-play. To use a wooden pegboard properly, it has to be framed or furring-stripped off the wall to allow room behind it for the hooks. And while DIYers enjoy a good project, having to frame a pegboard can quickly become more work than expected.

Here's a quick overview of how to frame a pegboard (traditionally)—and why Wall Control metal; pegboards are a far better, hassle-free alternative.

How to Traditionally Frame a Pegboard (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Measure Your Space

Measure the wall area where you plan to mount the pegboard. Mark the dimensions and make sure you're mounting into studs or have proper anchors for drywall.

Step 2: Cut Furring Strips

You'll need 1x2 or 1x3 wooden furring strips to create a frame behind the pegboard, Cut horizontal and vertical pieces to size with a miter saw or hand saw.

Step 3: Mark and Pre Drill

Mark where your furring strips will go and pre-drill holes in them. If you're attaching to studs, use a stud finder to mark them clearly.

Step 4: Mount the Frame to the Wall

Using wood screws, attach the furring strips to the wall—starting with the horizontal top and bottom pieces, then the vertical supports. This creates the gap behind the pegboard so hooks can insert fully.

Step 5: Mount the Pegboard to the Frame

Place your pegboard over the furring strips and screw it into the wooden frame. Be sure to line up the edges and secure it every 12-16 inches to avoid bowing.

Step 6: Paint or Seal

If you want the pegboard to look more polished or last longer in a humid environment, you may want to paint it or seal it before installation.

Step 7: Start Organizing

Now that your pegboard is finally framed and mounted, you can start placing hooks and accessories. Just be ready for the hooks that fall out or tilt under heavier items.

Or Skip the Work—Use Wall Control Instead

Now let's compare that to installing a Wall Control pegboard system.

Wall Control panels are made from 20-gauge steel, so they don't warp, crack, or sag. Even better, they come with a built-in 3/4-inch flange that acts as its own frame, creating the perfect standoff from the wall—no furring strips, no extra wood, and no extra steps.

You simply:

Pick your install location
Decide where you want to mount your panels on the wall.
Level and mark your panel
Hold the panel in place, make sure it’s level, and mark the mounting holes.
Drill your pilot holes
Pre-drill into wall studs or use drywall anchors if needed.
Mount the panel
Use the included screws to secure the panel to the wall.
Start organizing
Snap in your accessories and get to organizing in minutes.

That's it.

Plus, Wall Control panels support both traditional pegboard hooks and their more secure slotted accessories, so your tools stay in place. And with dozens of color options, your wall can look as good as it functions.

Save Time, Stress Less

Patience, tools, and time are all necessary to frame a pegboard. But with Wall Control, all of that hassle disappears. Whether you're outfitting a garage, kitchen, or craft room, Wall Control's pegboards are a faster, stronger, and smarter solution.

Ready to ditch the furring strips? Go with Wall Control—and mount with confidence.

Get Started With Wall Control