Backing board for frames
The backing board supports the image, protects it permanently, and influences the durability of the entire framing. Depending on the value of the artwork and the intended use, different materials are used – from simple grey board to museum-quality backing boards.
Why is the backing board so important?
Direct contact with the artwork
The backing board is in full contact with the image and influences its long-term preservation.
Acid-free & age-resistant
High-quality materials prevent aging processes and protect sensitive works.
Stability
& flatness
It ensures that the image and mount remain permanently flat and dimensionally stable.
Protection against environmental influences
Special backing boards reduce the influence of air pollutants and moisture.
Which backing board is right for your project?
The choice of the right backing board depends on the value, material, and intended use of the artwork. The following overview helps in selecting the appropriate variant.
| Variant | Thickness | Acid-free | Self-adhesive | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RW-1 Grey board | 1.5 mm | Posters, prints, standard framing | ||
| RW-2 Kroma board (containing lignin) | 2.0 mm | ✓ | Prints with higher stability requirements, suitable for mounting | |
| RW-3 Laminated grey board | 2.0 mm | Photographs, high-quality prints | ||
| RW-5 Archival backing board | 0.5 mm | ✓ | Barrier paper, originals, collectibles, archiving | |
| RW-7 Self-adhesive backing board | 1.4 mm | ✓ | ✓ | Repositionable for photos, prints, quick assembly |
| RW-9 Self-adhesive backing board | 1.4 mm | ✓ | Photos, prints, quick assembly | |
| RW-10 Self-adhesive backing board | 2.5 mm | ✓ | Photos, prints, quick assembly | |
| RW-11 Archival backing board White | 2.0 mm | ✓ | Museum and archival framing | |
| RW-12 Archival backing board Cream | 2.0 mm | ✓ | Museum and archival framing | |
| RW-13 Archival backing board White | 1.0 mm | ✓ | High-quality framing with low profile height | |
| RW-14 Archival backing board Cream | 1.0 mm | ✓ | High-quality framing with low profile height |
Note: Many of our mount boards can also be used for individual custom-sized backing boards. This provides access to additional acid-free and museum-grade materials.
Individual custom-sized backing boards
In addition to our standard backing boards, all mount boards can also be used as backing boards. This gives you a large selection of acid-free, age-resistant, and museum-grade materials. In the Mount Designer, you can configure your backing board exactly in the desired format.
Frequently asked questions about backing boards
For originals, collectibles, and conservation framing, we recommend acid-free museum backing boards or Alphamount ArtCare®.
Acid-free materials prevent material-related aging processes and help to protect artworks in the long term.
Yes. All mount boards from our range can also be used as backing boards. This provides numerous acid-free and museum-grade materials.
For photographs and high-quality prints, acid-free backing boards such as Kroma board or laminated grey board are particularly suitable.
Self-adhesive backing boards facilitate the mounting of photos, prints, and presentations and are particularly practical for larger formats.