Darts is a popular bar game that can also be played at home if you have enough space and the proper setup. Be warned, though: even when you use plastic-tipped darts, there is still the chance that a dart will stick in your drywall and cause damage. When you are looking for a place to hang your dartboard, take into consideration the proper measurements to be used when setting up a dartboard, and some of the things that can be done to protect your property.

Proper Setup Measurements

If you want to replicate the feel of playing tournament darts, take the time to measure your dart playing area properly. The proper measurements for setting up a dartboard are very precise: the board is exactly 5 feet 8 inches from the floor to the center of the bullseye, and the throwing line is exactly 7 feet 9 1/4 inches from the wall. So when you are evaluating the space you need for your dartboard, you will need a space that is at least 9 feet deep by 7 feet high to allow for the throwing motion of the arm and the arched flight of the dart. A comfortable playing area for 4 people is no less than 8 feet wide.

What to Avoid

It is best to place your dartboard in an open room to allow people to sit comfortably when they are not playing. Do not place your dartboard next to a window, especially if you intend to use the heavier metal-tipped darts. Do not place your dartboard on a door, next to a door or anywhere near an open doorway. Make sure there are no display shelves under the board, as darts often fall straight down even when they hit the board and can be difficult to find in a shelf full of display items. Do not mount your dartboard on a concrete wall, as that can damage darts and send them deflecting off into dangerous directions.

Mounting the Board

Mark the placement of your dartboard onto a 1/8-inch thick plywood backboard that extends at least 18 inches from the outer edge of the dartboard on all sides. Cover the plywood backboard in colored felt to make it more aesthetically pleasing. Mount the backboard flush against the wall, using the measurement for the center of the dartboard as the measurement for the center of the backboard. Use drywall anchors and screws to cleanly install the backboard. You may also want to put fluorescent lighting fixture over the dartboard to make the dartboard easier to see while playing. Hang the dartboard flush to the backboard, on its marked place and according to the mounting directions, with the "20" on top.

Source:

Nicedarts.com - Four Simple Tips on How to Hang a Dartboard

Diddleforthemiddle.com - How to Setup Your Dartboard

Cyberdarts.com - Darts Basics