Avoid Wall Damage By Using Command Strips To Hang Mirrors Securely

Hanging mirrors can often feel like a daunting task. Making holes in the wall for nails or screws risks leaving behind damage. But what if we told you there was an easier, safer solution? Enter Command strips.

Command strips provide a brilliant alternative for mounting mirrors without causing any harm to walls. These handy adhesive strips hold firmly without nails or drills, yet pull away cleanly when needed. No sticky residue or torn paint in sight! Whether renting an apartment or protecting pristine walls in a new home, Command strips are a game changing way to hang mirrors securely.

What Are Command Strips?

Command strips are double-sided adhesive strips made specifically for hanging objects on walls and other surfaces. The thick foam adhesive allows you to apply pressure, sticking the strip to the wall on one side and your mirror on the other side. No tools like hammers or drills required!

Command strips hold tightly, but can be removed by stretching the strip slowly against itself. When removed properly, the adhesive peels off the wall cleanly without leaving any marks or sticky glue behind. This makes them ideal for temporary use or situations where nail holes would be problematic.

Benefits of Using Command Strips for Mirrors

• Prevent damage from nails, screws, or molly bolts
• Allow repositioning and easy removal when needed
• Great for renters who can't make holes in walls
• Work on a variety of surfaces like drywall, tile, metal, and wood
• Remove cleanly without leaving sticky residue

Because they don't damage walls or require drilling, Command strips are perfect for hanging lightweight to medium weight mirrors in places like rentals, dorm rooms, and bathrooms where holes may be an issue. They provide security without the permanent commitment of nails.

Command Strip Weight Limits

Command strips come in a range of sizes and weight capacities:

• Small strips hold up to 1 lb
• Medium strips hold up to 3 lbs
• Large strips hold up to 7 lbs
• X-large strips hold up to 16 lbs

To find the right strips, weigh your mirror or calculate its estimated weight. Then choose strips rated to hold double that amount. This provides extra holding power as an added safety factor.

Choosing the Right Command Strips

Start by measuring the width of your mirror's frame to determine how many strips you'll need. For smaller mirrors, two strips on top may suffice. Larger, heavier mirrors may require strips along the top and bottom.

Next, check the weight of your mirror and purchase Command strips sized to hold double that weight. If your mirror weighs 11 lbs, get Large strips rated for 16 lbs or more. For big mirrors, you may need multiple strips along the top evenly spaced for stability.

Tips for Choosing Strips

• Measure mirror width to calculate quantity needed
• Check mirror weight to determine proper strip size
• Purchase strips rated for double the weight
• Add extra strips for heavier mirrors
• Space multiple strips evenly along frame

Getting the right size and number of strips ensures your mirror mounts securely and stays firmly planted on the wall.

Proper Placement of Command Strips

For best results, position Command strips vertically in the top outer corners of your mirror's frame. Follow these steps:

1. Clean wall area with rubbing alcohol and let dry
2. Remove strip liners and press adhesive to wall
3. Remove mirror backings and press frame onto strips
4. Apply steady pressure for 30 seconds per strip

If hanging a larger, heavier mirror, also add horizontal strips to the bottom corners for extra support. Press each strip firmly for a full 30 seconds to maximize adhesion.

Key Placement Tips

• Wipe wall area with rubbing alcohol before sticking
• Apply strips vertically to top outer frame corners
• Add horizontal strips to bottom corners on heavy mirrors
• Press strips for 30 seconds after mounting mirror

Following manufacturer instructions for preparation, placement, and pressure application results in the strongest grip.

Tips for Getting the Best Hold

While Command strips make mirror hanging easy, there are some tricks to getting the strongest adhesion possible:

• Allow fresh paint to fully cure before applying strips
• Avoid newly painted walls which take 30 days to cure
• Press each strip firmly for 30+ seconds after mounting
• Avoid hanging mirrors in humid bathrooms
• Do not mount in direct sunlight which can weaken adhesive

Taking these extra steps helps Command strips achieve the maximum grip strength for securely holding your mirrors in place.

Alternative Adhesives

While Command is the most popular, other adhesive options like VELCRO Brand ONE-WRAP Tape or 3M Picture Hanging Strips also allow damage-free mirror mounting. These provide other removable solutions for those seeking extra strength.

Prep Walls for Improved Adhesion

For porous or textured walls, try these tips:

• Clean thoroughly then apply adhesive primer
• Use high-bond primer before mounting strips

Priming helps seal surfaces and improves grip on trickier wall types like brick, concrete, or tile.

Environmental factors can impact adhesive performance:

• Avoid very humid rooms like bathrooms
• Prevent sun shining directly on mounted mirrors

Extreme humidity and heat can cause adhesive to lose tackiness over time. Mount mirrors in moderate conditions whenever possible.

While nails provide a sense of security, Command strips offer a damage-free alternative for hanging mirrors. Follow manufacturer instructions carefully for best results. With some thoughtful preparation and placement, you can mount mirrors securely without marring walls. Command strips help preserve your wall's pristine finish while keeping your mirrors firmly in place.