Frequently Asked Questions About Command™ Products
Which surfaces do Command™ Strips work on? Can Command™ Strips be used on brick or other textured walls? Are Command™ Hooks temporary or removable? Read the most frequently asked questions (and the answers!) to learn more about using Command™ Products.
Surfaces
To what surfaces will Command™ Products stick?
Painted, stained or varnished wood, glass, tile, painted cinder block, plaster, metal, and painted wallboard.
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Can I use Command™ Products on glass windows?
It is okay to use Command™ Products if the glass is not exposed to direct sunlight and not flooded with water. For glass shower doors use our special Water-Resistant line of products (blue strip) which are clearly marked on our packaging.
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Can Command™ Strips be used on brick?
No. Command™ Products are intended for mostly smooth surfaces such as those listed above. However, our products will stick to painted, smooth cinder block (the type found inside many school and office buildings).
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Can I use Command™ Products on fresh paint?
Paint should be fully cured (check paint can for manufacturer's cure time) before using Command Products. We recommend waiting 28 days before use on fresh paint. Also, alcohol may remove or dull the surface of fresh paint.
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Do Command™ Products work on wallpaper?
No. Most wallpapers are too delicate and can tear when adhesives are applied.
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Will Command™ Picture Hanging Strips hold soundproofing acoustic foam board or decorative plates?
Yes, provided the item is within the weight limit specified for Command™ Picture Hanging Strips. We do not recommend using Command™ Picture Hanging Strips for hanging tapestry or other fabrics. For decorative plates, please ensure there is a smooth surface for the strip to adhere to. Do not hang valuable or irreplaceable items.
Climate and Temperature
What can happen to Command™ Products in Extreme Heat or highly humid climates?
The adhesives on Command products may soften at temperatures above 40°C. If you are expecting a heatwave, it is recommended you remove any picture frames and then re-mount when weather conditions return to normal. In highly humid locations within the home such as in the bathroom or in parts of the country that experiences regular high humidity, try our special Water-Resistant line of products (blue strip) which are clearly marked on our packaging.
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Can I use Command™ Products in my car?
Because the adhesive could soften and lose adhesion above 51°C, we don't recommend using it in your car. In addition, vinyl dashboards and door panels contain high amounts of plasticisers to maintain flexibility, and this makes adhesion to these surfaces difficult.
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Can I use Command™ Products outside in cold climates?
Apply Command™ Products when the temperature is above 15°C. The products hold strongly down to -5°C.
Product Information and Use
Can I use more than one hook if I want to hang an item that's heavier than the weight listed on the package?
No. We don't recommend it. Weight may not be distributed equally and can result in failure.
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How long do Command™ Hooks and Strips last? What is their expected life span?
Command™ adhesive is designed to stay in place for as long as you need it to, and will stay put for many years. Therefore, Command™ Hooks and be used as temporary or permanent hanging solutions. When you do want to take them down, they stretch off cleanly, without damaging your walls.
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Are Command™ Hooks waterproof?
Command™ Hooks are water-resistant. Command™ Water-Resistant Strips also hold strongly in humid environments.
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What is the strongest Command™ Hook?
The strongest is the Command™ 15lb X-Large Utility Hook, which can hang heavy items up to 15 lbs or up to 6.8 kg. Check our How to Choose Hooks article to see the hooks that meet your item's weight requirements.
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What size of Command™ Picture Strips do I need to use?
See our guides to selecting the right size and amount of Command™ Picture Strips for your frame.
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What are some possible uses for Command™ Products?
Hooks are perfect for hanging inside cupboards, closets, lockers or on display in kitchens, laundries, entryways, bedrooms, bathrooms, boats and campers. Learn more from our blog here. Most packages of hooks come with extra strips so the hooks can be reused or repositioned.
Picture Hanging Strips are great for hanging one or multiple picture frames without wall damage. We also have dedicated picture hangers that suit frames with sawtooth and wire-back attachments, easle back stands and canvases. Our diverse range of products help you be more organised, whether it's mounting mops and brooms or hanging up decorations for your next celebration.
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What happens if I pull too hard and the strip breaks?
Simply heat up the base plate with a hair dryer to soften the adhesive. Then use dental floss to gently cut through the foam to remove the hook or hanger from the surface. Stretch or peel off the remaining adhesive. See How to Use
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Why do I have to wait an hour before using the product?
The one-hour wait ensures that the adhesive has had enough time to build strong adhesion to the wall or surface.
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Do you have to use rubbing alcohol for Command™ Hooks and Strips? Why can't I clean the surface with a household cleaner?
Many household and window cleaners leave behind a very thin layer of residue that affects how strongly the adhesive will bond to the surface. Use Isopropyl Alcohol available through chemists or local hardware stores. Methylated spirit is not recommended.
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Is there latex in Command™ Strips?
No. Command™ Strips contain an adhesive that is a synthetic rubber resin and does not contain natural rubber latex.
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Where can I buy Command™ Products?
Command™ Products are available at many retail stores and online. Visit our product catalogue, click through to your favorite Command™ product, and navigate to the Where to Buy button to find a store near you.
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How Much Weight Can Command™ Strips Hold?
Weights vary depending on which product is being used. Check out the product weight limits to find the right product based on the weight of the item you want to hang.
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Can I reuse Command™ Picture Hanging Strips?
No, Command™ Picture Hanging Strips are for one-time use only. Command™ Picture Hangers (Universal and Canvas Hangers) may be reused with a Command™ Refill Strip (see instructions for more information).
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Should Command™ Picture Hanging Strips be used vertically or horizontally?
They can be used either direction. However, best to use vertically for optimal performance and removal.
Troubleshooting
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My picture frame won't stay on the wall?
Ensure that you have left at least one hour before you hang your picture frame. Once you have positioned the frame in initial application, we always recommend that you remove the frame from the wall (grab frame at the bottom and peel off surface).
Once the frame is taken down, then make sure you press firmly on all the strips again for 30 seconds to ensure they are firmly in place (i.e. press on strips on the wall and on the back of the frame). Wait one hour before rehanging picture (to allow the adhesive to bond), and when doing so, listen for the 'click' to ensure the strips are 'locked' in place.
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Both sets of Picture Strips come away from the wall after removing frame?
Ensure strips have been separated along perforations before pairing together. Ensure you have pushed each set of strips firmly through the frame for 30 seconds when first applied.
For further information, please contact us at 1-800-425-3030.Ensure strips have been separated along perforations before pairing together. Ensure you have pushed each set of strips firmly through the frame for 30 seconds when first applied.
For further information, please contact us at 1-800-425-3030.
