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Best Practices for Using HangNailz Stick’ums

Best Practices for Using HangNailz Stick’ums

If you’re looking to mount items securely on your walls without the need for tools, HangNailz Stick’ums are a fantastic solution. They’re versatile, strong, and easy to use, but like any tool, there are best practices to follow for optimal results.

Here’s a guide on the dos and don’ts of using Stick’ums to help you make the most of these innovative wall mounts.

1) Stick to Two Stick’ums for Maximum Effectiveness
  • Limit to Two: In most cases, you won’t need more than two Stick’ums to hold your item securely. Using just two helps distribute weight effectively and prevents issues related to torque and uneven force distribution.
  • Horizontal Alignment: Whenever possible, place the two Stick’ums in a horizontal line, side by side. Avoid placing additional Stick’ums below the primary two, as adding more below will shift the shear weight to the lowest point. This can create a “torquing effect,” which may cause the upper Stick’ums to pull away from the wall over time.
  • High Placement: Place Stick’ums higher on the item you’re mounting. This allows the center of gravity to stay high, creating a stronger hold as more shear weight presses down, anchoring them firmly into the wall.

2) Utilize the Physics of Shear Force
  • Stick’ums work best when the item’s center of gravity is positioned so that it maximizes downward shear force. Think of it like a lever—the more weight pulling down on the item, the more the Stick’um prongs dig into the wall, gripping it securely.
  • By positioning Stick’ums high on your item, you create a “fulcrum” effect, which pushes the prongs firmly into the wall, making it capable of supporting more weight than if positioned lower.

3) Prepare Surfaces for Adhesive Pads
  • Clean the Surface: Adhesive pads need a clean surface to hold securely. Before applying, wipe down the area with alcohol or water and let it dry completely. This quick step helps ensure the adhesive bonds properly.
  • Apply Heat: Gently warming the adhesive pads before applying them can improve their grip, as it softens the adhesive, allowing it to bond more readily. If you apply a bit of heat, you don’t need to press as hard to secure the pads.
  • Let It Set: After attaching Stick’ums to your item, give the adhesive a few minutes to set before mounting the item on the wall. This extra time helps ensure the adhesive’s hold is strong and long-lasting.

4) For Heavier Applications, Consider Using A Construction Adhesive
  • If you need to mount an item that is too heavy for standard adhesive pads but can’t be drilled or screwed into (such as stone surfaces), consider using a construction adhesive like Liquid Nails or Gorilla Glue. This approach strengthens the hold and can support significantly heavier items.
  • Stick’ums can hold up to 35 pounds per mount with screws and in tests, they’ve supported up to 60 pounds per Stick’um under ideal conditions. With Construction adhesive or a Urethane glue you can typically match these results if the surface was prepped properly for this type of application (follow the instructions on the construction adhesive for best results). Just remember to apply adhesive carefully and allow time to dry for a secure hold.

5) When to Use Push’ums Instead of Stick’ums
  • In some situations, Stick’ums aren’t the best option. If you’re working with wide or rigid items that cross multiple studs, consider using Push’ums instead.
  • Walls built with wooden studs often have slight “waves” or unevenness, which can push against the Stick’um over time, causing it to pull out. In these cases, Push’ums or other professional-grade HangNailz solutions, like Push’um Pro Wall Hooks or Hang’um Anchors, are more reliable for handling heavier loads or mounting across uneven surfaces.
Final Thoughts
HangNailz Stick’ums are designed to make mounting quick and easy, but following these best practices can help you get the most out of them. By keeping to two Stick’ums, placing them high, preparing surfaces, and using construction adhesive when needed, you’ll create a secure, reliable hold for nearly any item. And remember, for those especially heavy or unique applications, there are always HangNailz options designed specifically for the job.

So go ahead, mount with confidence—and enjoy the strength and simplicity that Stick’ums bring to your walls!
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