
How To Fix Command Strip Damage on Wall
We’ve all been there – you finally found the perfect piece of artwork to complete your room’s decor, and you decide to use Command Strips to avoid any nail holes or wall damage. But as you go to remove those strips, you find that they’ve left behind some unsightly damage.
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Frustrating, right?
Luckily, we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you fix the damage caused by Command Strips and explore alternative hanging solutions to prevent future issues.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through identifying the damage caused by Command Strips, including paint peeling, holes in the wall, and sticky residue.
You’ll learn how to repair each type of damage and discover essential tips for preventing future wall damage. Plus, we’ll introduce you to alternative hanging solutions that can save your walls from any more harm.
Need further assistance with your home’s interior? At All Dry USA, our damage restoration specialists can assist with water, mold, and fire damage restoration in Florida, New York, North Carolina, and Texas. Get in touch today!
Identifying the Damage Caused by Command Strips
Command Strips offer a convenient and damage-free hanging solution for your artwork, photo frames, and decorations. However, if not used or removed properly, things don’t always go according to plan, and they can leave behind damage on your walls.
The most common types of wall damage caused by Command Strips include paint peeling, holes in the wall, and sticky residue. It’s crucial to identify the specific damage to know the right approach to fix it and avoid further complications.
The first step to repairing damage from Command Strips is to identify what type of damage you’re dealing with. In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into each type of damage and explain its causes and consequences to help you recognize the damage your Command Strips left behind.
After we’ve discussed each type of damage to help you identify what you’re up against, we’ll discuss how to repair it and take steps to prevent it from occurring again.
Paint Peeling
Paint peeling occurs when the top layer of paint separates from the surface it was applied to, and it can be caused by factors like moisture, age, or improper application. When removing Command Strips, improper removal techniques can lead to paint peeling, leaving unsightly patches on your once-pristine walls.
Holes in the Wall
Holes in your walls can be caused by various factors, such as nail holes, screws, drilling, insects, rodents, and termites. Command Strips, when not used according to their weight guidelines or removed incorrectly, can also leave holes in your walls.
Sticky Residue
Sticky residue is the remaining adhesive left behind when you remove Command Strips from the wall. This residue can be challenging to remove and may cause the wall to look unclean or even damage the paint underneath.
Repairing Paint Peeling
If you’ve identified paint peeling as the source of your wall damage, it’s time to fix it.
Repairing paint peeling involves a step-by-step process that includes scraping away loose paint, sanding the area, and repainting it. With the right tools and techniques, you can restore your wall to its original state and prevent further damage.
If there’s been any water damage in the affected area, consider contacting a professional restoration company for assistance before repainting.
In the following sections, we’ll walk you through the process of fixing paint peeling caused by Command Strips, ensuring a seamless finish that blends with the rest of your wall.
Scrape Away Loose Paint
The first step in repairing paint peeling is removing loose paint from the damaged area. To do this, you can use a scraper or putty knife. Be sure to cover the ground beneath the area to keep it neat while you work.
Gently scrape away the peeling paint, taking care not to damage the underlying surface. Once you’ve removed the loose paint, clean up the area to remove any debris.
Scraping away loose paint is crucial in preparing the wall for the subsequent steps of sanding and repainting. By carefully scraping away the loose paint, you’re setting the foundation for a smooth and seamless repair.
Sand the Area
Sanding the damaged area is essential in creating a smooth surface for painting. Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand the area, removing any rough edges and ensuring a uniform surface. Be careful not to damage the surrounding paint or wall material while sanding.
After sanding, use a soft cloth to gently clean the area. This step removes any remaining dust and debris, preparing the surface for primer and paint application.
By sanding and cleaning the area, you ensure the repaired surface will blend seamlessly with the rest of your wall.
Apply Primer and Paint
With the area sanded and cleaned, it’s time to apply primer and paint to complete the repair process. Primer helps create a smooth surface so the final result looks seamless. Clean the area with a damp cloth and let it dry before applying the primer.
To apply the primer and paint, use a roller or brush to apply 2-3 coats of primer, working in 1×1 foot sections from top to bottom. Then, apply two coats of paint. Once the paint is dry, clean up any paint that may have been spilled and properly clean up or dispose of the supplies you used.
Now, stand back and admire your hard work. With the paint applied, your walls should now be free of damage.
Fixing Holes in the Wall
If you’ve discovered holes in your wall caused by Command Strips, fear not – repairing these holes is entirely possible. Depending on the size of the hole, you’ll need to use different methods to repair it. In the following sections, we’ll explore how to fix both small and large holes in your wall.
Small Hole Repair
You can use spackle or drywall paste to fix small holes in the wall caused by Command Strips.
First, clear out any dust or debris from the hole to prepare the area for repair. Using a putty knife with a flat and sharp front tip, fill the hole with spackling paste or drywall paste. Move the knife multiple times until the surface is even, and then use the same knife to remove any excess mixture by running the flat end over the hole.
Once the paste has dried, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out the area. This step ensures a seamless finish and prepares the surface for repainting if necessary.
Large Hole Repair
You’ll need a more advanced repair method for larger holes in the wall caused by Command Strips. A patch kit or professional help can help fix these larger holes.
To repair a large hole using a patch kit, cut a patch from another piece of drywall and secure it with finished wood backing strips and drywall screws. Apply joint compound to the patch, sand the area for a smooth finish, and then apply primer and paint.
If you’re unsure about tackling this repair on your own, consider hiring a professional to fix the large hole and ensure a seamless repair.
Removing Sticky Residue
If you’ve removed Command Strips from your wall and discovered sticky residue left behind, don’t worry – there are methods to remove it without causing damage. In the following sections, we’ll discuss how to use gentle adhesive removers and scraping techniques to remove sticky residue.
Use a Gentle Adhesive Remover
Various adhesive removers on the market can safely remove sticky residue from walls. Some common gentle adhesive removers include isopropyl rubbing alcohol, acetone, baking soda, and vinegar.
To use a gentle adhesive remover, apply it to the residue and let it sit for a few minutes. Afterward, use a cloth or sponge to wipe away the residue. Be gentle when using adhesive removers and scraping tools to avoid damaging your wall or paint.
Scrape and Wipe Clean
In addition to adhesive removers, scraping techniques can also be employed to remove sticky residue from walls. A plastic scraper or putty knife can be used to gently scrape away the residue without damaging your wall or paint.
Once the residue is removed, use a damp cloth to clean the area, ensuring no residue remains.
Preventing Future Damage From Command Strips
Now that you’ve learned how to repair the command strip damage, preventing such damage from happening again is essential.
By choosing the right Command Strip and following proper installation and removal techniques, you can avoid future wall damage and hang your decor without any hassle.
In the following sections, we’ll discuss how to choose the right Command Strip, as well as proper installation and removal techniques.
Choose the Right Command Strip
Selecting the appropriate Command Strip for your specific hanging needs is crucial to prevent wall damage. Consider the weight of your artwork or photo frame and the type of surface you’re attaching it to before selecting a Command Strip.
By ensuring you choose the right Command Strip for your hanging needs, you can prevent damage caused by selecting a strip that can’t handle the weight of your item or that isn’t suitable for your wall surface.
Proper Installation and Removal
Following the manufacturer’s instructions for installing and removing Command Strips is essential to prevent wall damage. Proper installation and removal techniques ensure the adhesive bond is secure and minimize the risk of damaging your walls.
Alternative Hanging Solutions
If you’re looking for alternatives to Command Strips, there are other hanging solutions you can consider. Adhesive hooks and picture hanging strips are great options for damage-free hanging, and they can be just as convenient and easy to use as Command Strips.
In the following sections, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of adhesive hooks and picture rail systems, helping you choose the perfect hanging solution for your needs.
Adhesive Hooks
Adhesive strips, like adhesive hooks, are a popular alternative to Command Strips, offering a simple and damage-free hanging solution for lightweight items like keys, hats, and coats. They’re easy to install and remove, but they may not be able to hold as much weight as Command Hooks or hanging hooks.
By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of adhesive hooks, you can decide if they’re the right hanging solution for your needs and potentially avoid the damage caused by Command Strips.
Picture Rail Systems
Picture rail systems provide a damage-free solution for hanging frames, artwork, and decorations. These systems use a rail mounted on the wall, with hooks and wires to hang items from the rail. They’re a versatile and stylish alternative to Command Strips, offering a secure hanging method.
By considering picture rail systems as an alternative to Command Strips, you can enjoy an elegant hanging solution that keeps your textured walls in pristine condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Command Strips Leave Damage?
Command Strips are a beneficial way to hang decor in a space without damaging your wall — however, proper and careful removal methods must be observed. Otherwise, they can leave behind a sticky residue, peeled paint, or even cracks or holes in the wall.
Final Thoughts
While Command Strips are a convenient and often hassle-free method of hanging up decor in a space, improper removal can result in paint peeling, holes, and sticky residue. Fortunately, there are ways you can repair each type of damage and practices you can use in the future to prevent it from happening again.
With all this in mind, you can now coincidentally decorate your walls without the negative repercussions. You have the freedom to decorate your space however you want!
Still need help with interior damage? All Dry USA is available to help with everything from water and mold damage to fire damage restoration in Florida, New York, North Carolina, and Texas.
Have any questions? Get in touch with us at (888) 998-2379 today!
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