Whether hanging a piece of impressionist wall art or a warm family portrait, it can be challenging to put it up while keeping your walls free of marks. To achieve this, you should focus on the wall type and the weight of the piece. The good news is you can hang artwork without causing holes or marks.
With the proper tools, you can pick a method that works on almost any wall and learn how to care for your surfaces.Understanding Your Wall Type for the Best Hanging Solution
Before you choose a method for hanging your art, it helps to know what kind of wall you have at home. Different wall types call for different ways to keep your art in place.
- Brick and Concrete
Brick and concrete are common building materials. They are strong and built to last, yet they often have a porous nature.
- Wood Panels
Wood panels are often used to help with sound and to add a cozy feel. They might be made from real wood or newer forms of engineered wood boards.
- Drywall
Drywall is another common choice in many homes because it provides insulation. It is generally soft and produces a hollow sound when tapped.
The Best Damage-Free Hanging Solutions for Every Artwork Type
How you choose to hang your art is set by its dimensions and heft. Here are some tips to help you begin.
Lightweight Art & Posters
For lightweight art and posters, adhesive strips are your best friend. They’re easy to use and won’t leave any marks at all when you want to take them down or change things around.
Adding a personal touch to your home is simple with washi tape. This tool helps your artwork grab attention. It comes in various colors and styles, offering a simple way to add brightness to your room.
To add contrast and dimension to your space, magnetic wall hangers are likewise a great option to display art. Alternatively, you can also explore push pins, although these may leave tiny holes in your wall.
Medium-Weight Frames & Canvas Art
When it comes to medium-weight frames and canvas art, you’ll be surprised to know that command hooks and strips hold a decent amount of weight. Plus, it’s also great since these don’t leave any residue behind and are easy to remove as well.
If you have wall corners, you’ll find that using tension rods can be a game-changer. These are perfect for displaying multiple pieces which you can switch out without drilling.
However, if you’re concerned about the artwork’s weight and size and must drill, you might want to consider using screws with wall plugs to provide additional support.
Heavy or Large Artwork
Larger or heavier artworks need careful consideration and more durable solutions. For this, heavy-duty hooks, such as Hercules hooks or tremor hooks, in conjunction with wall studs, are your best bet. Together, these lend maximum support for your precious artwork.
Another option would be to display artwork using freestanding ledges or easels. These are stylish and modern and don’t damage your walls in any way.
Art hanging rail systems, such as those used in professional galleries and installations, would likewise work well for extremely heavy pieces. Consider hiring a professional to ensure proper installation and prevent wall damage.
Choosing the Best Damage-Free Hanging Method
When it comes to selecting the right solution for your needs, it mainly comes down to whether you prefer adhesive-based or non-adhesive-based solutions.
Adhesive-Based Solutions
Command strips and washi tapes fall under adhesive-based solutions. These are fantastic choices if you want to hang things without leaving a mark, but these are best for lightweight to medium-weight artwork. Adhesives come off easily, perfect for renters or those who simply want to replace their decor often.
Non-Adhesive Hanging Techniques
On the other hand, if adhesives aren’t your thing or you are simply dealing with heavier artwork, non-adhesive hanging options such as Hercules hooks or even professional installations, should work well. These approaches are ideal in situations where tape might not necessarily hold up, particularly in humid or painted areas of your home.
Tips for Removing and Replacing Artwork Without Wall Damage
Proper removal techniques should be undertaken to maintain the pristine condition of your walls. Use these tips to guide you in removing and replacing artwork without the need for touch-ups.
Proper Removal of Adhesive Strips and Hooks
Slowly pull the adhesive strips off. Do this by carefully pulling down on the adhesive strip, instead of in an outward manner, to keep the paint intact.
If you’re dealing with hooks, gently twist them to help loosen them up. This can reduce the strain on the wall.
Rearranging Without Drilling
To rearrange artwork without drilling, modular display systems will work in your favor. These let you swap out one artwork for another. You can also look into leaning artwork into the wall for a trendier and more contemporary look.
Restoring Small Wall Imperfections
Some holes or blemishes can’t be helped even after taking great care to remove artwork, but you don’t have to fret. Simply use a filler to patch up imperfections and paint over the area to blend it. Voila!
Mistakes to Avoid When Hanging Artwork
Steer clear of some common mistakes when hanging artwork. This way, you can keep both the artwork and your walls looking their best.
- Using the Wrong Hanging Method
We’ve mentioned before that different wall types require different solutions. It’s important to assess the kind of wall you have and the hanging technique that works best with it. For example, adhesive solutions may only work with certain wall types, leading to potential wall and artwork damage.
- Overloading Hooks and Adhesives
Another frequent oversight is ignoring the weight limits of hooks and adhesives, and by extension, your walls. Going beyond the stated weight capacity of these hooks and adhesive strips may cause the artwork to fall and come crashing down.
Wall studs are likewise overlooked by those looking to mount or hang their artwork. This can aid in evenly distributing the weight for heavier art pieces.
- Improper Surface Preparation
Your walls are susceptible to dirt and grime over time. If the build-up isn’t cleaned before hanging your artwork, grease and dust may prevent your adhesives from staying securely in place.
Conclusion
You can hang your artwork without hurting your walls if you use the right methods and plan carefully. By checking what kind of wall you have and picking a matching hanging approach, you can show your art while keeping your walls safe.
No matter which option you choose, the aim is to blend good looks with practical use so your walls stay in good shape for years.