General Frequently Asked Questions

Removable Hooks

Is there an ideal application temperature?

For all Permastik Removable Hooks, the ideal application temperature is 10-40°C. For applications below 10°C heat the surface with a hair dryer and apply to surface while the temperature is still above 10°C.

Is my surface suitable for adhesive hooks?

Things to consider for your surface:

Clean and Dry: The surface must be free of dirt, oils, moisture, or residues to ensure optimal adhesion.

Smooth or Appropriate Texture: The surface should be smooth for most adhesives, but some adhesives may work better on lightly textured or porous surfaces.

Material Compatibility: Ensure the surface material (e.g., plastic, metal, wood) is compatible with the adhesive, and consider surface treatments if necessary (e.g., sanding, priming) for low-energy materials.

Freshly Painted Walls

Paint should be fully cured (check paint can for manufacturer’s cure time) before using any Permastik Product. We recommend waiting at the very least a week before use on fresh paint. Also, isopropyl alcohol used to prepare the surface may remove or dull the surface of fresh paint.

Old Painted Walls

Old painted walls are not ideal for adhesive products because paint can peel, flake, or develop an uneven surface, weakening the adhesive bond. Contaminants like dirt, oils, and paint additives (especially in glossy or oil-based paints) can also interfere with adhesion. Multiple layers of paint or previous treatments may create barriers that prevent the adhesive from gripping properly.

Wallpaper

Most wallpapers are too delicate and can tear when adhesives are applied. Installation is not recommended.

What's the best way to clean/prep the surface?

We recommend using isopropyl alcohol for preparing surfaces before applying adhesive due to its ability to effectively remove contaminants such as dirt, oils, and grease. General cleaners can impede the adhesive’s ability to form a strong bond. Alcohol evaporates rapidly, leaving the surface clean, dry, and ready for adhesion without any residue.

Household cleaners—such as all-purpose cleaners or dish soap—may leave behind residual oils, surfactants, or other chemicals that can weaken the adhesive's bond. Some cleaners might also contain additives that could interfere with the curing or setting process of the adhesive.

Suitable Cleaner:

  • Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) – Quickly removes oils, dirt, and grime without leaving residue.

Unsuitable Cleaners:

  • Dish soap – Leaves behind oils and residues that can interfere with adhesive bonding.
  • All-purpose cleaners – May contain surfactants or oils that prevent a strong bond.
  • Glass cleaner – Some formulas include oils or fragrances that could affect adhesion.
  • Windex or other ammonia-based cleaners – While they clean well, they might leave traces of chemicals that interfere with adhesives.
  • Spray cleaners with wax or polish – These often leave a thin film that could prevent proper adhesion.

What happens if I pull too hard and the strip breaks?

Use dental floss to gently cut through the adhesive substrate and remove the object from the surface. Stretch or peel off the remaining adhesive, use an adhesive solvent to best results.

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.

Can I use more than 1 hook to hang an item heavier than the weight limit?

Due to safety concerns, it is not recommended to exceed the weight limits for Permastik Removable Hooks. 

I've have the hooks installed for a few years, will they still remove easily?

Depending on the hook, the surface and adhesive type, you may need a little extra help with removing the hook if it's been an extended period of time (3+ years).

Apply low heat using a hair dryer to soften the adhesive and attempt removal as per the packaging instructions.

Ensure to pull tabs very slowly to allow the adhesive maximum time to release.

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General Frequently Asked Questions

Mounting Tapes

Is there an ideal application temperature?

Permastik Mounting Tapes, can be used in a wide range of temperatures.

Indoor Mounting Tape: 0°C - 40°C.
Outdoor Mounting Tape - Black: -25°C - 90°C.
Outdoor Mounting Tape - Clear: -25°C - 120°C.
Mirror Mounting Tape: -20°C - 60°C.
Ultra Bond Mounting Tape: -20°C - 120°C.

For applications at low temperatures, you may find better application results by heating the surface to a minimum of 10°C. Heat the area with a hair dryer and apply the tape to surface while the temperature is still above 10°C.

What surfaces will mounting tapes stick to?

Permastik Mounting Tapes work on most surfaces that are dry, clean and smooth.

Please note certain surfaces will require priming or sealing such as porous surfaces, for example: plaster, concrete and also absorbent surfaces such as untreated timber and fabrics. Metals with oxidised surfaces such as aluminium, copper and brass may need priming or abrading. Low energy surfaces such as non-stick paints or polypropylene plastics containing aggressive plasticisers may also need treatment.

Things to consider for your surface:

Clean and Dry: The surface must be free of dirt, oils, moisture, or residues to ensure optimal adhesion.

Smooth or Appropriate Texture: The surface should be smooth for most adhesives, but some adhesives may work better on lightly textured or porous surfaces.

Material Compatibility: Ensure the surface material (e.g., plastic, metal, wood) is compatible with the adhesive, and consider surface treatments if necessary (e.g., sanding, priming) for low-energy materials.

Common mounting surfaces:

Freshly Painted Walls

Paint should be fully cured (check paint can for manufacturer’s cure time) before using any Permastik Product. We recommend waiting at the very least a week before use on fresh paint. Also, isopropyl alcohol used to prepare the surface may remove or dull the surface of fresh paint.

Old Painted Walls

Old painted walls are not ideal for adhesive products because paint can peel, flake, or develop an uneven surface, weakening the adhesive bond. Contaminants like dirt, oils, and paint additives (especially in glossy or oil-based paints) can also interfere with adhesion. Multiple layers of paint or previous treatments may create barriers that prevent the adhesive from gripping properly.

Wallpaper

Most wallpapers are too delicate and can tear when adhesives are applied. Installation is not recommended.

Will mounting tape damage painted walls or other surfaces?

Mounting Tape is intended to be permanent, and removal may damage surfaces.

If you do wish to remove mounting tape we recommend using dental floss to gently cut through the foam substrate and remove the object from the surface. Stretch or peel off the remaining adhesive, use an adhesive solvent for best results.

Are the mounting tapes waterproof and weatherproof?

Permastik Outdoor Mounting and Clear Mounting Tapes have UV-resistant adhesives, so they hold up under UV exposure. These tapes are also waterproof as long as they are applied to a clean dry surface.

Can you exceed the weight limits by applying more tape?

Due to safety concerns, it is not recommended to exceed the weight limits for Permastik Mounting Tapes. 

How thick is the tape?

Permastik Mounting Tapes come in a variety of thicknesses between 1-3mm.

Insect Screens

I have left over frame from my Adjustable Insect Screen Kit and want to make another, how do I get more joiner parts?

Additional joiner packs are available for order here.

My bed net is too short, how do I get it to hang properly with my bed?

Using some string or ribbon tied to the loop at the top or your bed net, you can hang this from the ceiling hook to adjust and customise the height of your bed net.