No, we recommend isopropyl alcohol for preparing surfaces before applying adhesive due to its ability to effectively remove contaminants such as dirt, oils, and grease. These substances 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.

In contrast, other 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.

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.

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.

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.

Using a hair dryer, apply low heat to the adhesive to soften the material and attempt removal as per packaging instructions.

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

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.

The one-hour wait ensures that the adhesive has had enough time to build strong adhesion to the wall or surface.

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

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 (2-3 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.