DIY Builds
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Why use rubbing alcohol for Command strips?

Strips work best on clean, smooth surfaces, so wipe the wall with isopropyl rubbing alcohol (methylated spirits) first. This will ensure your strip bonds properly with the wall. Avoid using other surface sprays or cleaning wipes, which may leave a slippery residue.

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Why shouldn't you put a mattress on the ground?
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Prevent pictures from falling down or damaging your walls with these handy and versatile strips. Whether you're renting your home or not, Command strips are a home decorator's best friend. The strips, hooks and holdalls can solve myriad problems around the home for storage and display, decor and organisation. With new products continuing to be added to the lineup, there's something for everyone and every style of home. Plan and create your own gallery wall in your bedroom, living room or hallway using Command hooks for pictures or a collection of artworks. Use hooks and holders to hang and organise kitchen utensils, cleaning essentials and even storage, such as spice racks However, they require careful preparation and application to get the best results and have them (and your artwork) stay put. Take a closer look at the packet for clear instructions on how to use Command strips, but as a guide, here's what you're probably doing wrong.

1. You're using them on rough surfaces

Command strips can only be applied to smooth surfaces. Avoid adhering them to brick walls, textured wallpaper, concrete or timber.

2. You don't prepare the surface correctly

Strips work best on clean, smooth surfaces, so wipe the wall with isopropyl rubbing alcohol (methylated spirits) first. This will ensure your strip bonds properly with the wall. Avoid using other surface sprays or cleaning wipes, which may leave a slippery residue.

3. You rush the job

If you've just painted your walls , you need to be patient and wait at least a week until using the strips. For some Command hooks, once attached to a wall, you'll need to wait up to one hour before you hang your item on it. Check the packet for correct timing.

4. You don't press hard enough

The stronger you apply pressure when installing them, the better the strip will adhere to the wall. Read instructions carefully and make sure you press firmly along the whole strip, not just in one spot.

5. You disregard the weight guidelines

The weight restrictions are specified on each product, so carefully weigh your artwork or photo frame before choosing the correct strips. Some hooks can hold over 3kg so they're great for larger items, or in the laundry or garage to hang tools and cleaning equipment.

6. You don't pull down when removing

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Do I need planning permission for a garden shed?

You must apply for householder planning permission to erect a garden building, greenhouse or shed if: the total area of ground covered will be...

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Can goats live in a shed?

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Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

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Are shelves with brackets stronger than floating shelves?

Floating shelves offer a stylish way to save space and create a unique accent in any room of your home. And while they may look fragile hanging on the wall – they are anything but fragile. In fact, when installed properly, they are stronger than shelves supported with traditional brackets and screws.

Shelves are one the handiest features in any home.

Whether fixed, as in a book shelf; adjustable, or individual brackets, shelves have a myriad of uses. Shelving brackets are made of wood or metal and come in every style imaginable. A unique design is the floating shelf. If you have watched any television design show recently, you have seen designers use the floating shelf as a replacement for traditional box-style kitchen cabinets or as a modern night stand. Floating shelves offer a stylish way to save space and create a unique accent in any room of your home. And while they may look fragile hanging on the wall – they are anything but fragile. In fact, when installed properly, they are stronger than shelves supported with traditional brackets and screws. This open shelving concept uses a hidden metal support in the wall that attaches inside the wood shelf. The floating shelf can be placed almost anywhere as there are no large brackets hanging below the shelf. Minimalist design is a popular style now and floating shelves are perfect in this style room giving a light and airy look. In addition to traditional wooden and metal shelf brackets, Van Dyke’s Restorers now has several styles of floating shelves and brackets from Designs of Distinction including straight shelves from 9 inches to 60 inches in length, and a handy, space-saving corner model. The shelves are shipped unfinished. Choose from Alder, Hard Maple, Cherry, Red Oak and Walnut woods.

You can see the floating shelf selections here.

The floating shelf has two main components – a wooden shelf and a mounting bracket. Some floating shelves use a bracket and rod system.

MOUNTNG THE SHELVES

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