Adhesive hooks and strips—like the popular Command™ Strips—are a go-to solution for renters, decorators, and DIYers. They’re clean, they’re simple, and most importantly, they don’t require tools or damage the walls. But what happens when your wall isn’t drywall or tile—but brick? That’s where things get interesting. So let’s answer the key question: do Command Strips stick to brick?

Spoiler alert: Not always—and not well. But the reasons behind that matter, especially if you’re determined to make it work.

Understanding How Command Strips Work

Command Strips rely on a specific kind of pressure-sensitive adhesive that bonds best with smooth, non-porous surfaces. Think glass, painted walls, tiles, metal, or finished wood. These materials allow full surface contact between the adhesive and the object being hung.

The keyword here is contact. Adhesive needs maximum contact to bond properly.

Why Brick Is a Challenge

Brick presents multiple problems for any stick-on product:

  • Texture: Most bricks have a rough, uneven surface. That rugged texture prevents the adhesive from making full contact.
  • Porosity: Brick is porous. It absorbs moisture and doesn’t offer the solid, sealed surface that adhesives love.
  • Mortar lines: The gap between bricks (mortar) is even more irregular and gritty, which adds to the inconsistency.

Even if you press the strip firmly, chances are it will only touch the brick at a few small points—creating a weak, unreliable bond.

Do Command Strips Ever Work on Brick?

Sometimes. And it depends on the type of brick and how it’s finished.

When They Might Work:

  • Smooth, sealed brick: If your brick has been painted or sealed with a glossy finish, there’s a chance the Command Strip could adhere better.
  • Indoor use: Controlled environments (like temperature and humidity) might allow for slightly better results.
  • Lightweight items only: Even in the best conditions, only use Command Strips on brick to hang items that are extremely light.

When They Absolutely Won’t Work:

  • Raw, rough brick: Exterior walls, fireplaces, garden walls, and unsealed indoor brick are poor candidates.
  • Outdoor settings: Moisture, temperature swings, and dust weaken the adhesive rapidly.

In short, brick is rarely ideal—and in most cases, your strip will fail after a few hours or days.

Alternative Solutions for Hanging on Brick

If Command Strips don’t work, don’t worry—there are other options that don’t require drilling into your masonry:

  • Brick clips: These clamp around the brick itself, holding items without adhesives or tools. Perfect for brick that’s at least 2 ¼ inches tall.
  • Brick hangers: Designed for specific brick sizes, they use tension to grip the edges.
  • Removable adhesive hooks for masonry: Some third-party products are tailored for rougher surfaces than traditional Command Strips.

Still want to try adhesive? You can experiment with construction-grade double-sided tape, though it’s often messier and harder to remove.

Read More : Do Bricks Burn? A Look at Fire and Brick Behavior

Tips for Better Adhesion (If You Still Want to Try)

If you’re determined to use Command Strips on brick, here are a few practical tips to increase your odds:

  1. Clean the surface thoroughly – Use isopropyl alcohol to remove dust and debris.
  2. Test on a small area first – Try sticking the strip on one brick to see how well it bonds before committing.
  3. Press firmly for at least 30 seconds – Apply consistent pressure to help the adhesive grip.
  4. Use extra strips – Double up to distribute the weight if possible.

But even with all that effort, understand that failure is likely if the brick is textured or unsealed.

Conclusion: Should You Use Command Strips on Brick?

Command Strips are not designed for brick surfaces, especially rough or unsealed ones. While there are a few niche cases where they might stick, these are the exception, not the rule. If you’re hanging something important—or want your display to last—it’s better to look for purpose-built solutions like brick clips or masonry hangers.

So the next time you’re eyeing that exposed brick wall with decorating ambitions, consider your options carefully. With the right method, you can still get the aesthetic you want—without ruining your wall or your weekend.

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