Yes, you can hang acoustic panels using command strips, provided you're adhering them to a smooth surface and that the panels are lighter than the strip's weight limit.

Command strips are adhesive strips designed to attach objects to various surfaces without causing damage, making them a suitable option for hanging acoustic panels without the need for drilling.

However, command strips are not ideal for surfaces that are rough or non-stick, or in high-temperature or humid environments. Additionally, they should not be used for panels weighing over 10 kg (or 20 lb), which is the maximum weight limit for four pairs of extra-large command strips.

Let's look at the conditions under which you can effectively use command strips to hang acoustic panels.

Can Command Strips Hold Acoustic Panels?

Yes, command strips will hold acoustic panels that don't exceed their weight limit on the following surfaces:

Painted walls

Painted/varnished wood

Painted cinder block or concrete

Tile

Metal

Glass

Laminates

Smooth solid surfaces (most plastics, acrylic, pvc, PE, PP)

When Will Command Strips Fail to Hold Acoustic Panels?

Command strips will not effectively adhere to acoustic panels on rough and textured surfaces, including:

- Textured walls

- Wallpaper

- Brick

- Fabric

- Other rough or non-stick surfaces

Additionally, command strips will not hold acoustic panels in the following conditions:

- Highly humid environments, such as bathrooms or regions with consistent high humidity

- Temperatures exceeding 40°C

- When the weight of the acoustic panel exceeds 5 kg (10 lb) for 2 pairs of strips or 10 kg (20 lb) for 4 pairs of strips

- In outdoor areas

How to Use Command Strips to Install Acoustic Panels or Acoustic Foam?

1. Choose an Appropriate Surface  

Select a smooth surface suitable for command strips, such as painted walls, varnished wood, painted cinder block or concrete, tile, metal, glass, or laminate. If the surface has been freshly painted, wait at least 7 days before applying command strips.

2. Choose the Right Command Strip  

Weigh your acoustic panels and select a command strip or combination of strips that can support the required weight. Command strips come with various weight capacities, so ensure you choose a strong enough option or use multiple strips. When using multiple strips, ensure there's enough space on the back of the panel to accommodate them.

3. Clean the Surface  

Clean the wall or surface with rubbing alcohol. Apply some rubbing alcohol to a cloth and gently wipe the area where you'll place the command strips. Avoid using household cleaners or just water, as these may prevent the strip from adhering properly.

4. Prepare the Acoustic Panels  

Determine where you'll place the command strips. If your acoustic panels have mounting hardware or wire, you may need to attach the strips to these components instead of directly to the back of the panel. Once you've identified the correct placement, clean the area gently with rubbing alcohol.

5. Attach the Command Strips to the Panel  

Follow the instructions on the packaging to attach the command strips to the acoustic panel. Typically, this involves the following steps:  

- Separate the strips and click them together.  

- Remove one side of the liners.  

- Stick the strips onto the acoustic panels and press firmly.

6. Stick the Acoustic Panels to the Wall  

Remove the remaining strip liners and press the panel firmly against the wall.

7. Ensure the Adhesive Holds  

To verify the adhesive's grip on the wall:  

- Carefully peel the acoustic panel off the wall by lifting it from the bottom (think of it as hinging from the top, with the bottom detaching first).  

- Check that the strips remain attached to the wall. Press each strip firmly for 30 seconds to reinforce the bond.

8. Allow Adhesion Time  

Wait at least 1 hour for the adhesive to fully bond.

9. Test Secure Attachment  

Gently pull and tug on the panels to ensure they are securely attached to the wall. If they feel stable, you've successfully hung your acoustic panels using command strips.

10. Monitor for Changed Conditions  

Keep an eye on temperature and humidity levels. If temperatures exceed 40°C or humidity increases significantly, consider temporarily removing the acoustic panels until conditions stabilize.

What to Do When Command Strips Can't Hold Your Acoustic Panels  

If command strips aren't sufficient, consider replacing your acoustic panels with lighter ones or selecting panels with a different mounting mechanism. However, these alternatives may damage your walls.

Peel-and-stick acoustic panels are a great option, providing high Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) values for effective sound absorption and easy wall application.

Other installation methods include using traditional acoustic panels with hammer and nails, foam tack, or adhesive spray.