Can You Use Command Hooks For Hanging Christmas Lights On Brick Walls

Hanging Christmas lights is one of the most joyful parts of holiday decorating. But when it comes to exterior brick walls, many homeowners hesitate—especially when considering damage-free solutions like Command hooks. Brick is durable, but it’s also porous and textured, which raises concerns about adhesion, weight capacity, and long-term safety. So, can you actually use Command hooks for hanging Christmas lights on brick walls? The short answer is: sometimes—but with important caveats.

While Command hooks are marketed as a damage-free solution for indoor and outdoor use, their performance on brick depends heavily on surface condition, hook type, light weight, and weather exposure. This article dives deep into the realities of using Command hooks on brick, offering tested strategies, real-world examples, and safer alternatives so you can decorate confidently without risking your home’s integrity.

Understanding Command Hooks and Their Limitations on Brick

Command hooks rely on adhesive strips—typically 3M VHB (Very High Bond) technology—to stick securely to surfaces. They’re designed to bond best with smooth, clean, non-porous materials like painted drywall, glass, tile, or finished wood. Brick, by contrast, is rough, uneven, and often slightly damp due to its porous nature. These characteristics make it difficult for standard adhesive strips to form a uniform bond.

Not all Command hooks are created equal. Some are labeled “Outdoor” and are rated for temperature extremes, moisture resistance, and UV protection. Even these, however, were not engineered for highly textured masonry. When applied to brick, the adhesive may only make contact with the high points of the surface, leaving gaps that reduce holding power and increase the risk of premature failure.

Additionally, most small to medium Command hooks have weight limits between 0.5 and 4 pounds. While a single string of LED Christmas lights typically weighs under 1 pound, multiple strands, icicle effects, or older incandescent sets can exceed this threshold—especially when factoring in wind load and snow accumulation.

Tip: Only use Outdoor-rated Command hooks with a clear \"brick-safe\" label if available. Avoid indoor variants—they degrade faster in weather.

When Command Hooks Might Work—And When They Won’t

There are specific conditions under which Command hooks can succeed on brick. Success hinges on three factors: preparation, product selection, and environmental control.

Situations where Command hooks may work:

• You're hanging lightweight LED mini lights (under 1 lb per 50–100 feet).
• The brick surface is relatively smooth, previously painted, or sealed.
• You're installing in a sheltered area (e.g., under an eave or porch overhang).
• You're using heavy-duty outdoor Command hooks rated for 3–4 lbs each.
• You're willing to monitor and reattach hooks during the season.

Situations where Command hooks will likely fail:

• The brick is dusty, crumbling, or efflorescing (white mineral deposits).
• You're using thick C9 bulbs or commercial-grade light strings.
• The wall is exposed to direct rain, snow, or strong winds.
• The temperature fluctuates widely (below freezing at night, above 40°F during day).
• You plan to leave the lights up for months without inspection.

“Adhesives struggle with micro-textures. On brick, even 'flat' areas have peaks and valleys that compromise bond strength.” — Dr. Alan Reyes, Materials Scientist, Building Adhesives Lab

Step-by-Step Guide: Installing Christmas Lights on Brick Using Command Hooks (Safely)

If you decide to proceed with Command hooks, follow this detailed process to maximize success:

1. Choose the right hook: Select Outdoor Large Hook or Jumbo Hook models rated for at least 3 lbs. Avoid small hooks or those labeled for indoor use only.
2. Clean the brick surface: Use a wire brush to remove loose debris, then wipe the spot with isopropyl alcohol. Let dry completely—overnight if possible.
3. Select attachment points: Pick flat mortar joints or smoother bricks. Avoid cracked or spalling areas. Space hooks every 12–18 inches depending on light density.
4. Prepare the adhesive: Remove the liner from the hook’s strip, but don’t touch the sticky side. Press firmly onto the brick with even pressure for 30 seconds.
5. Wait before loading: Let the adhesive cure for at least 1 hour (ideally 24 hours) before hanging any lights. Temperature should be above 50°F during application.
6. Hang lights gently: Drape the string over the hook—do not pull or stretch. Use zip ties or twist ties to secure the wire to the hook base if needed.
7. Inspect weekly: Check each hook after storms or major temperature shifts. Reapply if any show signs of lifting.

This method increases the odds of temporary success but does not guarantee it. Always have backup fasteners on hand.

Do’s and Don’ts: A Quick Reference Table

Do’s	Don’ts
Use outdoor-rated Command hooks with high weight ratings	Use indoor Command strips on exterior brick
Clean and dry the brick thoroughly before application	Apply hooks to wet, dusty, or crumbling surfaces
Install in sheltered areas away from direct water exposure	Mount lights in open, wind-exposed zones
Check all hooks weekly during the season	Assume the hooks will last the entire season without inspection
Use lightweight LED strings to minimize load	Hang heavy-duty or vintage bulb strings on adhesive hooks

Better Alternatives to Command Hooks for Brick Walls

For more reliable, longer-lasting results, consider these proven alternatives:

• Brick Clips (Specialty Hardware): These are metal or plastic clips that slide into the mortar joint without drilling. Brands like LumaLanes or Gorilla Grips grip tightly and support multiple strings. They’re reusable and nearly invisible.
• Tapcon Screws with Plastic Anchors: For permanent or semi-permanent installations, use masonry screws in drilled pilot holes. Attach small eye hooks or clips, then hang lights. Seal screw heads with silicone to prevent water intrusion.
• Magnetic Hooks (on Steel Surfaces): If your brick facade has steel lintels or frames, magnetic hangers can hold lights without adhesives or drilling.
• Fishing Line Suspension: Tie clear fishing line between secured points (e.g., gutter brackets, window frames) and drape lights along the line. Keeps weight off the brick entirely.

Among professionals, brick clips are increasingly favored. They require no tools, cause no damage, and handle typical holiday light loads with ease. Unlike Command hooks, they aren’t affected by cold temperatures or moisture.

Tip: Store brick clips in labeled bags after the holidays—they’ll save you time next year.

Real Example: A Homeowner’s Experience with Command Hooks on Brick

Sarah M., a homeowner in Pittsburgh, PA, attempted to hang her 200-bulb LED curtain lights on her front brick porch using large outdoor Command hooks. She followed the instructions carefully: cleaned the surface with alcohol, waited 24 hours before hanging, and spaced hooks every 15 inches.

Initially, the setup looked perfect. But two weeks into December, after a freeze-thaw cycle and a snowstorm, three of the eight hooks detached overnight. One strand fell across the walkway, creating a tripping hazard. Sarah replaced the failed hooks with LumaLanes brick clips, which held securely for the remainder of the season.

“I thought I was being cautious,” she said. “But I didn’t account for how much temperature swings affect adhesives. Next year, I’m skipping the Command hooks entirely.”

Her experience reflects a common pattern: initial success followed by unexpected failure due to environmental stress. It underscores the importance of choosing methods designed for masonry, not repurposed indoor solutions.

Expert Checklist: Hanging Lights on Brick Safely

Before you begin decorating, run through this checklist to ensure safety and durability:

• ✅ Confirm the total weight of your light strings
• ✅ Inspect brick and mortar for cracks or deterioration
• ✅ Choose fasteners rated for outdoor masonry use
• ✅ Avoid piercing electrical wires when drilling
• ✅ Use a GFCI-protected outlet for outdoor power
• ✅ Plan for easy removal and storage after the holidays
• ✅ Consider future seasons—will you reuse this setup?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Command hooks damage brick when removed?

Generally, no—if they come off cleanly. However, if the adhesive bonds strongly to the brick surface, pulling them off might chip loose mortar or pull tiny fragments of brick face. Painted brick is especially vulnerable. Residue may also remain, requiring gentle cleaning.

Are there Command hooks made specifically for brick?

No. As of now, 3M does not manufacture a Command hook formulated exclusively for brick. Their outdoor line is designed for smooth surfaces like siding, trim, and windows. Claims of “works on brick” are based on user experimentation, not manufacturer testing.

How can I hang lights without any hooks at all?

Yes—consider running lights along existing architectural features. For example, tuck them behind downspouts, weave through iron railings, or rest them on top of a roofline. You can also use removable tape (like painter’s tape) on adjacent surfaces, but never rely on tape alone for overhead strings.

Final Thoughts: Prioritize Safety and Longevity

While the idea of using Command hooks on brick walls is appealing—quick, damage-free, and simple—the reality is that they’re not the most reliable option. Holiday lighting needs to withstand wind, moisture, and temperature changes, and adhesive hooks often fall short in these conditions.

Your home’s exterior deserves thoughtful care, especially during seasonal decor. Choosing the right hanging method isn’t just about convenience—it’s about protecting your property, ensuring electrical safety, and avoiding mid-season failures that lead to frustration or hazards.

For occasional, lightweight displays in protected areas, outdoor Command hooks may suffice with careful prep and monitoring. But for consistent, worry-free results—especially on older or textured brick—invest in purpose-built solutions like brick clips or masonry anchors. They cost slightly more upfront but save time, effort, and potential damage in the long run.

💬 Have you tried Command hooks on brick? Share your story in the comments—your experience could help others avoid costly mistakes this holiday season.