There's nothing more frustrating than hanging a picture, mirror or painting only to have it crash to the floor minutes later when the hook rips out of the wall. We put five picture hangers to the test to find out which ones are the easiest to install, offer the strongest hold and cause the least damage to the wall. We start with our favourite.
Cobra WallBiter
Features: Picture hooks with two pointy metal prongs to attach to the wall. Can hold up to 11 kilograms on drywall or 27 kg on wood surfaces.
Performance: With only a couple strong taps of a hammer, these heavy-duty brutes grip the wall with their pointy talons and don't let go. Solid and strong, they're ideal for large artwork and bulky mirrors.
Cost: $3.99 for three.
3M Command Strips
Features: Mini clear plastic hooks with adhesive strips that won't damage the wall surface. Can hold up to 225 grams.
Performance: These hooks work like magic: They stick snugly in place, but with a long tug on the foam tab, they release their grip, leaving no evidence they were ever there. Can't hold much weight, but good for small installations.
Cost: $5.99 for six hooks and eight adhesive strips at Michaels Arts and Crafts Store
OOK Professional Picture Hangers
Features: Hanging hardware with brass hook and square-head nail to secure to wall. Holds up to nine kilograms.
Performance: These two-piece hangers nudge out the Wall Dogs for third place because they're much easier to install, especially for novice DIYers who may find it difficult to hold the hanger in place with one hand and attach it to the wall with the other.
Cost: $3.99 for three sets at Michaels Arts and Crafts Store
Wall Dog by Anchor Wire
Features: Self-drilling picture hanger with brass screw and hook for drywall, wood, concrete and masonry. Holds up to 22 kilograms.
Performance: One of the strongest, these hangers are also the most versatile because they work on any wall surface. But they also leave the largest hole, so make sure you pick the right spot to hang your picture before drilling them in.
Cost: $2.57 for three sets.
-- Postmedia News
