How to install an aluminum photo board?

Identifying the hanging system received

The device provided may vary depending on the size and production partner. Before any installation, examine the back of the artwork and check the contents of the fastener bag.

Two main solutions may accompany your artwork:

• the magnetic kit, with magnets on the back of the artwork and metal discs to be fixed to the wall;
• the self-adhesive hanger, consisting of one or more plates or hooks with double-sided adhesive, accompanied by foam pads that keep the artwork straight and parallel to the wall.

Essential point for the self-adhesive hanger: use and stick all supplied hangers and all pads. Their number depends on the size and contributes to proper weight distribution. Do not hang the artwork with a single hanger if the kit contains several.

The illustrated instructions below concern the magnetic kit. For a self-adhesive hanger, also follow the instructions specific to the device received.

Contents of the magnetic kit

In your fastener bag, you will find:

• magnets already glued to the back of the artwork;
• metal discs to be fixed to the wall (one per magnet);
• suitable screws;
• wall plugs for solid walls;
• washers for a secure hold of the discs on the wall.

The number of attachment points varies depending on the size of the artwork (generally 2 magnets for small sizes, 3 or 4 magnets for larger sizes).

Before drilling: prepare your wall

1. Choose the location and height

Before getting out the drill, take the time to choose the ideal location:

• In a living room, place the center of the image approximately 1.55 to 1.65 m (5 to 5.4 ft) from the floor (eye level).
• Above a sofa or bed, keep 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 inches) between the top of the backrest and the bottom of the artwork.

This allows for a pleasant visual balance and highlights the mountain landscape without overwhelming your furniture.

2. Check the wall type

Depending on the nature of the wall, the supplied wall plugs will be more or less suitable:

• Solid wall (concrete, brick, stone): the supplied wall plugs are generally suitable.
• Plasterboard / BA13 partition: for large sizes, plan for special plasterboard wall plugs.
• Wooden wall: it is often possible to screw directly, without a wall plug, if the support is thick enough.

If in doubt about the solidity of the support, do not hesitate to use reinforced wall plugs suitable for your wall.

3. Check the kit contents

Make sure you have all the elements of the magnetic kit (magnets on the back of the artwork, metal discs, screws, wall plugs, and washers) as well as the necessary tools:

• a drill with a 6 mm (1/4 inch) drill bit;
• a screwdriver (ideally Phillips head);
• a spirit level;
• a pencil for marking.

Tutorial: hanging an aluminum print with the magnetic kit

Step 1: Mark the artwork's position

1. Place the artwork against the wall in the desired location.
2. Use a spirit level to ensure it is perfectly horizontal.
3. Mark with a pencil:
   • the top of the artwork;
   • the approximate position of each magnet (you can feel their location by gently sliding your hand across the back of the artwork).
4. Remove the artwork: you will now work on these marks.

Step 2: Mark the locations of the magnetic supports

1. Position a metal disc on the wall, at each mark corresponding to a magnet.
2. Make sure the assembly is well aligned (horizontally, and possibly vertically if installing multiple artworks).
3. Mark the center of each disc with a pencil: this is where you will drill.

Step 3: Drill the wall and insert the wall plugs

1. Drill a hole at each mark with your 6 mm (1/4 inch) drill bit.
2. Hold the drill strictly perpendicular to the wall so that the supports lie perfectly flat.
3. Insert a wall plug into each hole until it is flush with the wall.

Step 4: Screw in the metal discs

1. Place a washer on each screw.
2. Position a metal disc over each wall plug, well centered.
3. Screw firmly with the screwdriver until the disc is tightly pressed against the wall, with no play.

Step 5: Hang the artwork with the magnetic kit

1. Gently bring the artwork closer to the wall: the magnets on the back will naturally attach to the screwed discs.
2. Release the artwork, then slide it slightly to precisely adjust the horizontal alignment.
3. Step back and check the alignment relative to furniture, the ceiling, and other artworks.

When the artwork is equipped with the magnetic system, you can easily reposition your artwork if you want to shift it or slightly modify your wall composition.

Option 2: installing the self-adhesive hanger

This solution uses one or more hanging plates to be glued to the back of the artwork with double-sided adhesive. Foam pads are placed on the bottom part to stabilize the artwork and keep it parallel to the wall.

1. Prepare the artwork

1. Place the artwork print side down on a perfectly clean, flat, and soft surface.
2. Gently clean the areas on the back that will receive the hangers and pads, then let them dry completely.
3. Identify all supplied parts before removing the protective films from the adhesive.

2. Position all hangers

1. Present the hanging plates on the upper part of the artwork, observing the direction indicated on the parts or in the instructions.
2. When multiple hangers are provided, distribute them symmetrically and at the same distance from the top edge so that the weight is supported evenly.
3. Always use the total number of hangers supplied with the artwork. This number is adapted to the size: no part should be left unused.

3. Glue the hangers and pads

1. Remove the protective film from a first hanger without touching the adhesive surface.
2. Apply it to the intended location and exert firm, uniform pressure.
3. Repeat the operation for each hanger provided.
4. Then glue all foam pads to the lower part of the artwork, distributing them evenly.
5. Respect the setting time indicated in the instructions before hanging the artwork.

4. Prepare the wall mounting

1. Choose a screw, hook, or fastener suitable for the weight of the artwork and the nature of the wall.
2. Mark the height, check the horizontal with a spirit level, then install the wall mounting.
3. Hang the artwork by the self-adhesive hangers, without pulling the plates sideways.
4. Check that the pads rest correctly against the wall and that the artwork remains stable and straight.

Important: self-adhesive hangers are attached to the back of the artwork; their adhesive does not replace wall mounting. If in doubt about the number of parts, their location, or the type of wall, contact AluArtMountains with a photo of the kit and the back of the artwork before installation.

Protective film & artwork care

Your artwork may come with a protective film on the printed side. Remember to remove it once the installation is complete to reveal all the finesse of the image and the matte finish of the Alu Dibond.

For maintenance, a simple soft, dry cloth is sufficient. Avoid abrasive sponges and harsh chemicals: they are not necessary and could damage the surface.

Alu Dibond is a rigid and durable medium: your mountain photo print will remain clear and vibrant for many years if handled with care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I hang my artwork on plasterboard?

Yes, it is possible. For large sizes or somewhat fragile partitions, we recommend using good quality special plasterboard wall plugs, available in DIY stores.

Do I need to use all the self-adhesive hangers I received?

Yes. The number of hangers and pads provided depends on the size of the artwork. Install all parts present in the kit to properly distribute the weight and keep the artwork stable. Do not intentionally reduce the number of hanging points.

Can I easily move my artwork?

With the magnetic system, the artwork is designed to be reversible. Simply gently detach the artwork from the wall, then reposition it on the same supports or, if necessary, after moving the metal discs.

What if I have doubts about the installation?

If a step seems uncertain, do not hesitate to ask for help from someone equipped or contact us with a photo of your wall and the back of the artwork. We will guide you to safely enjoy your aluminum photo print.

And now, time to decorate!

Your aluminum mountain photo print is now installed. To complete your wall, also discover:

• Our other Alu Dibond photo prints
• The most beautiful images of the Alps
• All about Alu Dibond photo prints