How to Hang Foam Board Signs From a Wall

Foam board is a great material for signage. It is easily cut and shaped and takes water-based paints well. It is also very light, making it ideal for hanging from almost any surface. When hanging anything from a wall, it is best to locate the wall studs and attach any fasteners directly to the stud. Hanging foam board signs is no exception. Attaching directly to the stud is the best way to ensure minimal damage to the wall. An electronic stud finder can help to do the job correctly.

Things You'll Need

• Foam board sign
• Stud finder
• Drill and screws enough to hang the sign securely
• Level
• Painter's caulk
• Touch up paint

Instructions

Hanging the sign

1. Decide exactly where the sign will hang. Use an electronic stud finder to locate the stud. Run the finder over the wall to establish what is open space and what is framing. Stud finders vary in operation. Typically the stud finder will beep and light up when a stud is found. There should be a stud every 16 inches in every house built in the last 30 years or so. Mark several studs to establish a pattern.

2. Place the sign against the wall in position and have someone visually check to be sure the location and tilt of the sign are correct. Use a level to adjust the tilt, if needed. Once the sign is positioned correctly, mark a few spots around the perimeter of the sign. This will ensure you can accurately reposition it if it moves off target. Mark the sign in at least two places in line with the wall studs. These are the points you will install your screws.

3. For permanent installation, use a caulking gun to run a bead of latex painter's caulk ¼ inch thick around the outside edge of the back of the sign, approximately one inch in from the edge. Press the sign into place, shifting it slightly side to side to set the adhesive. Continue to hold the sign in place while screws are driven. If the sign is temporary, use the screws without the caulk; it will hold indefinitely and do less damage to the wall surface.

4. Use a drill and drywall screws ¾ inch longer than the thickness of the sign to screw the sign to the wall. Make sure the screws pierce the sign in the points marked in the previous step. Run the screws all the way to the surface. Gently sink the screw just slightly into the foam. Use at least two screws to keep the sign from tipping. If the sign is large enough, drive screws into at least two studs. For temporary install, use additional screws to ensure the sign stays up.

5. Use painter's caulk to fill in over the screw heads. Smooth the caulk over with a dampened finger. Allow the caulk to dry thoroughly before applying a coat of paint to touch up the caulked spots.

References

• Cutting Foam Board
• Painters Caulk