Installing your Dog-G8 using our acrylic foam adhesive strips is a simple and secure option for suitable surfaces. However, achieving a strong, long-lasting bond depends heavily on preparing the surface correctly, applying firm pressure and allowing enough time for the adhesive to cure.
Follow the steps below to make sure your Dog-G8 mounting brackets are installed securely.
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Correct surface preparation is one of the most important parts of the installation process.
Before applying your brackets:
-
Clean the installation area thoroughly using an alcohol wipe and a clean, dry cloth.
-
Wipe the surface in one direction to remove any dust, dirt, grease or oil.
-
Allow the surface to dry completely before applying the brackets.
If the surface is not completely clean and dry, the adhesive may bond to dirt, grease or other contaminants rather than directly to the surface itself. This can significantly reduce the strength of the bond.
Step 2: Apply the Adhesive Brackets
Once the surface has been prepared:
-
Carefully remove the red or blue protective liner from the adhesive on the back of the bracket.
-
Avoid touching the exposed adhesive with your fingers, as oils from your skin can affect adhesion.
-
Position the bracket carefully onto the prepared surface.
-
Press the bracket firmly and evenly into place.
-
Use the palm of your hand or your thumb to apply strong, consistent pressure across the entire bracket and adhesive strip.
Good pressure is important because it helps the adhesive make full contact with the surface.
Once installed, the adhesive bond will continue to strengthen over the following 24–72 hours.
Step 3: Allow the Adhesive to Cure
After attaching the brackets, we recommend waiting at least 24 hours before mounting your Dog-G8 into them.
This gives the adhesive time to develop a strong initial bond before the weight and tension of the gate are applied.
Where possible, allowing additional curing time will help the adhesive reach its strongest bond.
What Surfaces Can Dog-G8 Adhesives Be Used On?
Our adhesive strips are designed to work well on smooth, non-porous surfaces such as:
-
uPVC and other suitable plastics
-
Glass
-
Metal
-
Composite surfaces
-
Some smooth painted surfaces
Adhesives are generally not suitable for porous, rough or unstable surfaces, including:
-
Brick
-
Cement
-
Stone
-
Plasterboard
-
Bare wood
-
Rough or uneven surfaces
For these surfaces, the Dog-G8 brackets should normally be screw-fixed into position using suitable fixings.
If you are unsure whether your surface is suitable for adhesives, please contact us before installation and we can advise you.
Troubleshooting: What If the Adhesive Will Not Stick?
If a bracket does not appear to be bonding correctly, first check the surface itself.
Consider:
-
Is the surface completely clean and dry?
-
Is there grease, polish, cleaning residue or dust present?
-
Is the surface smooth or porous?
-
Is the surface painted, varnished or coated?
-
Was the adhesive applied in very cold conditions?
-
Was enough pressure applied when installing the bracket?
Different surface finishes can behave differently, even when made from the same underlying material.
If the adhesive is not achieving a secure bond, do not continue using the gate under tension. Instead, contact us for advice or use an appropriate screw-fixed installation where suitable.
Temperature Tips
For the best results, apply the adhesive at normal room temperature.
Cold temperatures can make acrylic foam tape firmer and reduce its ability to form a strong initial bond with the surface.
Where possible, both the adhesive and installation surface should be allowed to reach room temperature before fitting.
Once correctly applied and fully bonded, acrylic foam adhesives are highly durable and capable of performing across a wide range of temperatures.
How to Remove Dog-G8 Adhesive Brackets
When installed correctly, the adhesive brackets are designed to form a very strong bond. When you eventually need to remove them, taking your time will help reduce the risk of damaging the surrounding surface.
Start by gently warming the adhesive and bracket using a hairdryer. The heat will help soften the adhesive slightly and make removal easier.
Next, carefully work a thin blade behind the bracket and slowly cut through the adhesive layer between the bracket and the surface.
Take extra care to avoid scratching or damaging the surface underneath.
Once the bracket has been removed, any remaining adhesive residue can normally be carefully cleaned from the surface.
If you would like to use your Dog-G8 in another location, you can either purchase additional mounting brackets or order replacement adhesive strips and reapply them to your existing brackets.
Final Installation Tips
For the strongest and most reliable installation, remember three things:
Clean. Press. Cure.
Prepare the surface thoroughly, apply firm and even pressure to the brackets, and allow the adhesive sufficient time to bond before installing your Dog-G8.
Taking a little extra time during installation will help ensure your gate is securely fitted and ready for everyday use.
Need additional brackets, adhesive strips or other accessories? Visit our Dog-G8 accessories collection.
If you are unsure whether adhesives are suitable for your particular surface, please contact the Dog-G8 team and we will be happy to help.
