4 Messages
Stronger adhesive for Entry Sensors
Long time SS customer. Just wanted to rant about the horrible, weak adhesive on 3M Command strips affixed to the back of the entry sensors. At just 1cm square, they can (and will) eventually fall off -- even though I had mine mounted to the smooth vinyl windows that I first cleaned with isopropyl alcohol.
The other day, while our running errands, one fell off and triggered the alarm. Luckily, I have mine set to a 2 minute delay before it calls the cops. I was able to cancel the triggered alarm via text message.
I immediately acquired a roll of 3M VHB (Very High Bond tape) for about $25, and replaced the weak Command strips on all 9 entry sensors with the VHB tape. While doing this, I discovered a few other sensors just hanging by a thread. Again, they were affixed to smooth, clean vinyl window frames.
This is probably a known issue (I don't frequent this community), but nevertheless, I just wanted to rant to let others know as well as suggest a better solution. Why Simplisafe uses such weak adhesive is beyond me. I wonder how many false alarms were triggered as a result.
Official Response
davey_d
Community Admin
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5.7K Messages
1 month ago
Hi @TD99 ,
Thanks so much for the feedback, and so sorry to hear about the false alarm!
We use Command Adhesives for our sensors because they offer strong hold for most situations, but still allows for removal with no damage - a great thing for renters and those who want the freedom to move their sensors around to different spots. Of course, we also include screws as an option for more permanent mounting.
And yes, there are other options in-between, like gluing the sensors in place, or using stronger adhesives like you suggest. For now, we leave that to you to make the right choice for your home and needs.
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dlpsr
1.2K Messages
1 month ago
I had one in 15 months that fell off a vinyl door. But the other 24ish are still stuck, some on vinyl windows.
I did use recommended procedure per 3M which for me was, clean area with rubbing alcohol, hold sensor and magnet each for 30 seconds while pressing down fairly hard when mounting. PITA that it is.
I also bought a $10 roll of 3M foam VHB tape, and I cut to size as I need. I did use that on the sensor that fell off and my other brand replacement sensors.
And have tape in reserve. It holds 3 times the weight as SS 3M sticky. Probably damages something when I tear them off down the road. On me.
I don't have police type monitoring, just self with cameras, so false alarms don't produce any fines or police officers or firemen giving me dirty looks. Just dirty looks from her.😁
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