Installing a Ring Doorbell without screws is easier than you think. This guide walks you through adhesive mounts, no-drill brackets, and secure placement—perfect for renters or anyone avoiding wall damage. Get your doorbell up and running in under 30 minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring No-Drill Mount: Designed specifically for screw-free installation, this accessory uses strong adhesive to hold your Ring Doorbell securely.
- Clean the surface thoroughly: For best adhesion, wipe the mounting area with rubbing alcohol to remove dust, grease, and moisture.
- Choose the right location: Install at chest height, within Wi-Fi range, and angled slightly toward the walkway for optimal motion detection.
- Test before final placement: Use temporary tape to hold the doorbell in place for 24 hours to ensure it stays put and captures the right view.
- Reinforce with extra adhesive: For extra security, use heavy-duty double-sided tape or VHB tape alongside the included mount.
- Check local rental rules: Many landlords allow adhesive-mounted devices, but confirm before installing to avoid lease violations.
- Maintain and reposition as needed: Adhesive mounts can be removed and reused with care, making them ideal for temporary or flexible setups.
How to Put Up a Ring Doorbell Without Screws
So you’ve got your shiny new Ring Doorbell—maybe the Ring Video Doorbell 3, 4, or the Ring Doorbell Pro—and you’re ready to boost your home security. But there’s just one problem: you don’t want to drill holes in your wall. Maybe you’re renting, or you’re just not a fan of permanent changes. The good news? You can absolutely install a Ring Doorbell without screws.
In this complete guide, we’ll show you how to put up a Ring Doorbell without screws using safe, effective, and renter-friendly methods. Whether you’re using the official Ring No-Drill Mount or a third-party adhesive solution, we’ll walk you through every step—from choosing the right tools to troubleshooting common issues. By the end, your doorbell will be securely mounted, fully functional, and ready to alert you to visitors, packages, and unexpected guests.
Let’s get started!
Why Go Screw-Free?
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s talk about why you might want to avoid screws in the first place.
Many people assume that mounting a doorbell requires drilling into brick, wood, or siding—but that’s not always true. Screw-free installation offers several advantages:
- Perfect for renters: Most landlords don’t allow tenants to drill into walls. Adhesive mounts let you install a doorbell without violating your lease.
- No damage to surfaces: Whether you have delicate siding, historic brick, or painted wood, adhesive mounts leave no holes or scars.
- Quick and easy setup: You can install your doorbell in under 30 minutes—no power tools or measuring required.
- Flexibility: Want to move your doorbell to a different location? Adhesive mounts make repositioning simple.
- Clean, modern look: Without visible screws, your doorbell looks sleek and integrated into your entryway.
Of course, screw-free mounting isn’t perfect for every situation. If you live in an area with extreme weather, high winds, or frequent vibrations (like near a busy street), you may need extra reinforcement. But for most homes and apartments, adhesive mounting is a safe, reliable option.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these supplies. Most are included with your Ring Doorbell, but a few extras can make the process smoother.
Included with Your Ring Doorbell
- Ring Video Doorbell (any model)
- Ring No-Drill Mount (if purchased separately or included)
- Adhesive strip (usually 3M VHB tape)
- Charging cable (for battery-powered models)
- User manual and setup guide
Optional but Helpful Tools
- Rubbing alcohol and a clean cloth
- Measuring tape
- Pencil or painter’s tape (for marking)
- Level (to ensure straight mounting)
- Hairdryer or heat gun (for cold weather installation)
- Extra heavy-duty double-sided tape (e.g., 3M VHB or Command Outdoor Mounts)
- Microfiber cloth
What Not to Use
Avoid regular duct tape, masking tape, or low-quality adhesives. These won’t hold up over time, especially in rain, snow, or direct sunlight. Stick to industrial-grade adhesives designed for outdoor use.
Step 1: Choose the Right Mounting Method
Not all screw-free mounts are created equal. Ring offers an official No-Drill Mount, but there are also third-party options. Let’s compare your choices.
Option 1: Ring No-Drill Mount (Recommended)
This is the easiest and most reliable way to install your Ring Doorbell without screws. The mount comes with a strong adhesive backing and is designed specifically for Ring devices.
Pros:
- Officially supported by Ring
- Weather-resistant adhesive
- Easy to install and remove
- Compatible with most Ring models
Cons:
- Must be purchased separately (not included with all Ring models)
- Adhesive may weaken in extreme heat or cold
Option 2: Third-Party Adhesive Brackets
Companies like Command, Jelly Belly, and others sell adhesive brackets that can work with Ring Doorbells. These often come with hooks, clips, or custom-cut mounts.
Pros:
- Widely available at hardware and retail stores
- Often cheaper than Ring’s official mount
- Some offer repositionable options
Cons:
- May not fit perfectly
- Adhesive strength varies
- Not officially supported by Ring
Option 3: DIY Adhesive Mounting
If you’re handy, you can create your own mount using heavy-duty double-sided tape and a small plastic or metal bracket. This is best for temporary setups or unique surfaces.
Pros:
- Fully customizable
- Uses materials you may already have
Cons:
- Risk of improper fit or weak adhesion
- May void warranty if not done carefully
Our Recommendation: Go with the Ring No-Drill Mount if possible. It’s designed for your device, tested for durability, and offers the best balance of ease and reliability.
Step 2: Prepare the Mounting Surface
A strong bond starts with a clean surface. Even the best adhesive won’t stick to dirt, grease, or moisture.
Clean the Area
1. Use a clean cloth and rubbing alcohol to wipe down the spot where you plan to mount the doorbell.
2. Focus on removing dust, fingerprints, and any residue from previous tape or stickers.
3. Let the area dry completely—this is crucial. Any moisture can weaken the adhesive.
Check the Surface Type
Adhesive works best on smooth, non-porous surfaces like:
- Painted wood
- Vinyl siding
- Metal
- Smooth brick or stucco
Avoid rough, porous, or uneven surfaces like:
- Unfinished brick
- Textured stucco
- Weathered wood
- Peeling paint
If your surface is rough, consider using a small piece of smooth plastic or metal as a backing plate. Attach the adhesive to the plate, then secure the plate to the wall with additional tape or brackets.
Test the Temperature
Adhesive works best when applied in temperatures between 50°F and 80°F (10°C to 27°C). If it’s too cold, the adhesive won’t bond properly. If it’s too hot, it may become too soft.
Tip: On cold days, use a hairdryer to warm the surface slightly before applying the mount. Don’t overheat—just enough to take the chill off.
Step 3: Plan the Ideal Location
Where you place your doorbell affects both security and functionality. Here’s how to choose the perfect spot.
Height Matters
Install your doorbell at chest height—about 48 to 52 inches from the ground. This ensures:
- Clear view of visitors’ faces
- Reduced risk of tampering or theft
- Better motion detection coverage
Angle Toward the Walkway
Tilt the doorbell slightly downward so it points at your front walkway or driveway. This improves motion detection and reduces false alerts from passing cars or trees.
Stay Within Wi-Fi Range
Your doorbell needs a strong Wi-Fi signal to stream video and send alerts. Test your signal strength using the Ring app before mounting.
How to test:
1. Open the Ring app.
2. Go to Device Health.
3. Check the Signal Strength indicator.
4. If it’s weak, consider moving your router or using a Wi-Fi extender.
Avoid Obstructions
Keep the doorbell away from:
- Overhangs or awnings that block the view
- Bright lights or direct sunlight (can cause glare)
- Thick walls or metal surfaces that interfere with Wi-Fi
Use Temporary Tape for Testing
Before committing, use painter’s tape or removable mounting putty to hold the doorbell in place for 24 hours. Check:
- Does it stay secure?
- Is the view clear?
- Are motion alerts accurate?
If everything looks good, proceed to permanent mounting.
Step 4: Install the Ring No-Drill Mount
Now for the main event—mounting your doorbell without screws.
Step 1: Remove the Backing from the Adhesive
1. Take the Ring No-Drill Mount out of the packaging.
2. Peel off the protective liner from the adhesive strip on the back.
3. Be careful not to touch the sticky side—oils from your fingers can reduce adhesion.
Step 2: Position the Mount
1. Hold the mount against the wall at your chosen height and angle.
2. Use a level to make sure it’s straight.
3. Press firmly for 30 seconds to ensure good contact.
Pro Tip: Have a friend help you hold the mount while you check the alignment. It’s hard to do alone!
Step 3: Apply Firm Pressure
After positioning, press down hard on the mount for at least 30 seconds. Focus on the center and edges to activate the adhesive.
Why this matters: The adhesive needs time and pressure to bond properly. Skipping this step is a common cause of mounts falling off.
Step 4: Wait Before Attaching the Doorbell
Let the adhesive cure for at least 24 hours before attaching your Ring Doorbell. This gives the bond time to fully set.
Note: In cold or humid conditions, wait 48 hours for maximum strength.
Step 5: Attach Your Ring Doorbell
Once the mount is secure, it’s time to install the doorbell.
For Battery-Powered Models (Ring Doorbell, Doorbell 3, 4, etc.)
1. Charge the battery fully using the included cable.
2. Slide the battery into the doorbell.
3. Align the doorbell with the mount’s hooks.
4. Push down gently until it clicks into place.
For Wired Models (Ring Doorbell Pro, Pro 2)
1. Turn off power to your existing doorbell at the breaker.
2. Remove the old doorbell.
3. Connect the wires to the Ring Pro’s terminals (usually red to red, white to white).
4. Attach the doorbell to the No-Drill Mount.
5. Restore power and test.
Important: Even wired models can use the No-Drill Mount. The adhesive holds the mount, and the doorbell clips onto it—no screws needed.
Secure with the Security Screw (Optional)
Most Ring Doorbells come with a small security screw to prevent theft. You can install it using the included tool, even on adhesive mounts. It adds an extra layer of protection.
Step 6: Set Up and Test in the Ring App
Your doorbell is mounted—now let’s make sure it works.
Download the Ring App
If you haven’t already, download the Ring app (available on iOS and Android).
Create or Log In to Your Account
Follow the prompts to set up your device. The app will guide you through:
- Connecting to Wi-Fi
- Calibrating motion zones
- Setting up alerts
- Testing the camera and microphone
Check Live View
Open the Live View feature to see what your doorbell sees. Adjust the angle if needed by loosening the mount slightly and repositioning.
Test Motion and Alerts
Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion detection. Make sure you receive a notification on your phone.
Adjust Settings
Customize:
- Motion sensitivity
- Alert schedules
- Privacy zones
- Chime settings (if using a Ring Chime)
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful installation, problems can happen. Here’s how to fix the most common ones.
The Mount Keeps Falling Off
Possible causes:
- Surface wasn’t clean
- Adhesive applied in cold weather
- Too much weight or vibration
Solutions:
- Remove the mount, clean the surface, and reapply.
- Use a hairdryer to warm the adhesive before sticking.
- Add extra adhesive strips or use a reinforced mount.
Poor Wi-Fi Signal
Possible causes:
- Doorbell is too far from the router
- Thick walls or metal interference
Solutions:
- Move your router closer.
- Install a Wi-Fi extender.
- Use a wired doorbell with a stronger connection.
Blurry or Glared Video
Possible causes:
- Direct sunlight on the lens
- Dirty camera lens
Solutions:
- Reposition the doorbell to avoid sun glare.
- Clean the lens with a microfiber cloth.
- Use a Ring Doorbell with a built-in sun shield.
Battery Drains Too Fast
Possible causes:
- Too many motion alerts
- Cold weather reducing battery life
Solutions:
- Adjust motion zones to reduce false alerts.
- Charge the battery more frequently in winter.
- Consider a solar charger accessory.
Maintenance and Care
To keep your screw-free doorbell working well, follow these maintenance tips.
Clean the Lens Monthly
Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the camera lens. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Check the Adhesive Every 6 Months
Inspect the mount for signs of loosening. If it feels wobbly, reinforce it with extra tape.
Update the App and Firmware
Ring regularly releases updates that improve performance and security. Enable automatic updates in the app.
Remove and Reuse (If Needed)
To remove the No-Drill Mount:
1. Use a hairdryer to warm the adhesive for 30–60 seconds.
2. Gently pull the mount away from the wall.
3. Clean any residue with rubbing alcohol.
You can reuse the mount on a new surface if the adhesive is still sticky.
Final Thoughts
Putting up a Ring Doorbell without screws is not only possible—it’s often the best choice for renters, temporary setups, or anyone who wants a clean, damage-free installation. With the right tools, a little preparation, and attention to detail, you can have a secure, functional doorbell up and running in under an hour.
Remember: clean the surface, choose the right location, use the Ring No-Drill Mount, and give the adhesive time to cure. Test everything before finalizing, and don’t hesitate to reinforce with extra tape if needed.
Your home security shouldn’t require drilling holes or breaking the lease. With this guide, you’ve got a smarter, simpler way to stay connected and protected—no screws required.