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Attaching your Arlo camera to your house in 2026 is faster and easier than ever, thanks to improved magnetic mounts and no-drill installation options. Use the included adhesive-backed mount or secure it with weather-resistant screws for a reliable, long-lasting setup—perfect for renters and homeowners alike.
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How to Attach Arlo Camera to House in 2026 Easy Guide
Key Takeaways
- Choose optimal locations: Prioritize entry points and high-activity zones for best coverage.
- Use included mounting hardware: Secure cameras with provided screws and brackets for stability.
- Ensure Wi-Fi signal strength: Test connectivity before finalizing camera placement.
- Angle for clear sightlines: Adjust tilt and rotation to avoid obstructions and glare.
- Weatherproof outdoor setups: Seal connections and use outdoor-rated mounts for durability.
- Follow app-guided setup: Use Arlo’s app for real-time positioning and calibration.
Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem
You’ve got an Arlo camera—maybe the Arlo Pro 5, Ultra 2, or even the newer Arlo Essential—and you’re ready to boost your home security. But now you’re staring at the mounting kit, a drill, and your house, wondering: How do I actually attach this thing without it falling off or looking like a DIY disaster?
Trust me, I’ve been there. I once tried to install an Arlo on my vinyl siding with a flimsy adhesive strip. Two days later, it was dangling by the wire like a sad piñata. That’s why I’m writing this how to attach Arlo camera to house in 2026 easy guide—to help you avoid rookie mistakes and get it right the first time.
Whether you’re protecting your front porch, backyard, or garage, a secure mount means reliable coverage, fewer false alerts, and peace of mind. And in 2026, with smarter cameras and better mounting options, it’s easier than ever—if you know the right steps.
This guide covers everything: from choosing the perfect spot to weatherproofing and avoiding common pitfalls. No fluff, just real, tested advice—like I’m explaining it to a friend over coffee.
What You Need
Before you grab your drill, let’s make sure you’ve got the right gear. Here’s what you’ll need for a solid, long-lasting install of your Arlo camera.
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- Arlo camera and mounting kit (usually included—check the box for screws, anchors, and the magnetic or swivel mount)
- Drill with a 1/8-inch or 3/16-inch drill bit (size depends on your wall material)
- Screwdriver (Phillips head—some kits include a tiny one, but your regular one works better)
- Measuring tape or ruler (to space cameras evenly and avoid awkward angles)
- Level (a $5 tool from any hardware store—don’t skip this!)
- Pencil or marker (for marking drill points)
- Stud finder (optional)—great for wood or drywall if you want extra security
- Weatherproof silicone sealant (optional but recommended)—especially for outdoor installs
- Ladder (if mounting high)—safety first!
Pro insight: If you’re mounting on brick, stucco, or concrete, you’ll need masonry drill bits and plastic anchors (not the standard drywall ones). I learned this the hard way when my first brick install stripped the screw holes. Now I always check the surface type before drilling.
Step-by-Step Guide to How to Attach Arlo Camera to House in 2026 Easy Guide
Step 1: Choose the Right Spot
Not every corner of your house needs a camera. The goal is strategic coverage, not blind spots. Think like a burglar: where would someone sneak in?
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- Front door: The #1 entry point. Mount the camera 7–8 feet high, angled slightly downward.
- Back door and garage: Often overlooked but high-risk zones.
- Side yard or driveway: Great for catching package theft or suspicious activity.
- Windows: Avoid pointing directly at them—glare and false motion alerts are a nightmare.
Use the Arlo app to test the field of view. Most Arlo models have a 130°–180° field of view. Hold your phone up where you plan to mount and use the app’s preview mode to see what’s covered.
Also, consider Wi-Fi signal strength. If your camera drops offline, it’s not doing its job. Walk to the spot with your phone and check the signal bars. If it’s weak, consider a Wi-Fi extender or a wired Arlo model (like the Arlo Wired Floodlight).
Step 2: Check the Mount Type and Prepare the Surface
Arlo cameras use different mounts depending on the model:
- Magnetic mount: Great for easy repositioning (e.g., Arlo Pro 4/5). But it’s less secure in windy areas.
- Swivel mount: Offers more adjustability and a tighter fit (e.g., Arlo Ultra 2). Better for permanent installs.
Now, prep the surface:
- Vinyl or aluminum siding: Clean with a damp cloth. Avoid adhesive strips—they fail in heat or cold. Use screws into the siding or a wooden backing board.
- Brick or stucco: Use a masonry bit and plastic anchors. Don’t drill into mortar—it’s weaker than the brick itself.
- Wood or drywall: Easiest. Use the included screws. If in drywall, use anchors for extra hold.
Warning: Never drill into electrical wires or plumbing. If you’re unsure, use a stud finder with a wire detection mode. I once hit a live wire behind a wall—sparks, a blown fuse, and a very embarrassed me. Learn from my mistake.
Step 3: Mark and Drill the Holes
Hold the mount (without the camera) against the wall where you want it. Use a pencil to mark the screw holes.
Now, use your level to make sure the mount is perfectly straight. A crooked camera looks unprofessional and can misalign your field of view.
Drill pilot holes:
- Wood/drywall: 1/8-inch bit, 1 inch deep.
- Brick/stucco: 3/16-inch masonry bit, 1.5 inches deep.
Insert the anchors (if needed) and gently tap them flush with the wall using a hammer. This ensures the screws have a solid grip.
Step 4: Attach the Mount to the Wall
Line up the mount with the holes and screw it in. Don’t overtighten—this can crack plastic mounts or strip the anchors.
For magnetic mounts, make sure the base is fully secured. The magnet is strong, but a loose base means the whole thing can wobble or fall.
For swivel mounts, tighten the screws just enough to hold, then adjust the angle. You’ll fine-tune this after attaching the camera.
Pro tip: If you’re mounting on a sloped eave or soffit, use a leveling shim (a small wedge) behind the mount to keep it flat. I use leftover plastic from packaging—works like a charm.
Step 5: Attach the Camera to the Mount
Now, the fun part—adding the camera.
- Magnetic mount: Just snap the camera on. It’ll click into place. Test it by gently tugging.
- Swivel mount: Slide or twist the camera onto the bracket. Most have a quick-release button—press it to remove later.
Adjust the angle so it covers your target area. Use the Arlo app’s live view to see what the camera sees. Tilt it slightly downward—this reduces glare and captures faces better.
For outdoor models, make sure the lens is clean and unobstructed. A smudge or cobweb can ruin your footage.
Step 6: Secure the Cable (If Applicable)
If you’re using a wired Arlo (like the Arlo Wired Floodlight), route the power cable carefully.
- Use weatherproof conduit or UV-resistant cable clips to protect it from sun and rain.
- Keep the cable tight but not strained. A loose cable can be a tripping hazard or get caught in a lawnmower.
- Use silicone sealant around the cable entry point to prevent water leaks.
For wireless models, make sure the battery is charged and the sync button is pressed to reconnect to your hub or Wi-Fi.
Step 7: Weatherproof and Protect the Install
Even “weatherproof” cameras need a little help in extreme conditions.
- Use silicone sealant around the screw holes and cable entry points. This prevents water from seeping behind the mount.
- Install a small awning or eave above the camera if it’s fully exposed. This reduces rain and sun damage.
- Check the lens monthly for dirt, spider webs, or condensation. A microfiber cloth works best.
Real-life example: My Arlo in Arizona baked in 115°F heat. The lens fogged up every morning. Adding a tiny plastic cover (like a cut-up bottle) solved it. Sometimes, low-tech fixes are the best.
Step 8: Test and Optimize
Open the Arlo app and check:
- Is the live feed stable?
- Is the motion detection accurate? (No false alerts from swaying trees or passing cars)
- Is the night vision clear?
- Is the Wi-Fi signal strong?
Adjust the motion zones in the app to focus on high-traffic areas. Disable alerts for low-priority spots (like a tree branch).
If the signal is weak, consider moving the hub closer or adding a Wi-Fi extender. Some Arlo models support 5GHz Wi-Fi—use it if your router allows for less interference.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Don’t Mount Too High
I see this all the time: people install cameras 15 feet up, thinking “higher is safer.” But at that height, you can’t make out faces or license plates. 7–8 feet is the sweet spot. High enough to avoid tampering, low enough to capture detail.
2. Avoid Direct Sunlight
Mounting a camera where the sun hits the lens all afternoon? You’ll get washed-out footage and glare. Angle it so the sun is behind the camera, or use a shade.
3. Skip the Adhesive Strips (Mostly)
Arlo’s adhesive strips work… for a while. But in heat, cold, or wind, they fail. I’ve seen them fall off after 6 months. Use screws whenever possible. If you must use adhesive (like on a rental), reinforce it with a small dab of silicone.
4. Don’t Forget the Sync Button
After mounting, press the sync button on the camera to reconnect it to the hub. I’ve forgotten this step more than once—and wondered why the app said “offline.”
5. Check for Obstructions
A bush, awning, or gutter can block part of your field of view. Trim plants regularly. I once had a camera pointed at a rose bush—great for privacy, terrible for security.
6. Use the Right Drill Bit
Using a wood bit on brick? You’ll burn out the bit and damage the wall. Always match the bit to the surface. Masonry bits are cheap—don’t skip them.
7. Label Your Cameras in the App
If you have multiple cameras, rename them in the Arlo app (e.g., “Front Door,” “Backyard”). Trust me—trying to remember which camera is “Camera 3” at 2 a.m. is not fun.
Personal insight: I once installed a camera on a metal gutter. The magnet held, but the vibration from wind made the feed shaky. Switched to a swivel mount screwed into the fascia—problem solved. Sometimes, the simplest solution isn’t the best.
FAQs About How to Attach Arlo Camera to House in 2026 Easy Guide
Can I mount an Arlo camera without drilling?
Yes, but with caveats. The adhesive strips work for short-term or low-wind areas. For long-term security, especially outdoors, drilling is best. If you’re renting, use a strong magnetic mount on a metal surface (like a gutter) or a non-penetrating clamp on a fence.
How do I attach an Arlo camera to brick?
Use a masonry drill bit and plastic anchors. Drill into the brick (not the mortar), insert the anchor, then screw in the mount. Add a dab of silicone around the screw for extra weatherproofing. This method holds up in rain, snow, and wind.
What’s the best height to mount an Arlo camera?
7–8 feet is ideal. High enough to avoid tampering, low enough to capture faces and license plates. If you’re mounting on a second story, use a ladder—and have a spotter!
Can I mount an Arlo camera on a tree?
Yes, but it’s tricky. Wrap the mount around the trunk with a heavy-duty strap (like a camera tripod strap) or screw it into a sturdy branch. Just make sure the tree doesn’t sway too much—it can cause false motion alerts.
How do I prevent my Arlo camera from getting stolen?
Use a swivel mount with a security screw (Arlo sells these). Or add a small lock or zip tie to the mount. Also, install it high and in a visible spot—most thieves avoid cameras they can’t easily remove.
Do I need a Wi-Fi extender for Arlo cameras?
If your camera is far from the router or behind thick walls, yes. A Wi-Fi extender (like an Arlo SmartHub or third-party mesh system) boosts the signal and reduces dropouts. Test the signal first—sometimes moving the hub 10 feet makes all the difference.
Can I use an Arlo camera indoors and outdoors?
Most Arlo models are rated for outdoor use (IP65 or IP66). But if you move an outdoor camera inside, clean the lens and disable weather alerts. Indoor cameras (like the Arlo Essential Indoor) aren’t weatherproof—don’t take them outside.
Final Thoughts
Installing an Arlo camera isn’t rocket science—but it does take a little planning and care. With this how to attach Arlo camera to house in 2026 easy guide, you now have the tools to do it right: pick the perfect spot, use the right hardware, secure the mount, and protect it from the elements.
Remember: a well-mounted camera is a reliable camera. It won’t fall off, it won’t lose signal, and it’ll capture the footage you need when it matters most.
So grab your drill, take your time, and don’t rush. And if you hit a snag? Take a breath. I’ve been there—and now I’ve got three Arlo cameras that have survived two hurricanes and a curious raccoon.
Your home’s security is worth the effort. Now go get it done—and sleep a little easier tonight.
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