How to Mount NFC Tap Plates on Church Chairs: Adhesive or Screws
You’ve got your NFC tap plates. Now where do they go? There are two mounting options, both included or available at no extra charge. The right choice depends on what your chair backs are made of and how permanent you want the installation.
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3M Adhesive Backing (Most Popular)
This is what most churches use, and for good reason. Every plate ships with professional-grade 3M adhesive already applied to the back. There’s nothing extra to order, nothing extra to buy. Peel, stick, done.
How to Install
Hold the plate in place, check the height against the row, mark the spot
Clean the surface with rubbing alcohol or a damp cloth
Peel the backing and hold the plate by its edges
Press firmly for 30 seconds. Done.
Best For
Pros
- Fastest install, literally seconds per plate
- Holds strong once applied
- No tools needed
- No damage to your furniture
Cons
- Difficult to reposition once stuck (the adhesive is strong by design)
Pro Tip
Clean the surface with rubbing alcohol first for the strongest bond. The adhesive works best on smooth, hard surfaces like finished wood, plastic, or metal, and it needs a warm room: if the plates came off a cold truck, let the box sit somewhere heated overnight before you start. The bond keeps strengthening for a couple of days after you press, so install midweek rather than Saturday night.
Pre-Drilled Screw Holes
For churches that want a permanent, rock-solid mount. Tap.Giving can include pre-drilled holes in your plates so you can screw them directly into pew backs or chair arms. If your plates are going on wooden pews and you never want them to move, this is your option.
How to Install
Position the plate and mark holes with a pencil
Drill small pilot holes at your marks
Attach with small #4 or #6 wood screws
Tighten and you’re done
Screws not included, any #4 or #6 wood screw from the hardware store works. Pick up a box for a couple of dollars. That’s the only additional supply you’ll need.
Best For
Pros
- Most secure mount available
- Won’t shift or fall off, ever
- Clean, professional look
Cons
- Requires a drill and screws
- Leaves small holes if you remove the plates later
Pro Tip
Use screws with decorative heads, black or brass, to match your plate design. Always pre-drill pilot holes to avoid splitting the wood, especially on older pews.
Which Option Is Right for Your Church?
Here’s a quick decision guide. Find your situation on the left, and the recommended mounting option is on the right.
| Your Situation | Recommended Option |
|---|---|
| Own your building + wooden pews | Adhesive or Screws |
| Own your building + chairs | Adhesive |
| Upholstered or fabric chair backs | Screws or Adhesive on the frame or book rack |
| Rent your space | Adhesive, or skip the chairs |
| Set up and tear down weekly | Adhesive, or skip the chairs |
| Want the fastest install | Adhesive |
| Want the most permanent mount | Screws |
| Want zero furniture damage | Adhesive |
Not Sure?
Most churches start with the included 3M adhesive. It’s strong enough for permanent use but doesn’t require any tools or modifications. You can request pre-drilled holes instead at no extra charge. If your seating will take neither, plates work just as well on a welcome desk or entry table. View pricing to see the options.
Tap.Giving plates mounted on pew backs with 3M adhesive, clean, professional, and within easy reach
Placement Tips: Where on the Chair?
You’ve picked your mounting method. Now, where exactly should the plate go? The NFC read range is about 1 to 2 inches, so the plate needs to be somewhere congregants can easily tap their phone against it.
Back of the Chair or Pew
Most common placement. Mount the plate on the back of the chair or pew in front of the congregant. They see it at eye level when seated, natural and easy to reach.
RecommendedPew Top or Chair Arm
Works well for pews with a flat top rail or chairs with wide armrests. The plate sits within arm’s reach, making it a natural spot for a quick tap.
On the Offering Plate Itself
Some churches embed the NFC chip directly into a traditional offering plate. When the plate is passed, congregants can drop in cash or tap their phone, same familiar moment, new option.
Near Exit Doors
Mount a plate on the wall or a stand near exit doors for “give on the way out.” Great for people who missed the offering moment or want to give after the service.
NFC Read Range
The NFC chip reads at about 1 to 2 inches. That means the plate needs to be accessible for phone contact, not tucked behind a hymnal holder or buried under a seat cushion. As long as someone can comfortably hold their phone near the plate, it’ll work.
Ready to Mount Your Plates?
All plates include 3M adhesive backing. Pre-drilled screw holes can be requested at no extra charge when you place your order.
Questions? Email hello@tap.giving or call (832) 510-8788.