There are a few different options for securing a wreath to the front door. The best method will depend on the type of door you have and the style of wreath you want to hang. The key is finding a way to hang the wreath securely, while still allowing you to easily remove it after the holidays. In this article, we’ll go over some quick tips for hanging a wreath on common front door styles.
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Hanging a Wreath on a Standard Front Door
Most standard front doors are flat with some type of door frame. This style of door provides a few different options for securing a wreath:
Command Hooks
One easy option is to use command hooks. These removable adhesive hooks stick securely to the door frame or door itself without damaging the surface. To use:
- Clean the surface where you plan to stick the hooks
- Press the command hooks firmly onto the door frame or door
- Let them sit for 1 hour before hanging anything on them
- Hang the wreath using decorative cord, ribbon, or a wreath hanger that attaches to the hooks
The advantage of command hooks is they can be moved and reused. Just be sure to get hooks sturdy enough to hold the weight of your wreath.
Nails or Screws
You can also hang a wreath by driving nails or screws into the door frame. Use finishing nails or decorative header screws. Hammer the nails or drive the screws partially in, leaving enough exposed to tie wreath hangers onto.
The wreath hanger wire can then be wrapped around the nail head or screw to hang the decoration. This provides a very secure hold. Just fill the holes and touch up paint when removing the nails/screws.
Over-the-Door Wreath Hangers
Wreath hangers that fit over the top of the door are another option. These hangers have a hook on one side and a pad that presses against the other side of the door frame.
To use:
- Place the pad side against the front of the door frame
- Hook the other end over the top edge of the frame
- Adjust so the hanger is secure
- Hang the wreath loop using the hanger’s hook
This type of hanger keeps the wreath centered and prevents swiveling. Just be sure to get one sturdy enough to handle the wreath’s weight.
Hanging a Wreath on a Glass Storm Door
For glass storm doors, use wreath hangers that attach to the door handle or hang from above:
Handle Hangers
Special wreath hangers are designed to hang over a glass storm door’s handle. They have a hook on one end and a pad that fits around the handle on the other.
To install:
- Place the pad around the handle, adjusting it to fit snugly
- Position the hook end at the top
- Hang the decorative wreath loop using the hook
This wreath hanger uses the handle to hold the weight of the decoration. Make sure to get one with a thick, sturdy pad that will stay securely on the handle.
Hanging from Above
You can also hang a wreath above a glass storm door using a hook and nail, command hooks, or over-the-door hanger.
Install the hardware over the storm door on the exterior door frame. Then hang the wreath from the hardware using decorative cord, wreath hangers, or hooks. This allows the wreath to show through the glass storm door while keeping your exterior door damage-free.
Hanging on a Security Door
Security doors made of heavy metal mesh or bars provide a few more options for hanging holiday wreaths:
Zip Ties
For metal mesh security doors, use heavy duty zip ties to attach a wreath hanger or decorative cord for hanging. Simply loop the zip tie around a metal bar in the door grille, cinch it closed securely, and trim off any excess length.
The zip tie provides a sturdy hold for lightweight holiday wreaths. You can easily snip it off and replace it next season.
Over-the-Door Hooks
Special wreath hangers are made to hang over security doors from above. They have a flat pad that presses against one side of the door frame and an adjustable hook that fits over the other side.
To install:
- Place the flat pad against the exterior door frame or wall above the security door
- Extend the hook so it fits over the other side of the frame
- Tighten so the hanger is secure
- Hang the wreath using the hook
This leaves the security door itself untouched while providing a way to hang decorations from above.
Between Door Grille
For security doors with wider mesh grilles, you can use decorative cord to hang a wreath directly on the door. Simply loop the cord around a crossbar in the grille and tie securely.
Position your wreath toward the top or bottom of the door so it’s visible between the bars. This creates a nice effect while allowing the door itself to stay securely locked.
Hanging on a Front Door with Sidelights
Many entryways have sidelight windows flanking the door. This provides some extra space to hang a wreath decoratively:
Inside the Sidelight
Hang a lightweight wreath with suction cups inside one of the sidelight windows. Press the suction cups against the glass to adhere them. Then let the wreath hang down within the window space itself.
This puts your wreath on display behind the glass, while keeping your door and entryway free of holes.
Outside the Sidelight
You can also hang a wreath on the exterior wall or door frame right next to a sidelight window. Position it about halfway up the window height or aligned with the top for a dramatic look.
Use command hooks on the wall or an over-the-door wreath hanger on the frame installed near the window. The sidelight provides a pretty backdrop to make your wreath pop.
On the Sidelight Frame
For a lightweight grapevine or artificial wreath, use command hooks to hang it directly on the sidelight window’s metal frame. Just space several hooks evenly around the frame, then use them to hang decorative cord or multiple wreath hangers.
This lets the wreath frame the window nicely without damaging the door or wall.
Tips for Hanging Wreaths
Use these tips to make sure your wreath hangs beautifully and securely all season long:
- Use wreath hangers or hardware that can support at least triple the wreath’s weight to account for winds or movement
- Hang the wreath about one-third down from the top of the door, adjusting up or down depending on your door style
- Make sure the hanger allows the wreath to lie flat against the door or hang straight down for a neat appearance
- Check periodically throughout the holidays to ensure hooks are still tight and secure
- Fill any holes and touch up paint nicks or scratches after removing nails or screws
With the right techniques for your door style, you can easily hang a festive wreath to welcome guests for the holidays.
Conclusion
Hanging a wreath on your front door is a great way to decorate for the season. While there are several options depending on your door type, the key is finding a method that keeps the wreath secure while protecting your entryway. Consider the style and weight of your wreath when choosing hooks, hangers, or hardware. With these tips, you can display beautiful holiday wreaths that safely adorn your home’s entrance.