How to Hang a Wreath on a Front Door: The Ultimate Christmas Guide

Christmas is a time of celebration, and one of the ways we do that is by putting up stunning decorations, including wreaths on front doors. Hanging a wreath on a front door is easy, though, right?

Many think that hanging up a wreath just takes a hammer and nail, and while this is an option, it’s not the best method for all types of doors. Green Doors brings you a complete guide that will answer how to hang a wreath on your front door.

What You Need to Hang a Wreath on Your Front Door

Before we jump into the different methods, let’s first go over the type of equipment and tools you’ll need.

Choosing the Right Wreath (Artificial vs Real)

Do you go for an artificial or a real wreath? In terms of hanging it up, the option doesn’t really matter. Real wreaths come with the advantage of providing a fresh scent and an authentic look and feel, but a real wreath will also only last the Christmas season and will also need to be misted to stay fresh.

An artificial wreath is an option most households choose, as they can be used year-on-year, and they are often made of fire-retardant materials, making them safer when hanging lights too. 

Essential Tools and Accessories 

Here is a list of the different tools and accessories you can use to hang a wreath on your front door:

• Over the door wreath hanger
• Adhesive hooks
• Magnetic wreath hangers for metal doors
• Ribbon or twine
• Suction cups for glass doors

Let’s delve into a step-by-step guide for each of these tools.

How to Hang a Wreath on a Front Door Without Damaging It

Using an Over-the-Door Wreath Hanger

One of the most popular methods, as it’s possibly the easiest, is to purchase an over-the-door hanger which slips effortlessly over the top of most standard doors. Thicker doors can use wider or adjustable hangers. The main benefits of over-the-door wreath hangers are that they’re cheap, quick to put up, and can handle even the heaviest of wreaths thanks to using gravity.

The only main downside is ensuring your door fully shuts with the hanger in place, so always double-check that you can secure your home when setting up.

Using Adhesive Hooks (e.g. Command Hooks)

Adhesive hooks, such as Command Hooks, can stick to a variety of door surfaces, including those made from wood, aluminium or composite. A big benefit is that they don’t leave any residue or damage your door when you remove them. The strong adhesive backing is great for hanging both artificial and real wreaths of different sizes.

Simply clean your door’s surface with a cloth to help the hook stick better. Then, remove the backing from the command strip and stick the hook at the desired position on your door. Ensure you wait the right amount of time according to the manufacturer’s instructions before placing your wreath on the hook.

Using Magnetic Wreath Hangers (For Metal Doors)

Magnetic wreath hangers are an easy and damage-free way to hang a wreath on a metal front door. Using two strong magnets that grip firmly to the door’s surface, there’s no need for nails, screws or adhesives. In fact, with a magnetic hanger, you can get your wreath hung in all its glory in a matter of seconds.

Simply place the hanger on the exterior side of the front door, and once secured, you can place your wreath on the strong hook. Perhaps the best thing about this method – they can be removed and repositioned in seconds without leaving a mark.

Using Ribbon or Twine for a Decorative Look

If you’re looking for a more festive, decorative look, choose to hang your wreath with a ribbon or twine. This hanging method is perfect for both traditional and modern front doors. To secure it, loop the ribbon or twine through the top of your wreath and tie it to the length you want, leaving enough slack for the wreath to sit naturally.

Open your front door and place the loose end of the ribbon or twine over the top edge of the door so it hangs down the front. Gently close your door, so the ribbon is clamped between the frame and the door, which holds it firmly in place.

The length can be adjusted easily, and if you need extra grip, a simple thumb tack or a small piece of tape on the inside can be added.

Suction Cups for Glass Doors

If your front door is made of glass or features large glass windows, suction cups are the ideal choice for hanging your wreath. These are also great for uPVC doors with a smooth surface. Begin by cleaning the door’s surface where the suction cup will be placed. Slightly wet the suction cup and press it firmly into place on your glass.

Either hang your wreath directly onto the hook or again use a festive ribbon. Heavier wreaths may require several suction cups.

How to Hang a Wreath on uPVC or Composite Front Doors

Why Traditional Screws Aren’t Suitable

uPVC and composite doors should never be drilled or screwed into because the outer skins will crack and weaken. Screws and nails can also damage insulation layers or compromise weather sealing. These materials are not designed to take fixing the way timber does, so using screws risks long term structural damage. 

Best No-damage, Secure Solutions

For uPVC and composite doors, the safest options include over-the-door hooks, magnetic hangers and adhesive hooks that are rated for the outdoors. Ribbon or twine secured over the top of the door also works wonders, and these methods hold the wreath securely without damaging the surface.

Avoiding Damage to Paint and uPVC

To avoid damaging your painted composite door or uPVC surface, opt for soft-backed hooks, avoid abrasive adhesives and keep heavy wreaths supported with two points if needed. It’s important to clean the surface before applying any stick-on solution to prevent dirt from scratching the finish when removed. 

How to Hang a Wreath on Wooden Front Doors

Using Very Small Nails or Tacks (If Appropriate)

Wooden doors can accept tiny nails or tacks, but they should be placed carefully to avoid splitting the grain. A single small fixing above eye level is usually enough for seasonal wreaths and can be reused each year. 

When it’s Safe to Drill

Drilling is suitable for permanent hooks, as long as the door is solid timber rather than thin veneer. Use a small pilot hole, a suitable screw and a rust resistant hook designed for the outdoors.

Weather Considerations

Moisture can cause timber to swell, so make sure hooks and fixings are stainless steel and avoid placing holes in areas prone to rain. Ensure the wreath doesn’t become damp, which can make it heavy and add strain on the fixing.

Explore Our Range of Sustainable Doors

Now you know how to hang a wreath! So, how about a fancy new front door for Christmas to display your wreath on? Explore our range of sustainable doors that come in all shapes and sizes, including bi-fold doors, sliding doors, French doors and more. Get in touch with Green Doors for any help finding the perfect door for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions