How to Hang Wreaths on Outside Windows Properly

Hanging wreaths on outside windows might seem difficult, but we’ll guide you through the process so that you don’t damage your home. The process is different for double-hung windows double-hung windows which have an operable upper sash, versus single-hung windows, which have a stationary upper sash.

Hanging Wreaths on Double-Hung Windows

All you need is your favourite wreath, ribbon, hot glue and a thumbtack. You can even hang your wreath without venturing outside!

Here’s how:

1. Buy festive ribbon. Thicker ribbon usually looks best (2+ inches wide). The ribbon colour and pattern should complement the greenery, the season and your home’s siding.

2. Measure the height of your window. Add 8 to 10 inches to that height measurement and cut a length of ribbon that long. You can always cut away the excess, but you can’t add more fabric!

3. Loop the ribbon through the top of the wreath to create a “U” shape. If you have vinyl or metal windows, tie the ends of the ribbon into a large knot. If your windows are wooden, you can either tie a knot or leave the ends loose for now.

4. Use hot glue to secure the ribbon in place on the back of the wreath. This will keep it from spinning in the wind and getting lopsided. If you decided to leave the ribbon ends loose (because you have wood windows), glue those loose ends together now as well.

5. Clean your windows so you don’t have to display your festive wreath on dirty glass.

6. Open the top of the window and dangle the wreath outside. Keep a firm hold on the long tail of the ribbon. If you used the knotted ribbon method, simply close the top window on the ribbon, with the knot still inside, and lock it. If you used the glued-ends method (for wood windows), secure the ribbon on the top sash with a thumbtack before closing and locking the window.

7. Enjoy your newly hung wreath!

Extra tips to change the look:

If you don’t like seeing a knot inside your window, wrap and glue the ribbon ends around a short piece of dowel rod. This will act as an anchor, just like the knot, but with a cleaner aesthetic.

If you are hanging a winter holiday wreath, why not add some holiday lights around your windows too? If so, you may need a new outlet installed. Our Mr. Electric® brand can assist. View our page on outlet installations for more information.

Hanging Wreaths on Single-Hung Windows

Hanging wreaths on single-hung windows is slightly different. Here are three methods:

• If you have shutters, create the illusion of a floating wreath with fishing line. Tie a long piece of fishing line to one shutter and loop it through the top of the wreath several times. Then tie the other end to the opposite shutter. Pull the fishing line taut to anchor your wreath.
• Use suction cup hooks. You can attach your wreath directly to the glass with a suction cup hook. This only works on clean, undamaged windows. If your old windows are looking drab or damaged, try these tests suggested by Glass Doctor® to see if you really need new windows.
• Magnet hooks work for single-pane windows and windows with metal frames. They come in two pieces. On single-pane glass, the hook goes on the outside and supports the wreath. The other half contains a powerful magnet that secures the hook from the inside. If you have a metal-frame window, you can just use the hook half.

Helpful Damage Control Tips

Scratched glass is never a good look. Add a layer of felt to the wreath’s underside to protect your window from prickly pine needles and sharp wire. Additionally, even if you hung the wreath from the top sash, consider double securing it with a suction cup hook on the glass.

When hanging wreaths on the side of your house, there should never be a need to drill through your expensive siding. Try using floral wire, fishing line, removable adhesive hooks or magnet hooks. If your patience is running short – or you’ve already damaged your siding – look for one of our nearby Mr. Handyman® locations. We have both carpentry expertise and holiday décor services.

Lean on Home Service Professionals

Now that you know how to hang wreaths on outside windows, it’s time to dress up your home. What other home improvements or repairs do you have in mind? No matter what you need, there’s a Neighbourly® brand ready to help! Search our extensive home services to find experts you can trust.