Holiday Decorating Tips: How to Hang Your Wreaths Without Ruining Your Warranty

If you drive through any Pittsburgh neighborhood in December, you’ll see doors and windows dressed in garland, wreaths, and twinkling lights. But while decorating is part of the fun, it can also come with a hidden risk: you might accidentally void your door or window warranty.

At Energy Swing Windows and Doors, we see it every year, a homeowner drills a small hole or uses strong adhesive, and suddenly their finish is peeling or their frame is scratched. These issues often aren’t covered under warranty because they count as avoidable damage, not manufacturer defects

The good news? With the right tools and techniques, you can decorate safely and protect your investment. In this article you’ll learn the best decorating methods and what to avoid so you can have a festive home and keep your warranty!

What Can Actually Void a Window or Door Warranty During the Holidays?

It’s easy to assume that a bit of seasonal décor can’t hurt, but these common missteps will void your warranty:

• Drilling or screwing into the frame or cladding — This instantly voids your warranty.

• Using harsh adhesives that strip or discolor your door’s finish or paint.

• Hanging heavy wreaths from glass or door handles that weren’t meant to bear weight.

• Wind damage from wreaths that sway and scratch fiberglass, steel, or glass surfaces.

Think of it this way: warranties cover defects, not misuse. So while normal wear is expected, avoidable damage, like scratches from a swinging decoration, isn’t covered.

Takeaway: If it penetrates, sticks permanently, or swings freely… it’s a risk.

Can You Hang a Wreath on a Door Without Drilling or Screws?

Absolutely. There are several safe, warranty-friendly ways to hang wreaths. Here are the best methods:

• Over-the-door hangers – Easy to use, but make sure they’re padded to prevent scuffs and not compressing your weatherstripping (which could cause air leaks).

• Magnetic hooks – Great for steel doors, but choose one strong enough to hold your wreath without sliding down.

• High-powered suction cups – Perfect for glass panels, as long as they’re rated for outdoor temps.

Removable adhesive hooks (like Command™ strips) – Ideal for short-term use. Be cautious when removing them after long exposure to sunlight, color differences can appear on older paint finishes.

Pro Tip: Choose lightweight wreaths under 5 lbs and mounting options specific to your door’s material.

What About Hanging Wreaths on Windows Without Risk?

Decorating windows can be just as simple if you do it right. Here are your safest options:

• Suction cup hooks: Best for glass or vinyl, as they won’t damage the frame.

• Magnetic hooks: May work on certain glass panes but can slip if the glass is too thick.

• Ribbon-through-the-top method: Looping a ribbon over the sash gives a classic look but allows a little more movement in windy conditions.

Because Pittsburgh winters often bring sub-freezing temps, be sure to select adhesives and suction cups rated for cold weather. Lower-quality products can lose grip when the temperature drops below 20°F, sending your wreath tumbling.

Local Insight: Western PA’s freeze-thaw cycles can cause condensation under suction cups, so clean your glass first for a stronger seal.

What Hanging Methods Will Void Your Warranty? Avoid These!

No matter how creative your holiday spirit gets, avoid these high-risk methods at all costs:

• Nails, screws, or staples on door frames, trim, or cladding

• Duct tape, hot glue, or industrial-strength adhesives

• Hanging décor from door handles, knobs, or locks

• Any mounting that puts stress on your door’s seal or surface

If your wreath has a metal cage backing, cover the sharp edges with felt or fabric pads before hanging. This small step can prevent scratches if the wreath moves in the wind.

Different Doors = Different Safe Hanging Methods

Here’s a quick guide: