How to Hang Window Boxes Without Drilling | 5 Ways

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Window boxes are a charming and practical addition to any home. They add a touch of greenery and color to your windows and can even serve as a mini garden.

However, drilling into walls to hang them can be intimidating, especially if you're renting or simply don’t have the proper tools. Fortunately, there are non-drilling methods for hanging window boxes that are easy to install.

In this article, you'll learn about 5 different non-drill methods for hanging window boxes, including adjustable brackets, vinyl siding hangers, suction cup hooks, tension rods, and adhesive hooks and strips. We'll also cover an alternative hanging method as a bonus .

Additionally, I’ll provide maintenance & troubleshooting advice to ensure that your window boxes are safe and stable. No one wants their shiny new window box to end up on the ground!

So, whether you're a gardening enthusiast or just looking to add some curb appeal to your home, read on to learn how to hang window boxes without drilling.

Just ‘hang’ with me, and let’s ‘drill’ into this subject .

Understanding & Choosing the Right Window Boxes for You

When it comes to choosing the right window box, there are a few things to consider.

First, you'll want to think about the different materials and styles available. Some common materials include wood, metal, plastic, and fiberglass. 

Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks:

• Wooden window boxes are a popular choice because they are durable and can be painted or stained to match your home's exterior.
• Metal window boxes are durable and sturdy, and come in a variety of styles, from traditional to contemporary.
• Plastic window boxes are lightweight, easy to clean, and inexpensive.
• Fiberglass window boxes are lightweight, sturdy, and weather resistant.

Once you've chosen a material, you'll want to consider the overall weight and size of the window box, as well as the number of plants it will hold. 

You don't want to choose a window box that is too heavy for your window or too small for your plants. Consider the weight of the soil, plants, and water when selecting a window box.

Also, choose a window box that complements the style and color of your home's exterior. Consider the color and texture of your siding, shutters (if any), and trim when selecting a window box.

Preparations Before Hanging a Window Box

Even though you’ll be installing your window boxes without doing any drilling, it’s important to prepare beforehand. This will ensure that your window boxes are as secure as possible and look great.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step is to choose the right location for your window boxes.
You want to select a spot that will provide enough sunlight for your plants to thrive. You also want to make sure that the location is easily accessible so that you can water your plants and tend to them as needed.

Once you've selected a location, think about the weight of the window box and the plants that will be in it.
You want to make sure that the chosen location can support the weight without causing damage.

Measuring Accurately

Once you have selected the location for your window boxes, it’s time to measure. This will help ensure that your window boxes can fit and are level.

Tools Needed:

• Measuring Tape
• Basic Level Tool

Non-Drilling Hanging Method 1: Adjustable Window Box Brackets

If you don't want to drill holes, then these adjustable brackets are a great alternative. They’re the popular choice when it comes to no-drill options – and they work very well on brick!

These brackets are designed to attach to your window’s ledge (called the “Windowsill”) or onto deck railings without the need for drilling. They are easy to install and are adjustable to fit different sizes of window boxes and different ledge thicknesses.

To make sure your desired brackets are compatible with your window boxes, make sure to measure the depth of your window’s ledge (or the depth of your railing, if installing it there). Compare that measurement to the depth of the bracket.

Step-by-step instructions to install window boxes on brackets:

1. Slightly loosen the adjustable screws on the bracket until it can slide freely.
2. Position the bracket onto your windowsill (or railing).
3. Tighten the adjustable screws in place, ensuring that the bracket feels solid and tight.
4. Place the window box onto the bracket and use the level tool to make sure it’s even.
5. Secure the window box to the brackets using the provided screws or clips (if applicable).
6. Double-check that the window box is securely attached before adding any plants or other items.
   
   

Non-Drilling Hanging Method 2: Vinyl Siding Hangers

Vinyl siding hangers are another great option for hanging window boxes without drilling holes into your siding. These hangers are designed to fit over the top edge of your vinyl siding, providing a secure and stable base for your window box.

Step-by-step instructions to install windows boxes on vinyl siding hangers:

  1. Start by cleaning the area of your vinyl siding where you want to hang your window box. Use a mild detergent and water to remove any dirt or debris from the surface.

  2. Slide the vinyl siding hanger over the top edge of your vinyl siding. Make sure the hanger is level and securely attached to the siding.

  3. Attach a mounting bracket for your window box to the vinyl siding hanger (the mounting brackets here will be slightly different than the adjustable ones recommended in Method 1). And the hangers recommended here come with a pre-drilled hole for the mounting bracket, making installation quick and easy.

  4. Hang your window box on the mounting bracket and adjust it as needed to make sure it's level.

  5. Finally, add your plants and enjoy your beautiful new window box!

Non-Drilling Hanging Method 3: Outdoor Suction Cups w/ Screws

A third drill-free method is to hang your window boxes by using outdoor suction cups. But not just any suction cups - these come with built-in screws! I don't see ANY of the popular blog posts talk about these hidden gems. 

These hooks are designed for outdoor use and can provide stable support for your lightweight window boxes.

Step-by-step instructions to install window boxes on suction cups with screws:

1. Clean the surface of your window or window frame where you plan to attach the suction cup hooks. Use a bit of rubbing alcohol or regular window cleaner.
2. Attach the suction cups to the cleaned surface by pressing firmly and evenly. Make sure the suction cups are at an even level.
3. Attach the support brackets to the suction cups by inserting them onto the built-in screws and tightening the included nuts.
4. Place your window box onto the support brackets and adjust & level as needed.

Non-Drilling Hanging Method 4: Tension Rods

Tension rods are a quick and less well-known hanging method for window boxes.

They work by creating a secure grip between the window frame and the box, using the tension created by the rod. This method is ideal for windows with a recessed area, where the rod can be placed inside the frame.

Below are 2 examples: One window has recessed space while the other one does not.

To determine the right size and weight capacity of the tension rod you need, measure the width of your window frame.
Choose a tension rod that is only slightly smaller than the width of the frame to allow for a snug fit once the rod is extended.

Make sure to check the weight capacity of the rod to ensure it can support the weight of your window box and plants.

Step-by-step instructions to install tension rods:

1. Measure the width of your window frame and choose a tension rod that is slightly smaller than the width of the frame.
2. Insert the tension rod into the window frame, making sure it is level (use your level tool).
3. Adjust the tension of the rod by twisting it until it is firmly in place.
4. Place the window box onto the tension rod, making sure it is centered.
   
   •  You may need to use some of these brackets here to attach the window box to the rod.
5. Lightly pull on the tension rod to ensure it’s sturdily pressing against the window frame.

Non-Drilling Hanging Method 5: Adhesive Hooks and Strips

Adhesive hooks and strips are a simple, fast, and easy way to hang window boxes without drilling. They work by sticking to the surface of your wall or window frame using the power of adhesive glue, providing a firm hold.

If you go this route, make sure your window boxes have a 'lip' where the hooks can grab onto. (I've included a window box example that has a lip around the rim.)

Alternative Hanging Method: Freestanding Planters on the Balcony or Windowsill

If you're looking for a way to add some greenery to your balcony or windowsill without drilling, freestanding planters or pots can be a great option. These planters can be placed on any suitable surface without the need for any installation, making them a versatile and easy-to-use option.

Basically, this is just setting a regular pot or window box sit on a flat surface without the need to also install a bracket - it can't get any easier than that!

Maintenance & Troubleshooting Tips: Safety and Stability

By taking proper precautions, your window boxes will remain stable, and your plants stay secure. Here are some tips to help you maintain your window boxes:

Weight Distribution and Proper Plant Care

One of the keys to maintaining stability is to ensure that the weight of your window box is evenly distributed. This means using a high-quality bracket or support system that can handle the weight of your box and plants. It's also important to choose plants that are appropriate for the size and weight of your box and to avoid overloading it.

Regular watering and plant care can also help prevent imbalance. Make sure to water your plants regularly and evenly, while also removing any dead leaves or flowers. This will help keep your plants healthy and prevent the window box from becoming too heavy on one side.

Regular Maintenance and Checks

To ensure that your window boxes remain secure, it's important to perform regular maintenance and checks. Inspect the brackets (or whatever hanging method you chose) for any signs of wear or damage and tighten any loose screws or bolts if needed.

It's also a good idea to periodically check the weight distribution of your box. You can do this by lifting it slightly and checking to see if it feels balanced. If it feels off, you may need to adjust the placement of your plants or add more soil to one side.

Removing Window Boxes During Severe Weather or Seasonal Changes

Finally, you may consider removing your window boxes during severe weather or seasonal changes. This can help prevent the window boxes from falling off and damaging your plants. For example, during a heavy rainstorm or snowfall, the weight of the water or snow can cause your box to become too heavy and therefore fall off.

Preventing Wobbling and Adding Stability

If you run into some wobbling or swaying, you may need to add reinforcement to the hanging method you used.

For example, you can use zip ties or wire to secure the window box to the brackets or supports. You can also use strong double-sided tape to give the box a little more holding strength where needed.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts (TL;DR)

Congrats, you made it to the end!

After reading this article, hopefully, you have more of an understanding of how to hang window boxes without drilling. You have plenty of different options such as adhesive hooks, tension rods, and adjustable brackets that fit over the windowsill. These non-drilling methods are a great solution if you live in an apartment or rental property where you can't drill holes in the walls.

If I had to choose, I would recommend going with adjustable brackets, vinyl siding hangers, or tension rods, – but choose what works best for YOU and YOUR home.

Have any additional feedback or different ideas on window boxes? Let me know down below.

See you in the next one.
Take care!