Hang That Flag! A Quick Guide to Hanging Flags on Walls

Flags are a fun and meaningful way to decorate your home or express your heritage and interests. But how exactly do you hang a flag on a wall? With the right tools and techniques, it can be simple and straightforward to properly mount flags for an eye-catching display.

Whether you want to proudly exhibit your country's flag or creatively decorate with colorful flags and bunting, we've got you covered.

Things to Consider Before Hanging a Flag

Before you start hanging, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:

Weight and Size of the Flag

The dimensions and fabric weight impact the hanging method. Lightweight polyester or nylon flags can be secured with simple adhesives. But large or heavy cloth flags require more heavy-duty fasteners like screws or nails to support the weight. Take measurements to ensure your hardware and poles or rods can properly display the flag size.

Type of Wall

Wall composition makes a difference. Drywall, plaster, concrete, wood and other materials have different properties. Delicate surfaces like plaster require gentler hanging techniques to avoid cracks and holes. Sturdy brick or concrete walls allow for screws and anchors. Understanding your wall type helps choose suitable hanging methods.

Permanent vs. Temporary Display

Consider whether you want to permanently mount the flag or temporarily display it. Permanent options like screws provide the most secure hold but don't allow adjusting or repositioning the flag. Temporary adhesives like poster strips offer flexibility but aren't as durable long-term.

Local Flag Etiquette and Customs

Research any special guidelines, rules or customs for displaying flags in your area. Some countries have regulations about handling national flags with dignity and respect. Understanding relevant etiquette helps exhibit any ceremonial or patriotic flags properly.

Hanging Tools and Hardware

Once you've prepped your wall and flag, it's time to select suitable hanging tools. Here are some popular options:

Adhesives

Adhesive strips offer a damage-free hanging solution. Double-sided tape, painter's tape, or poster strips work for lightweight flags. Just press along the top edge of the flag. Command strips also attach easily without nails or tacks.

Nails

Small nails or tacks can be hammered into most walls to provide hanging points for flags. Avoid large nails that could crack plaster. Use anchors in drywall for heavy flags. Space nails evenly across the top of the flag, at least every 6 inches.

Flag Hanging Clips

Spring-style clips designed for flags offer adjustable and reliable holding power. Attach them along the top of the flag to distribute the weight. Then press into place on the wall. Use enough clips for the flag size.

Hanging a Flag on Drywall

Drywall is a common wall material that's easy to hang lightweight objects on. Here are some methods:

Method 1: Tape/Adhesive Strips

Apply double-sided tape or poster strips evenly across the top edge on the back of the flag. Position on the wall and press firmly for 30 seconds to adhere the adhesive. This temporary method allows repositioning.

Method 2: Nails/Tacks

Use a hammer to insert small nails or tacks into the drywall about 6 to 12 inches apart. Place tacks near the top of the flag and hang. The nails provide a permanent hold for display.

Method 3: Flag Hanging Clips

Attach spring clips evenly along the top of the flag to distribute the weight. Determine spacing based on flag size. Once clips are in place, simply press onto the drywall for secure and adjustable mounting.

Hanging a Flag on Plaster Walls

Plaster can crack easily, so delicate hanging is key. Here are tips:

• Use very small nails inserted with care to avoid cracks
• Space nails closely, at least every 6 inches for stability
• Adhesives like double-sided tape also work well
• For heavy flags, use anchors to prevent pulling plaster off the lathe

Hanging a Flag on Concrete or Brick Walls

Concrete and brick are very sturdy but require drilling and anchors. Some tips:

• Adhesives have less holding power on smooth concrete or brick
• Use plastic anchors and screws drilled into the wall material
• Pre-drill holes with a masonry bit before inserting anchors
• Spread anchors across the top of larger flags to evenly distribute weight

Hanging a Flag on Wooden Walls

Wood surfaces like paneling or boards allow for easy nail insertion. Follow these wood wall tips:

• Small nails easily penetrate wood without cracking
• Pre-drill holes for larger nails to prevent wood splitting
• Screws can also be used and allow adjustments if needed
• Use enough nails or screws across the flag's top for adequate support

Displaying Large or Heavy Flags

Extra large or heavy flags require reinforced mounting. Some tips:

• Rely on nails, screws, or anchors to support the weight
• Distribute the load across multiple hanging points
• Clips alone might not work for oversized or dense flags
• Allow flag to drape naturally, avoid pulling, straining or ripples

Following Flag Etiquette and Customs

When hanging ceremonial, governmental or historical flags, be sure to follow proper respect and protocol:

• Display in adherence to any guidelines or regulations
• The Union Flag has rules about orientation, for example
• Take flags down or illuminate them at night as needed
• Replace damaged or worn flags with care and respect
• Observe any relevant local customs that apply

Creatively Hanging Wall Flags

Beyond basic hanging, get creative with your flag displays:

• Group multiples flags together for bold impact
• Hang flag bunting swags across a wall surface
• Display flags at an angle rather than flat for visual interest
• Incorporate flags into wall art like a gallery, collage or mural

Hanging a flag on wall inside your home can be simple with the right techniques. Adhesives, hardware, poles and clips allow secure mounting on any wall type. Distribute weight across multiple anchors for safety with large or heavy flags. Most importantly, exhibit any ceremonial flags properly by following etiquette guidelines. With a little creativity, you can come up with an eye-catching display to proudly hang your flag with flair.