Adding curtains to any part of the house is an important part of home interior projects which a homeowner can undertake. It not only enhances the aesthetics of the space but also provides privacy and an extra layer of protection from harsh sunlight. This blog will provide simple techniques and steps to help you install curtain rods at home with minimal hassle.
Types of Curtain Rods
Before getting started, it is important to decide which type of curtain rods suits the space. There are several options available, however, the most commonly used ones are as below:
Classic Curtain Rods: These feature an adjustable pole that attaches to the wall using brackets. They often come with decorative finials, which prevent the curtains from falling off the ends.
Double Curtain Rods: These work much like classic curtain rods, as they are also attached to the wall using brackets. The difference here is that this type has two curtain rods. The thicker or the primary rod is for the main curtain, and the thinner one or the secondary rod is for hanging lightweight sheer curtains.
Return Curtain Rods: They are uniquely designed U-shaped poles that enclose the entire window. This blocks any form of exposure to the incoming light, as it allows the curtains to be pulled completely to the sides.
Start by Measuring the Window
It is always suggested to measure the window carefully to ensure both curtains and curtain rods fit properly. Start measuring from 4-6 inches above the window frame down to the floor, as it may help you determine the ideal curtain length!
Measuring the Width of a Curtain Rod
In addition to measuring the window, it is also equally important to select the right width of curtain rod to maintain a balance between functionality and aesthetics. It is important to choose a curtain rod that is wider than the window frame.
This makes the space feel larger by allowing the curtains to be fully drawn to the sides. Ideally, the rod should be 8-12 inches longer than the window’s width, thus providing 4-6 inches of space on either side.
Deciding the Curtain Rod Placement
The positioning of curtain rods significantly influences their finished look. An outside mount allows more light penetration when the curtains are open, thereby making this a perfect choice if natural light is the priority. In this, a high outside curtain rod mount can make ceilings seem taller, and a wide outside mount can make the window seem wider.
On the other hand, an inside mounting suits windows with deep or extended sills. This gives a rather neat and finished look.
Mark and Mount Brackets
Once you have decided on the placement, the next step is to mark and screw the hardware into the wall. Use a pencil and a level to mark the place where your hardware would go. To ensure accurate placement, hold the bracket in the desired position against the wall. Then use a pencil to mark where the screws will go.
Before mounting the brackets, it is recommended to drill pilot holes at the marked points. This can prevent the screws from cracking the casing or wall material.
After this, brackets can be fastened to the wall using a drill or screwdriver. Continue the same step for mounting the other bracket, while making sure that they are securely fastened to the wall.
Hang the Curtain Rods
Once the brackets are mounted, simply insert the curtain rod to complete the process. If the curtain kit comes with rings, the first step would be to attach the rings to the rod. Then secure the curtain to the curtain rings. Otherwise, for single-rod setups without any rings, merely sliding the curtain to the rod will do.
Hanging Curtain Rods without Drilling
If you live in a rented space, drilling may not really be an ideal option. To solve this problem, tension rods offer an effective way to hang curtain rods without drilling into the wall. They are not limited to windows, but also work very well for hanging curtains between two walls.
Step 1: To install one, start by taking measurements of the distance between the inside walls of your window. It is advised to choose a curtain rod that is a bit longer than this measurement.
Step 2: Either use rings or simply slide the curtain through the rod, then unlock both ends of the curtain rod and extend it against the walls. Expand the rod enough to make sure it is a secure fit. It is important to make sure that it is tightly secured and level.
Step 3: After hanging, check if the rod can take the weight of the curtain. This is because if the rod sags, you may have to add a support in the middle.
Conclusion
Hanging curtain rods might seem challenging, but if you do it step by step, it gets easier. With accurate measurements and the right tools, the process can become much more manageable. At the end of the day, the right curtains can add flair to any living space, thereby making this DIY worth the effort.
