Curtains can bring a room together and play a functional role in your home. They provide privacy, block sunlight and can help you get a good night’s sleep, but only if they’re hung properly. Learn how to install curtains or drapes correctly with the following tips and tricks.
Selecting Curtain Hardware
After you choose your curtains, pull it all together with rods and tracks to match. Heavier fabrics, such as velvet, need strong rods to support the weight, so your average tension rod won’t work for those. The hardware should also complement other fixtures in your room. If your furniture pieces have silver knobs, consider using silver hardware. Finials at the end of the rods should also match the room’s aesthetics in color and style.
Measuring and Marking
Before you start, measure your window width, height and position between ceiling and floor. You want your curtains to be wide enough that there’s no gap for sunlight to enter. Curtains that are too short can make your ceiling feel lower and the entire space feel cramped. Ideally, they should hang just above the floor, unless your curtains are above a surface like your kitchen counter.
Before you put nails into your wall or otherwise start hanging, plan out where hardware will fit around your windows. Use a pencil and tape measure to mark the desired position of the brackets that will hold up the curtain rod, usually around 4 to 6 inches above the frame. Brackets should also be about 6 inches from the outside edge of the window frame to allow ample natural light. If you have blinds, measure how far they stick out from the casings to dictate the necessary offset of the brackets and rods from the wall.
Installing Curtain Hardware
Once you’ve measured and determined proper placement, use a screwdriver to install the curtain brackets and check to make sure they’re even by using a level. For heavier curtains or if you have plaster walls, use wall anchors or a stud finder to make sure the brackets are securely attached. Curtains won’t be much use if they and the rods both end up on the floor from improper hanging!
Hanging the Curtains
Before you hang the rod onto the hardware, attach the curtains using rings, hooks or grommets. You’ll likely need an extra set of hands to help lift the rod into place with curtains attached into the hardware. Once set, take a step back to see how you want to adjust for your desired look. If you’re using a tension rod and it’s not the correct height, take it back down and move the hardware up or down to get it just right.
Additional Curtain Considerations
For a more formal style or if it fits your design aesthetic, use tieback cords or holdback hardware for a different look. There are many different types of curtains to explore—traditional valances work great on tall windows and add texture, sheers give texture and privacy while keeping an airy feel and blackout curtains are great at blocking sunlight in bedrooms and work as an insulator.
Transform Your Home with Window World
When installed properly, curtains make a big impact on the feel of a room. Enhancing your home decor while enjoying the added benefits of light control and privacy is a win-win. Ready to make an even bigger impact on your home? Window World of New Orleans offers a wide selection of custom replacement windows, doors or siding and professional installation, all backed by a best-in-class limited lifetime warranty. Contact us today and request a free estimate to get started.