How To Hang Curtain Rods: A Step-By-Step Guide
Hey Everyone!! this is Vee I am Tania’s friend and I am going to be doing an apartment takeover series. This is a little something new we are trying out. Stay tuned for more tips and tricks as I am organizing and decorating my apartment!
Need tips on how to hang curtain rods the right way? I’ve got you covered. This step-by-step guide will help you hang your curtains and answer any questions you have along the way!
Hanging curtains should be easy! Installing a curtain rod is a fairly straightforward process. With a few materials and a couple of screws in the wall, you should be good to go, right?
Well, it’s not quite that simple.
There are a lot of factors that could influence your curtain rod installation! Whether it is an issue with leveling, measurement, or structural necessities, there are a few things you need to consider before you get started!
Luckily, I have all the information you need on how to hang curtain rods – the right way.
Curtains are an absolute necessity when it comes to blocking natural light as needed. They can also add style to your space and make your room look bigger (with a few strategic choices!).
This guide will help you pick the perfect curtains and curtain rods for your space and show you how to best install them!
How to hang curtain rods the right way
Easily hang curtain rods with this step-by-step guide.
Materials you’ll need
- Tape Measure
- Pencil
- Laser Level
- Screwdriver
- Screws
- Plastic Wall Anchors
- Wall Brackets
- Curtain Rod
- Curtains
Step 1 – Take your initial measurements
You’ll need measurements before purchasing some of your materials. These initial measurements will save you from a major headache later on!
Measurements to record:
- The width of your window
- The length of your window
- The length between the floor and the top of your window.
- The length between the top of your window and ceiling
These measurements will help you choose the correct curtains and curtain rods for your space.
Step 2 – Pick your materials
Before installation, set yourself up for success with your chosen curtains and curtain rod.
How wide should curtain rods be?
Your curtain rod should be longer than the width of your window so that curtains will reach right over the edge and cover the window completely. This can also create an illusion of a larger room!
A curtain rod that is 8 inches longer than your window will give you an additional 4 inches on each side. You can opt for an even longer curtain rod depending on your wall space and preference!
How wide should my curtains be?
A good rule of thumb is to buy curtains with a width about two times the width of your window. This will accommodate a longer curtain rod and give you full window coverage.
How long should my curtains be?
Curtain length depends on your preference and the effect you’re trying to create.
Curtains generally hang at one of three lengths – at the sill, just below the sill, or to the floor. Choose curtains that are the length between where you want the curtain to end and about 4-6 inches above your window (we generally hang curtain rods at this height).
If you want to create the illusion of a higher ceiling, you may want to hang your curtain rod a little higher! In this case, you’ll want to get curtains that equal the length between your floor and just below your ceiling.
When it comes to curtain length, always err on the side of caution. You can easily hem a curtain, but it’s much more difficult to add to the length!
Step 3 – Make your markings
Once you’ve made your decisions, it’s time to begin marking.
- Mark where you’re hanging your curtain rod with a pencil on either side of the window – use a laser level to check that these marks are even.
- Check where you’ll place your brackets – use a pencil to mark where you’ll place the screws.
- Decide if you need a center brace – If your curtain rod is longer than four feet, you may want to add a center support to prevent sagging. If needed, mark where you’ll place this brace with a pencil.
Step 4 – Installation!
Because you’ve already done the prep work, the installation is quick and easy.
- Drill pilot holes at your screw markings – this will help start the screws and prevent damaging the surrounding wall material.
- Screw plastic wall anchors into the pilot holes.
- Align your brackets with the wall anchors and insert your screws.
- Tighten the screws – the brackets should be flush with the wall.
Step 5 – Finishing touches
You’re almost there! Time for the last steps on how to hang curtain rods.
- Check the level! Place your curtain rod on the brackets and recheck the level – it should be perfect!
- Remove the rod and attach your curtains.
- Place the rod back on the brackets and enjoy your new curtains!
FAQs on how to hang curtain rods
If you have any remaining questions on how to install curtain rods, these should cover them!
Yup! This method is a great example of how to hang curtain rods in drywall. This is because we used plastic wall anchors; they will provide the perfect amount of support for your curtain rod.
The secret to how to hang curtain rods level is prep work! Measurements and consistent leveling are the keys to success.
Use a laser level when marking, drilling, and installing. This consistent checking will help ensure a level curtain rod.
When determining how high to hang curtain rods, I have two recommendations.
To make your ceiling appear sky-high, hang curtain rods 1-2 inches below your ceiling. For a classic look, hang curtain rods 4-6 inches above the top of your window.
Final thoughts on how to hang curtain rods
Curtains are a powerful design tool both in function and design – they’re the ultimate finishing touch to any room. I hope this guide provides you with all the information you need on how to hang curtain rods in your home and enjoy your new curtains!
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Tania Griffis is an accomplished writer, blogger, and interior designer with a Journalism degree from the University of Oklahoma. She started her popular blog, Run to Radiance, in 2011, demonstrating her design expertise through the personal remodeling of six houses to millions of readers across the globe.
Tania also owns The Creative Wheelhouse, a respected ghostwriting agency for bloggers, further showcasing her talent for creating engaging and informative content.
