Curtain rods

Choosing the correct curtain rod

Selecting the right long curtain rods is easy—especially with options in metal drapery rods with an adjustable length. Options in modern, stylish metal curtain rods range from white, black, nickel-plated or ones with the look of brass. Hang the curtains with ease with drapery rods that are a cinch to place close to the ceiling as the brackets are assembled underneath.

You can choose complete curtain rod sets in a variety of looks that include everything you need to dress your window except the curtain. Curtain rod sets include a rod, finials, wall brackets, a rod holder and a connector for additional rods that open up endless possibilities for other additions.

Or select any individual piece you need. For customization, you can swap out the decorative finials placed at the end of curtain rods to apply your specific style. Select curtain hooks or curtain rings with clips or hooks to nicely hang specific types of curtains in a stylish way. Choose a double or triple curtain rod solution to create different looks around your windows such as light-filtering curtains underneath heavier blackout drapes. Find wall/ceiling brackets whose curtain rod holder position can be adjusted, allowing curtains to be hung either close to the window or further out. Add extra curtain rods holders to create a double- or triple-layer curtain solution. Meanwhile you can reign in drapes with the neat effect of steel tiebacks.

How to measure curtain rods to fit your windows

Start by measuring the width of your window at the top edge, from outer frame to outer frame. Continue by adding at least four inches on either side. Then move these positions upwards another 4 inches. This position is considered by many to be the recommended minimum measurement, no matter what kind of curtains, rods or rails you have.

With those perfectly measured pencil markings around your windows, it’s time to get creative. The way you use your curtains to frame your window can affect your entire interior. For example, you can try moving your pencil marks outwards a few inches, both in width and height. If you then hang your curtains on the side of the window, while making sure they cover the frames, it will create an illusion that makes your window appear bigger. Much in the same way, placing the pole too close to your window's top edge will make the window appear smaller.

The height and width of the pole's placement will of course decide the measurements of your curtains as well. The longer the rod, the more fabric you’ll need. That goes for the height too. Therefore, make sure your curtain rod can handle the weight of your curtains. If they’re too heavy, you might need extra brackets to support it all.

Frequently asked questions about curtain rods

What is a telescopic or extendable curtain rod?

These are curtain rods whose length is adjustable.

How much bigger should a curtain rod be than the window?

To go beyond the window frame and prevent light from sneaking through, curtain rods should extend beyond each side of the window by about 4 inches.

Can you hang curtain rods without drilling holes?

No. Select screws and any other fasteners you may need that is appropriate for a given wall or ceiling material.

How to hang curtains without a rod?

Absent the application of arcane powers of the occult that is neither recommended or encouraged, ornamental curtain rods remain the best way to strike a pleasing aesthetic balance while serving the functional role of holding drapes or curtains in place.