Tips on Installing Curtain Rods
Installing curtain rods can be tricky, particularly for rookies. Much cheaper than hiring a professional, you can do it yourself with a little know-how of tools and a measuring tape. Grab a helper to hold one side while you work on the other. Some types of curtain rods are easier to install than others, due to moving parts and pieces. Does this Spark an idea?
Before You Buy
If there are no fixtures or holes whatsoever on the window areas, decide whether the hardware for the type of curtain rod you like can be used in this setting. Heavy drapes require sturdy rods and fixtures. Determine which types of screws or nails will work on the surface and how many you need. For a rental unit, use spring rods or magnetic ones to avoid making holes that must be patched when you move out.
Preparation
Have a clear-cut plan of what you are going to do before you start. Determine exactly what is going where and lay it out on the floor in a rough configuration. Gather all necessary materials, including tools, drills and fasteners. Check the new hardware package for every piece and part. Count the screws and rings.
Use a metal measuring tape to confirm placement of each mounting piece before drilling or attaching. Cloth or plastic tapes bend and stretch. Carefully mark the points onto the wall in light pencil. When using a drill, put plastic sheeting down on the floor for easy clean-up. Don't forget to wear safety goggles.
Considerations
When rods are too short to cover the window, buy an extender with the same circumference as the original rods marked on the package. Pull the rod apart, insert the extender between the two existing pieces and push the assembly back together as close as possible to the necessary width.
If there is no extender piece available for your model, buy an extra rod and create your own. Cut off the bent ends with a hacksaw. File away rough edges and open ends slightly with pliers, so the fabricated piece will join between the other two.
For a very long rod that sags in the middle, use an open-ended hook screw in the center of the wall for support.
Check installation diagrams on the package before you attach it to the wall, making sure the hardware is right-side up.
Inserting Rods
In most cases, it is easier to put the curtains on before hanging up the rod simply because of height and weight issues. Lay out the order of the curtain pieces on a table or floor before you begin. Put all seams facing down.
When the rod end is not round and smooth, wrap it two or three times in masking tape to prevent tearing the curtain material.
Let one side of the rod rest on the ground, inserting the curtains all from one end. Push them across as you progress or have a helper speed up the process by pulling from the other end as they slide on.
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