Disclaimer:
Hardware should always be installed by a competent professional with a working knowledge of interior wall types and fasteners. Do not attempt to install any hardware unless you know how to safely use the tools required and have a good understanding of what you are doing. The following instructions are basic guidelines for qualified installers and should be read in full before beginning your job.
Basic tools include:
Safety glasses, ladder, laser level, tape measure, pencil, cordless screwdriver or drill/screwdriver with 4" to 6" extension bit holder (note importance of this item, installation kit required), hammer, 1/8th drill bit.
How to install/hang a double curtain rod:
- To avoid marking the wall, stick some paper on the wall where the double curtain rod brackets will be attached. You can remove these protective sheets before tightening the bracket screws.
- If you plan to use the ends of the double rod to stack your curtains, it's generally best to place the brackets near the ends of the curtain rod; For example, if your double curtain rod is 120″ long, you can center your brackets at 119″.
- Hold up a double curtain rod and make sure it's tall enough for the curtains to cover the top of the window. A few inches higher than the top of the window may look better and block more light. Use a pencil to mark the location of the bottom screw hole on the paper and place the double curtain rod assembly. Drill a hole in the wall deep enough for the screw to go directly into the wall.
- Hold the double curtain rod bracket with one hand at a slight angle so you can easily insert the screw without interfering with the bracket arm, and drive the bottom screw into the wall. Align the double curtain rod assembly once it is against the wall, then install the top screw. If the screws aren't tight, you may not have hit a proper bolt or hit the backrest. If you are wall mounting wrought iron double curtain rods or other fixings you will need wall anchors (see below).
- Attach the finials to one of the curtain rods and insert one end of the rod into the bracket you just installed. While holding the curtain rod and the other double curtain rod bracket together, place the spirit level (magnetic) on top of the curtain rod and lift so that the curtain rod is level. When the bar is level, repeat steps 3 and 4.
- Remove an end piece, slide the rings onto the curtain rod, drop the curtain rod into the mounting brackets, repeat the process for the other curtain rod (clear rod), then hook the curtains onto the ring grommets. Step back, pat yourself on the back and admire the quality and beauty of your wrought iron curtain rods, made especially for you by Paso Robles Ironworks.
How to install an extra long double curtain rod:
If installing an extra long double curtain rod with a center connector and center bracket, mark the center of the window and install, exactly as above, one end at a time. This means temporarily installing both end pieces on one of the double bar sections and mounting that first half as if it were a separate double bar. Then, using the same half section with end pieces installed, continue to step 3 and install the third bracket. You can now assemble the entire double curtain rod and use a helper to position the rod. Install the clear rod last after everything else is done.
Use:Whenever you connect a rebar at a corner, angle or straight section, it is very important to insert screws into both sides of the connector to prevent the rebar from slipping and falling. Some bars are pre-drilled. Using the included self-drilling screws, drive them through the rod and into the connector with your drill or screw gun to keep the rod from loosening. We do not pre-drill the connector shoes as it would be very difficult to align the holes during installation. The self-drilling screws easily penetrate the connector sleeve with slow speed or your screwdriver and a little pressure, preferably on the ground on a tarpaulin or cardboard.
How to connect curtain rods with an inside connector:
Slide the connector halfway into one side of the curtain rod (you may need to tap it with a wooden block). Insert a self-drilling set screw through the pilot hole and into the connector to hold it in place. Repeat for the other half of the curtain rod to connect the rod as one piece. We do not pre-drill the connector shoes as it would be very difficult to align the holes during installation. The self-drilling screws easily penetrate the connector sleeve with slow speed or your screwdriver and a little pressure, preferably on the ground on a tarpaulin or cardboard.
To install wrought iron finials:
Slide the end piece onto the end of the pole (you may have to hit it with a wooden block). Insert the self-drilling set screw through the pilot hole and into the end piece.
Tips:Plan ahead so any set screws you install can be turned to the back of the bar where they won't be visible. Don't worry if the rod doesn't have pre-drilled holes where you need them, the self-drilling screws go through the rod and the connector or end piece.
The following are basic instructions that come with most wing anchors:
- Determine the thickness of your drywall (usually 1/2″ or 5/8″). You can remove a switch plate to measure the edge of your drywall, or use bent wire in one of the holes you created for the mounting brackets. We recommend the Toggler brand or comparable "nylon wing anchors" as they will work with the decorative screws we provide and will not fall into the wall like molybdenum bolts when you need to remove the screws to repaint the wall. They are available at most hardware stores.
- Drill the screw hole to 3/8″, bend the wings of the anchor and use a hammer to drive the anchor into the hole until it is flush with the wall surface. Insert the included tool into the anchor and push until the wings "pop" behind the back of the drywall.
- If hardware was not supplied with the anchors a 6d nail may suffice, test it in an anchor before driving it into the wall. Reattach the wrought iron brackets. Do not overtighten the screws. If you overtighten the screws, you may be able to use slightly larger screws (#10 or 12) without swapping out the anchors.
Double deflection rods without center bracket:
These are specific instructions for our "double linkage" without a center support. Please read the basic installation instructions first and skip to the correct section if your bars are longer and include a center support. We'll use "right" and "left" to avoid confusion, but you can install either side first.
- Attach the left mounting bracket to the wall with two #8 x 2″ screws (see the Anchoring section of this guide if you need anchors to your walls).
- Slide the right mounting bracket onto the right end of the rod and secure with a #6 x 1/2″ self-drilling set screw.
- Slide the left end of the pole into the bracket already mounted on the wall, align the pole and mark its position on the wall at the right end.
- Holding the pole in place, attach the right mounting bracket to the wall with two #8 x 2″ screws.
- Attach the rod to the left mounting bracket with a #6 x 1/2″ self-drilling set screw.
Center Mount Double Return Stems:
We'll use "right" and "left" to avoid confusion, but you can install either side first.
- If the middle connector sleeve is not already installed on a section of your idler link, install it first. Slide it halfway onto the straight end of the rod and secure with a #6 x 1/2″ self-drilling screw.
- Attach the left mounting bracket to the wall with two #8 x 2″ screws (see the Anchoring section of this guide if you need anchors to your walls).
- Slide the pole half into the left mounting bracket, hold the middle bracket and pole together as they will be when mounted on the wall. Align the pole and mark the position of the middle bracket on the wall. Then attach the middle bracket to the wall with two #8 x 2″ screws. Now is a good time to put the rings on the bar, half of them will go to the right of the middle bracket after you install the right side.
- Secure the rod in the left end bracket with a #6 x 1/2″ self-drilling set screw. You should now have the bar mounted semi-securely to the wall.
- Slide the right mounting bracket onto the post and secure with a #6 x 1/2″ self-drilling screw. Attach the right half of the bar to the left half of the center bar and secure the bar to the center connector sleeve with a #6 x 1/2″ self-drilling screw.
- Slide half of the rings to the right of the center support. Reattach the pole to the middle bracket and level the right end of the pole, mark the position of the right mounting bracket on the wall. Attach the right mounting bracket to the wall with two #8 x 2″ screws.
FAQs
What is the proper placement of curtain rods? ›
Make a mark about four inches above your window for mounting hardware. This is a traditional height, though you can cheat an inch or so, either way, depending on the height of your ceiling and the length of your finished curtains.
Do you need to predrill holes for curtain rods? ›Pre-drill a hole into the wall just deep enough to make it easy to drive the screw straight into the wall. Holding the curtain rod mount in one hand at a slight angle so you can easily drive the screw in without interference from the arm of the mount, drive the bottom screw into the wall.
How far past window should curtain rod go? ›The standard distance from the window casing to the end of the curtain rod (excluding finials) on each side of the window should be 4 to 10 inches. As a general rule, drapes will be open during the day, so make sure the curtain rod extends at least four inches on each side of the window's inside frame.
How far should curtain rod extend past bracket? ›Curtain rods should extend at least 3 to 6 inches past the window frame. Just as hanging curtains above the window frame makes the window appear taller, Bob Vila writes that extending the curtain rod past the window frame makes the window appear wider.
How much space should be on each side of a curtain rod? ›The rod itself should be 8 to 12 inches longer than the window's width, which allows for 4 to 6 inches on either side.
Where should a curtain rod make a room look bigger? ›When you hang your curtain rod higher than the window — almost to the ceiling — the window will look bigger, and the curtains themselves will look much more high-end. But hanging the curtain rod higher than the window requires curtains that are longer than your typical curtain.
What drill is best for curtain rods? ›Drill holes for the bracket screws: Use a 3/32-inch drill bit if the screws will be installed in wall studs; use a ¼-inch drill bit if the screws will be installed into drywall. If you are installing the screws in drywall, you should use plastic anchors.
Do you need a stud finder to hang curtain rods? ›You will need a drill and drill bit, stud finder and level to hang them. If your rods or curtains are particularly heavy — or if you have to secure them to drywall — you may want wall anchors as well. You'll also need a tape measure, pencil, ladder and, of course, your curtains.
Do curtains have to touch the floor? ›So should curtains touch the floor? The short answer is yes... usually. But when making any decision about your window treatments, whether they're drapes, blinds, or shades, it's important to consider every aspect of style and function so you can choose the best option for your windows and your home.
Can you screw a curtain rod into the window frame? ›You can add curtains inside window frames with tension rods that are not mounted onto walls with brackets, screws or nails. There are also brackets that are made for inside mounting.
Can I use a hammer to hang curtain rods? ›
You can use a nail and hammer or you can use a drill with a drill bit. This is also a good way to know if there's a stud behind that wall. If the nail/bit is driven too easily there's no stud. The anchors are made out of plastic material, they're fragile, the Sheetrock is fragile too.
How wide should curtains be for a 72 inch window? ›How wide should curtains be for a 72 inch window? For a 72 inch window, you need curtains with a finished width at least 1.5 times that, but better are those with twice that width and even three times the width for sheers.
Do curtain rods go on trim or wall? ›Generally, hanging curtain brackets on the wall above and outside the window molding looks best; it allows fabric to fall gracefully.
How much wider than window should curtains be? ›A common rule for displaying curtains properly says the curtains finished width should be at least 2 times the width of your window (if not more) to achieve a look of proper fullness. Example: If your window measures 36" wide (window width x 2 = 72"), you need curtains that will give a minimum width of 72".
How long can a curtain rod be without center support? ›However, we recommend using a center bracket at a width of 96 inches adding the bracket at the center will offer additional support and help distribute the weight of the rod and drapery evenly, making it a more secure installation. Over 96 inches, a third rod bracket is required as a center support; this is mandatory!
How many brackets do I need for curtain rod? ›Count how many brackets are included with the curtain rod. As a general rule, there should be at least one bracket for each outside corner of the window, and one bracket in the center. Add more brackets if the expanse between the middle and outer brackets is more than three feet.
How far apart are double curtain rods? ›Double curtain rods are used to give your windows a two-dimensional look; they allow you to combine two different colored curtains or fabric types. Two parallel rods, approximately 2-inches apart, are held in place by special mounting brackets.
What color curtains make the room look bigger? ›Since bright colors are more reflective, the room looks airier and more open because it contains more natural light. Dark colors do just the opposite because they absorb light and make a space look smaller.
What length curtains make a room look bigger? ›For the best results, install the curtain rods high above the windows and keep the rods' length wider than the windows. Add 3 inches beyond the window frame on each side to: Make your windows look larger than they are. Open the curtains completely to allow maximum light penetration.
What colors make a room look bigger and brighter? ›Lighter paint colors like off-whites, light neutrals, pales, and pastels give the illusion of larger, brighter rooms.
What screws to use to hang curtain rods? ›
If the area where you're planning to drill your bracket doesn't have a wall stud, you'll need to use a drywall anchor and a regular screw. Otherwise, the screw alone won't be able to hold your rod and curtain. If your space does have a wall stud, you use a regular screw.
Should curtain rods be thin or thick? ›Keep in mind the weight and material of curtains when choosing a rod. Thin rods are perfect for lightweight sheer curtains, while thick curtain rods (at least one inch thick) are ideal for heavy blackout curtains.
What tools do I need to hang a curtain rod? ›Gather your tools.
To install a curtain rod, you will need a tape measure, stud finder, level, screwdriver, power drill, drill bit, screws, wall anchors, pencil, curtain rod, and curtain rod brackets.
Using a stud finder may seem unnecessary, but it's probably one of the most important steps when it comes to hanging anything substantial on the wall, says Anna Kroesser of Kroesser + Strat Design, LLC. "When you hang something heavy on the wall that isn't on a stud, you risk drilling into sheetrock.
Can I use an anchor instead of a stud? ›You can still install objects on walls — even if there's no stud available. You just need to use drywall anchors. Drywall anchors live up to their namesake by anchoring into drywall panels. You can push them into a pilot hole.
Can Command Strips hold curtain rods? ›Reusing them is as easy as applying a Command™ Refill Strip, so you can take down, move and reuse them again and again! Great for installing curtain rods or hanging wall décor, coats, and bags! Use with rod diameter less than 5/8 in, length less than 48 in, and finial greater than 3/4 in.
Why do my drywall anchors keep pulling out? ›Oversized holes are the number one reason your drywall anchors won't hold. If the hole is too big, the anchor doesn't have the chance to grip the back of the drywall panel. Instead, it will spin freely inside the provided hole.
How do you connect two pairs of curtains? ›Place the curtain panels on top of one another, right sides together. Then pin the vertical edges you unpicked together. If your fabric is quite thick you may opt to clip the two panels together instead. If you're working with patterned panels check that the pattern matches before and after pinning.
Can you add a second rod to a curtain rod? ›Some curtain rod manufacturers sell a curtain rod connector designed to fit inside the rod, allowing you to join two or more matching rods together to create one long piece. These inner tubes screw into place, requiring holes drilled at the ends of the curtain rod pieces to secure the entire structure together.
Can you join 2 Curtain Poles together? ›Connectors are used to join two curtain poles together to create longer lengths. For metal rods a joining piece is available in the corresponding diameter which fits inside the poles. A simple double sided screw is used to join the two wooden rods together and an extra bracket is used to support the join.
How do you join two curtain widths? ›
Full length curtains
To create the fullness, you simply sew one or more widths together. If one and one-half widths are required to make a curtain panel, the half-width is stitched to the outside edge of each full width. If two full widths are required to make a curtain panel, stitch the widths together side by side.
Single curtain rods are a classic choice. However, double curtain rods are growing in popularity because they allow more options for light control and privacy, and unique and expressive decorating. They may not be as simple as single curtain rods, but the end results will be worth it.
What is the benefit of a double curtain rod? ›Although very similar in design to single curtain rods, a double curtain rod allows you to layer more than one drapery panel or curtain for a more enhanced and dramatic look. Most typically, people layer a sheer curtain first and then a regular curtain on top to block out light.