When shopping for home renovation hardware, curtain rods are the most overlooked part of window decor.
Choosing the right curtain rod size is as crucial as choosing a curtain. Whether you’re styling your kitchen or bathroom or renovating your entire house, selecting the right curtain rod size is imperative for effective window treatments.
In this guide, we’ll share with you the standard sizes of curtain rods, how to measure the correct curtain rod size, and the proper way to install curtain rods to make your window treatments appealing and functional.
Curtain Rod Sizes Explained
Curtain rods are categorized into four different types, each with varying lengths. Each class has a minimum and maximum length, making it easier to adjust the rod length according to the window size.
1. 28-48 Inches
This curtain rod size is suitable for windows up to 36 inches wide. These rods are fit for small windows like the ones installed in the bathroom or laundry area.
This standard rod size is available in thicknesses ranging from 1 inch to 3 inches, but the most used curtain rod diameter allows you to choose according to the curtain’s weight.
2. 48-84 Inches
Typically, the standard window size is compatible with this curtain rod size. The average room window width ranges between 24 to 48 inches, and they are usually installed in pairs, making the 48 to 84 inches curtain rod size the perfect choice.
Double-hung windows and picture windows are compatible with this rod size.
3. 66-120 Inches
Whether you have French doors, patio glass doors, or large windows up to 108 inches, picking a 60 to 120 inches curtain rod is the best option. These curtain rods have a large diameter to improve sturdiness and ensure they can hold heavy fabric drapes and curtains.
4. 120-170 Inches
It’s the most extensive standard curtain rod size you’ll find. They can cover a fabric wall, large picture windows, or a window frame up to 158 inches.
These long yet adjustable rods need supporting brackets to prevent bowing from the weight of your newly bought blackout curtains or curtains with heavier fabrics.
5. More Than 170 Inches
Although curtain rods of more than 170 inches are not available, you can go the DIY route and create a variety of lengths by attaching multiple curtain rods together.
You will need additional support brackets and wall anchors to support these extra-long rods.
Different Rod Styles
Several other curtain rod sizes include elements more than the rod’s width and length. Here’s a quick overview of these curtain rods.
1. Single Rods
The most common choice is installed on the top of the window frame, and can ideally hold lightweight curtain fabric like silk, cotton, and linen. These types of rods range in length between 28 to 170 inches.
2. Double Rods
These curtain rods are explicitly installed to use two sets of curtains. One rod is typically used for blackout curtains, whereas the second holds sheer fabrics.
Double rods are more expansive than single rods and can support heavier drapes or curtains.
3, Traverse Rods
These rods are ideal for glass patio doors and large windows requiring curtain coverage. Clips or carriers are attached to the curtain that slides on these rods when opening and closing them.
4. Wrapped Rods
Wrapped rods curve around the sides of your window, reducing the amount of light entering through. The curtains can completely block the sun when closed to each edge of the rod.
5. Tension Rods
This rod style uses a spring tensioner to secure the rod instead of wall brackets. Tension rods are installed from the inside of a window frame and have a smaller size than conventional single rods.
These rods are an excellent choice for small spaces.
6. Smart Rods
Smart rods are similar to tension rods but have decorative and extending ends, giving the illusion of a long curtain rod.
Whether you’re purchasing a tension or smart rod, buy a rod with extra inches than your window frame length. Their lengths fall between the range of 22 to 90 inches.
Step-by-Step Guide: How To Measure Curtain Rod Size
We’ve divided the process into four easy steps so you always hit the correct size during window treatments.
Step 1: Measuring The Window
You can either measure the window frame to frame or casing to casing.
Use a tape measure for accurate measurements. With a tape measure, you can easily calculate the size precisely up to 1/16th of an inch. Make a list of measurements and label each window when working on multiple window treatments.
Step 2: Curtain Rod Length
The optimal length of a curtain rod can be determined using two simple formulas. You can either increase the recorded window length by 20% or add six inches to each side of the window. The result will be the ideal rod length you need for the project.
Step 3: Marking The Drilling Points
Using a pencil, mark the wall area above the window where you plan to install the curtain. Use a level to ensure you’re marking the right spot.
Step 4: Finding The Right Rod Style
The final step is to find the right type of curtain rod to fulfill your requirements. Here’s a checklist of some factors you must consider before purchasing.
- The curtain material and its weight.
- The availability of adequate space between the ceiling and window frame.
- The width of the rod is required to hold the curtains securely.
- Installation of brackets if needed.
- Aesthetic appeal.
Installing A Curtain Rod
You’ve already determined the rod’s placement and marked the wall where you will install the wall anchors. Ideally, there should be at least four to six inches of space between the rod and the window frame.
1. Installing Brackets
Depending on the rod length, its weight, and the added curtain weight, additional wall brackets must be attached according to the requirements. Here’s a quick rule of thumb for several curtain sizes.
- Small curtain rod sizes up to 48 inches don’t require bracket support.
- Curtain rod lengths up to 60 inches need at least a single bracket.
- Long curtain rods within the 90-inch range need two bracket supports.
- Extra long curtain rods up to 170 inches need four or more supports to ensure a sturdy installation.
You’ll need a drill, screwdriver, screws, wall anchors, brackets, level, and a hammer to install brackets. Simply drill through the marked points, place the small end of the wall anchor in place, and gently tap it with a hammer. When the anchors are in place, use screws to fix them securely.
2. Stacking Of Curtain Material
No matter what size, curtain rods need to be placed in a position where both ends extend equally to each side of the window. Ideally, the curtain rods need to extend at least four inches from each side of the window frame.
Doing this allows the curtains to stack up nicely on each side, providing a complete view from the window. Purchasing a short curtain rod will only obstruct the view and block natural light.
FAQs
Now that we’ve covered information about standard curtain rod sizes and the right way to measure and install rods, let’s answer some common questions about curtain rod sizes.
1. Should Curtains Touch The Floor?
It depends on the type of curtains you’re using. Some fabrics look aesthetically pleasing when floating above the ground, whereas other heavy fabric materials can be set low, just half inches above the floor.
Leaving a couple of inches ensures you can easily clean, vacuum, and mop without tying up the curtains.
2. Is It Possible To Purchase a Customizable Size?
Several manufacturers can provide customized curtain rods with specific lengths, diameters, and styles. Still, the standard sizes cater to a wide range of window frame sizes, rarely requiring a customized curtain rod size.
Final Thoughts
It’s easy to determine the exact rod size suitable for a window treatment. You’re all set to add four to six inches of rod length on each side of the window frame. Using a measuring tape, level, and safety gear ensures fruitful results.
It’s not necessary to precisely follow the exact information we provided. For example, you can opt for longer curtains or install the curtain rod above the window frame more than six inches as long as it allows for the style you seek.
If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to comment, as we’ll be happy to assist you in the best manner possible. With the right approach and information, you’ll pick the standard curtain sizes without a hitch.