How to Choose Curtain Rods & Tracks for Every Room
Table of Contents
- 1 What are track and curtain rods used for?
- 2 Different types of rails
- 3 How to install a rail?
- 4 What kind of curtain rod should you choose for a room?
- 5 Rod type depending on location
- 6 Should we buy the whole set or just the rod?
- 7 Rod decoration type
- 8 Curtain rod materials and measurements
- 9 Types of curtain rods
- 10 The length of your bar
- 11 Now, all that's left is to install the rod.
Curtain rods or tracks are essential accessories to display curtains in every room of the house beautifully. Their function is not only to hold the curtains but also to help them open and close effortlessly. Many people think that choosing a curtain rod or rail is very easy. But in fact, it cannot be very easy because the type of window, the weight, and the design of the curtains in each room are different. Along with this, the decoration of the room is also different. Therefore, to choose the right rod, it is important to consider size, material, design, and functionality.
Choosing the right curtain rod or track can significantly impact the functionality of your windows and the aesthetics of your room. They support not only hanging curtains but also determine how well they glide, how durable they are, and how well they complement the room’s style.
In this guide, we’ll discuss how to choose the right curtain rod or track for your room so that your curtains not only look great but also work effectively.
What are track and curtain rods used for?
Tracks are metal or PVC guides mounted to the ceiling. They allow curtains to be hung using hooks on semi-concealed sliders, making them easy to open and close every day. They are ideal for hanging two center-opening curtains, a curtain that folds to one side, or even for adding privacy by dividing space.
Curtain rods are rods designed for small or lightweight curtains, which are ideal for enhancing the look of a curtain. They can be installed in walls or window frames and come in a variety of shapes, such as round or flat, and in materials such as plastic, wood, or metal.
Different types of rails
When choosing a type of curtain rail, two things to consider are functionality and decoration (aesthetics).
Functional rails often come in simple, minimal designs that blend easily with any home decor. They are made of durable materials such as aluminum or stainless steel.
Decorative rails, on the other hand, balance function and design. They are stylish and available in a variety of decor themes.
Below are some popular rail types:
- Corded rail (for light curtains): The rail can be operated by pulling a cord along one side. It is generally suitable for light fabrics.
- Strong corded rail for heavy curtains: Can handle more weight and move smoothly when pulled.
- Manual fixed rail (without cord): Must be moved by hand. Good for general use.
- Velcro rail (for bando): A flexible type of rail that can be used on curves or bent areas.
- Perfect Wave Rail: This creates a special type of wave shape that is very attractive to look at.
- Multiple track rails (up to 4): This is used when you want to hang multiple curtains in the same place, such as sheer and blackout curtains.
- Motorized rails: These can be controlled by remote or app, and they are ideal for the modern smart home.
- Aluminum rail: lightweight but durable, usable for many years.
- Rail accessories: such as carriers, stoppers, and brackets make the rail stable and effective.
How to install a rail?
If the railing is to be placed in front of a surprise box, we will need to use brackets to keep it slightly away from the wall. First, we need to mark the exact places where the brackets will be placed with a pencil. The length of the rail determines the number of brackets required. If the length of the rail is more than 2 meters, then at least three brackets should be placed, two of which will be at the two ends and one in the middle. If the rail is 2.5 to 3 meters long, it is best to install four brackets. Drill holes at the marked locations, insert anchors and screw the rail to the brackets. Finally, the hooks are inserted into the holes in the curtain and attached to the track one by one.
What kind of curtain rod should you choose for a room?
Curtains are not just for the living room or bedroom; they are also used in the dining room, children’s room, office, kitchen, and even bathroom. However, the needs of each room are different.
For example, bathrooms have high humidity, so wooden rods can easily damage them. For children’s rooms, it is better to choose rods with cartoons or designs that children like, as this will make the room look fun and make the children happy.
In summary, the best decision is to choose the appropriate curtain rod for each room’s use, environment, and decor.
Rod type depending on location
Choose your curtain rod based on your window’s location and shape. Rods are usually mounted on the wall or ceiling. However, which one you choose depends on the following aspects:
- Rod on the wall: If there is enough space above the window, the easiest and most popular solution is to fit a single rod or double rod to the wall. This is suitable for almost all rooms.
- Ceiling Mounted Rod: If you have limited space above the window or if the window goes all the way to the ceiling, you should use a ceiling-mounted rod. This helps extend the curtains to the floor and makes the room appear taller.
Corner windows or enclosed areas: If the window is in the corner of the room or spans multiple walls, you should choose a flexible or special rod designed for corners.
Should we buy the whole set or just the rod?
Many people buy just the curtain rod separately. Others want to get everything they need to hang curtains together. For them, complete rod sets are available in the market, which include the rod, brackets, screws for mounting on the wall, and beautifully designed caps on both sides.
These kits are quite convenient because you don’t have to look for anything separately. Everything you need to fit your room is available in one package. From a decorative point of view, the end caps on the rods also enhance the beauty of the room.
Rod decoration type
We need to understand that the curtain rod is not just a hanging item but an important decorative element. Therefore, it needs to be given due importance. Rod designs are so diverse these days that they can fit beautifully with any house style or fashion.
Once upon a time, it was thought that rods only fit into traditional homes. But today’s rods match any style, whether modern, minimalist, or classic.
The rod’s style must match the other wooden or metal elements in the room (e.g., doorknobs, window frames, furniture handles). This will make the room look more tidy, harmonious, and to your liking.
Nowadays, rods are also available in the market in different categories according to different popular decoration styles. We will discuss them below.
Design
This type of rod design is usually ideal for a modern, unfussy home. It is characterized by simple lines and neutral colors such as white, gray, or black. If you don’t want anything flashy and want to keep a calm, tidy feel to your home decor, then this design is perfect for you.
Nature
Natural elements inspire this design, which usually features rounded shapes, wood-like finishes, and the use of natural materials. If you want to bring a calm, natural atmosphere to your home decor, this type of rod design is the perfect choice.
Rural beauty
This style is reminiscent of the heritage and beauty of a village home. It is a vintage and rustic design where authentic and often handmade accessories are used. Such curtain rods and accessories usually bring a lot of personality and warmth to the house’s decor.
Essential
This style is very simple and minimal, and it never gets old. Its design will remain the same for a long time. The best part is that it easily blends with any room decor, so it is a great choice for all rooms.
Neoclassical
This style is a beautiful blend of classic and modern design. The neoclassical style is perfect for those who want an elegant and sophisticated look in their home.
Curtain rod materials and measurements
In terms of materials:
Wood
Many love wood for its natural warmth and cozy presence. It is very suitable for classic-style rooms. Wooden rods are available in different colors and tones, such as light oak, dark walnut, or the reddish shade of cherry. These colors vary depending on the source of the wood. This allows you to easily match the rods with furniture or other wooden materials in the room.
Metal rod
These types of rods are usually made of steel, iron, or other metals. If your curtains are heavy or the length of the rod is more than 2 meters, then it is better to use metal rods, as they are much stronger and more durable. In terms of appearance, metal rods are also great for modern and industrial-style homes. Simple design, shiny or matte finish, everything makes metal rods perfect for home decoration.
Size
First, measure your window’s width to find the curtain rod of the right size. Then, add at least 15 cm extra on each side of the window so that the curtain covers the entire window and looks better. Most rods have some length adjustment. However, the rod is longer than 2 meters. In that case, you should install an additional bracket not only on both sides but also in the middle. This will keep the rod stable and reduce the risk of bending.
Diameter
When choosing the diameter of the rod, you can usually choose any thickness. However, you may want to hang heavy and thick curtains. In that case, it is better to choose a thicker rod not only to handle the weight of the curtains but also to enhance the beauty of the room. A thicker rod is also visually appealing and brings balance to the decor of the room.
On the other hand, if you are using light or sheer curtains, a thin rod will suffice. This provides a good balance between the rod and the curtain and makes the whole setup look more modern.
Finally, the rod, as well as the terminals and other accessories at the end of the rod, are equally important, as they make your installation complete and perfect.
Types of curtain rods
Extendable bar
They are practical for adjusting the length as needed and are ideal for windows of different sizes. Make sure the adjustment system is sturdy so that they do not slip under the weight of the curtains.
Fixed bar
They offer greater durability and are also aesthetically pleasing as they have no visible adjustment mechanisms. They are suitable for standard-sized windows and heavy curtains.
Double bar
You can hang two layers of curtains, one light and one heavy, to control light and privacy more effectively. They are ideal for bedrooms and living rooms.
The length of your bar
In case you didn’t know, all professionals recommend that curtain rods be at least 15-20 cm long on each side. This way, the curtain hides the window frame when open and lets in as much natural light as possible.
If your windows are a certain size and large, you have two options:
- One is a telescopic rod, which can be extended and adapted as needed.
- The other is to order a completely custom rod that will fit your window perfectly. Still, this option can be expensive.
For long and heavy curtains, simply supporting them at both ends may not be enough. Therefore, it is recommended that additional support brackets be used to ensure that the rod remains straight and can properly support the weight.
Now, all that's left is to install the rod.
Making your windows attractive with beautiful curtains is actually very easy. You can do it in just a few steps.
And if you don’t want to do the hassle yourself, Al Baraka Curtains will make it easier for you. We will professionally install the curtain rods and tracks of your choice. Give our service a try!
