How to Choose and Hang Window Curtains

With a little planning, new curtains can be a great addition to your home and help transform your decor. Learn how to choose and hang window curtains in this Lowe’s video:

Before you buy your curtains, snap a photo of your windows. Measure at three different places and make a sketch, marking the largest measurement. Also, mark nearby vents, light switches and electrical outlets as you won’t want to cover them.

The size of your curtains makes a difference in the room’s decor, and there are a variety of sizes available.

63″ curtains usually sit at or just below the sill.
84″ curtains sit at or just above the floor.
95″ curtains can be pooled on the floor for a regal appearance.

You may need longer curtains if you plan on mounting the rod near the ceiling. For width, both curtains combined should be at least twice the width of the window and trim.

Along with curtain size, the rod size and placement can also make a difference. For length, rods that extend 2-3 inches beyond the frame give a traditional look, allowing the curtains to partially cover the window when open. Extending the rod 10-15 inches beyond the trim reveals the entire window, making it look wider. Don’t forget about the finials; check the package to see if they’re included in the total rod length. Also consider that with layered curtains, the double rod brackets might extend farther from the wall.

So where do you hang the rod? You can hang on or just above the frame for a flush appearance. Go six inches above the frame for a standard look, or hang near the ceiling with long drapes to make the room look taller. When you’re figuring the total height for your curtain and rod placement, remember to account for how the curtain hangs on the rod, hooks, rings, tabs, grommets or pockets.

To install the curtain rod, measure and mark the bracket locations on the wall. Cover old bracket holes with spackling compound and touch up with paint. Double check the placement by holding the rod and brackets in place. Have someone help you and check for level. If your marks aren’t lined up with studs, install wall anchors. Use anchors rated for the weight of the curtains. Drill a pilot hole, install the anchor, then set the bracket and drive in the screws. Rods wider than four feet will need a center support to prevent curtains from sagging. Take off the finials and install the rod. Steam or iron the curtains before hanging them. Slide the curtain onto the rod and tighten the set screws. Finish up by installing the finials.