How to Use Tension Rods to Hang Curtains

Lightweight curtains on tension rod

Tension curtain rods are an alternative way to hang curtains on windows or shower curtains when you can't use standard rods that have to be mounted with screws. Some rental agreements do not allow the attachment of anything that requires putting holes in the wall or window frame. Tension rods are also used extensively for installing shower curtains on tiled or fiberglass shower enclosures. Most people are intimidated by drilling holes in ceramic tile to install a shower curtain.

Things You'll Need

• Tension curtain rod
• Step ladder
• Tape measure
• Screwdriver (if using square or oval rods)

Instructions

1. 

   Measure the width of the window and purchase the tension curtain rod of your choice. Tension rods come in lengths that are adjustable by widening the tension rod to the width desired. An example is a window or opening that measures 36 inches in width. The rod purchased will be adjustable from 28 inches to 48 inches. Tension rods are available in round, oval and square types.

2. 

   Adjust round tension rods to the desired width by holding the narrow part of the rod and turning the larger section to the right (clockwise) to increase the width and the opposite direction to shorten the width. Adjust the rod until it is slightly over the width needed (at least 1 inch).

3. 

   Loosen the screw located on the back side of oval or square tension rods to adjust to the width required for the window. Retighten the screw, and then the tension rod is ready to install the curtains on it.

4. Thread the curtains onto the adjusted rod. Hold the rod with one hand on each side of the rod and push toward the center to depress the tension spring. Place the rod into the opening and release your hands. Check to be sure the tension is tight enough to hold the rod in place and support the weight of the curtains. If the rod tends to slide out of position, adjust the tension, making the rod longer, using the above methods and reinstall.

Tips & Warnings

• Tension rods are great for college dorm rooms.

• Tension rods work best with light to medium weight curtains. It may prove difficult to hold the rod in place with heavyweight curtains.

References

• Additional source for tension curtain rods

Resources

• Source for tension curtain rods