How to Hang Curtains Outdoors

Outdoor curtains come in many colors, patterns and fabrics and can be used to soften the look of an outdoor area or to protect those inside the curtained area from mosquitoes, other insects and overly curious neighbors. They also add ambiance and, if hung on the inside of a front porch, curb appeal. Depending on how they are hung, outdoor curtains can be moved out of the way when you don't need them. They are also cheaper than blinds or shades.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Measuring tape
• Outdoor curtains
• Tension rods
• Tension rod joiners, if needed
• Peel and stick Velcro
• Staple gun
• Hook-and-eye screws
• Screwdriver/power drill

Hanging Curtains with Rods and Velcro

1. Choose outdoor curtains wide enough so the total width is one-and-a-half times as wide as the width of the enclosure. This ensures that there will be enough fabric to be attractively pulled back when the curtains are open.

2. Thread tension rods through the fabric pocket or tabs at the top of your curtains. Attach two or more rods with joiners for longer expanses.

3. Snap tension rods into place between walls or porch beams. No hardware is needed as the springs inside the rods should hold the rods in place.

4. Attach outdoor curtains using Velcro by purchasing curtains with a loop-sided Velcro strip double-stitched to the top of the curtain.

5. Peel and stick a hook-sided Velcro to the (cleaned) surface from which you wish your outdoor curtains to hang (from a header beam, for example).

6. Reinforce the adhesive Velcro with a staple gun every foot or so.

7. Press the top of the curtain (with the loop-sided Velcro strip) to the hook-sided Velcro strip on your hanging surface.

8. Reinforce the top corners with curtain hooks and eye screws if your curtain material is heavy.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are using rings attached to the top of your curtain (like some shower curtains), thread the curtain rod through the rings unless the rings can be snapped open and attached to the rod after the rod has been hung.

References

• Outdoor Curtains Make Great Porch Enclosures
• Outdoor Curtains Measuring Guide
• How do Outdoor Curtains Install and Operate?

Resources

• Outdoor Curtains at Bed, Bath and Beyond
• Custom-made Outdoor Curtains