How to Add a Curtain Rod

Curtain rods are the first step in beautifying your home decor with window treatments. There are different styles of rods with different installation methods, but a traditional, standard curtain rod can be installed by using two brackets screwed into the wall. Experiment with different depths and use one or more rods to layer draperies.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Curtain rod
• 2 curtain brackets
• 4 screws, 1 1/2-inch
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Screwdriver

1. Remove any existing draperies and curtain rods. Take down the rod with the curtains still on it and lay it across a table or over a chair for safekeeping while you add another curtain rod.

2. Decide where you want to place the new curtain rod. The brackets for the rod must be installed above or below any existing brackets to ensure proper clearance.

3. Use a ruler to measure a distance of 2 inches above or below the existing curtain brackets on the left and right of the window. Mark the spots using a pencil.

4. Take one new bracket and line up the bottom with the pencil mark on the left side of the window. Use the pencil to mark the two holes in the bracket for the screws. Repeat on the right side.

5. Align one curtain bracket with the marked screw holes. Install two 1 1/2-inch screws with the screwdriver, tightening each until the bracket is flush with the wall. Repeat on the opposite side with the second bracket.

6. Put curtains on the new rod. Hold the curtain rod at a 45-degree angle, facing away from you, and line up the small holes at the ends so the small spikes in the curtain rods go through them. Lower the curtain rod until it hangs on the brackets.

Tips & Warnings

• When adding a curtain rod, make sure it is the same width as the existing rod.
• Adding curtain rods to a window allows for layered window treatments.

References

• Lowe's: Installing Rods & Hardware