How to Install L Curtain Rod Brackets

Valances frame your window and make them stand out; they are the "icing on the cake" for your window treatments. One method used to mount a valance over a window uses L-shaped curtain rod brackets, or L-brackets as they are known, to stabilize and connect a valance on a valance board to a wall. Mounting L-brackets takes some basic tools and an extra pair of hands, but is worth the effort when you are able to proudly display your new window valances.

Things You'll Need

• Step ladder
• Stud finder
• Level
• Pencil
• Tape measure
• Plastic drywall anchors
• Power drill
• 2 L-brackets
• Wood screws
• 1 custom or manufactured valance mounted on a valance board
• Assistant or helper
• Painter's mask

Instructions

1. Set up your step ladder so you or your assistant can reach the top of your windows without straining.

2. Determine where you want to place your valances. Measure the tops of your windows using your tape measure and draw an "x" lightly on the two spots where you want the screws drilled using a sharp pencil. The marks must be equidistant from each other to ensure the valance is hung uniformly over your window top. They must also be level. Level them out before you complete the next steps.

3. Drill holes on the "x" spots with your power drill. Use a drill bit the same size as your plastic drywall anchors so they will fit into the holes snugly. Push the anchors into the drilled holes.

4. Hold the L-brackets up, one at a time, lining up their holes with the anchor holes in the drywall. Screw the L-bracket to the wall using a wood screw. Repeat this process for the second L-bracket.

5. Ask your assistant to help hold up the valance while you complete installing the valance board. Screw the L-bracket to the valance using a short wood screw. Repeat this process for the second L-bracket, and your work is finished.

Tips & Warnings

• According to Factory Direct Drapes.com, "valance end brackets should be mounted just outside of the rod brackets; (i.e. 1"-2" one to two inches) on each side. The valance rod itself should be mounted at the same height as the drape rod." This is good to keep in mind when measuring and marking the spots where you want to attach your L-brackets.

• If you are sensitive to drywall dust, wear a painter's mask while you are drilling anchor holes.

• Take your time and if you make a mistake, you can always putty the holes in the drywall, touch-up the paint and start again.

• Exercise caution when using a step ladder. Ask your assistant to spot for you and hold on to the ladder while you work.

References

• Factory Direct Drapes: Tips on where to hang valances