Curtains can change a room in no time. They make it cozier, provide more privacy, or help with darkening. However, when it comes to selection, it usually revolves around color, fabric, or the right length. The curtain rod? It's often chosen only at the very end.
However, it makes a bigger difference than you think. For your curtains to look good and hang securely, the right curtain rod is essential. With the right choice and a little preparation, installation is quite straightforward. In this guide, we will show you what to pay attention to and how to install your curtain rod step by step. In addition to the classic curtain rod, we will also take a look at curtain tracks like our SQUARE – a modern alternative with its own advantages.
01. Why the right curtain rod is more than just an accessory
A curtain rod serves multiple purposes. It reliably supports your curtains, even if they are heavy or floor-length, and simultaneously influences the effect around the window.
A curtain rod made of powder-coated metal in a simple pipe design fits into almost any decor without pushing itself to the forefront. This often makes the difference between “just any curtain rod” and one that simply looks good in the end.
02. Curtain rod or curtain track – what’s the difference?
In addition to the classic curtain rod like theROUND, there are also curtain tracks (also called curtain rails or curtain strips) like our SQUARE. The difference: With a curtain rod, the curtain runs over rings or eyelets on a round rod, while with a track, it runs over gliders in a narrow aluminum strip: The curtain rod for eyelet curtains is reduced, minimalist, and completely without a visible rod.
The curtain track SQUARE is designed for wall mounting and can be extended endlessly via a connecting piece, regardless of how wide your window is. The distance to the wall is adjustable by 95 millimeters, allowing it to adapt to almost any window situation. It is available in two versions: single-track for one curtain or double-track if you want to combine two layers of fabric, for example, a sheer curtain for the day and an opaque one for the night.
Whether a rod or a track suits you better in the end depends mainly on the desired look and the application situation. Both systems reliably support heavy and long curtains.
03. Calculate the right width
The most common mistake: a curtain rod that is too short. The curtain then hangs directly in front of the window opening and unnecessarily blocks a lot of daylight when opened.
A rule of thumb is: The curtain rod should be at least 30 - 40 centimeters wider than the window opening. This way, the curtains can sit to the side of the window and let in as much light as possible. At the same time, a harmonious overall picture is created. So it's better to plan a little wider than to regret it later. This rule of thumb also applies equally to curtain tracks like our SQUARE.
04. Wall or ceiling? Choose the right mounting type
Basically, you have two options.
Wall mounting: The classic for living and bedrooms. It is suitable for most windows and can be mounted easily.
Ceiling mounting: Ideal if there is little space next to the window, for floor-to-ceiling curtains, low ceilings, or if you want to use a curtain rod as a room divider or shower curtain.
Good to know: Our curtain rod ROUND can be mounted on both the wall and the ceiling. Suitable dowels for concrete and hollow walls are already included in the delivery. This allows you to adapt the installation flexibly to your space and the substrate. Our curtain tracks SQUARE are pure wall mounting solutions. The wall distance can be adjusted by 95 millimeters, allowing you to match it exactly to your window situation, including suitable mounting material for wall mounting.
05. Why powder-coated metal?
A high-quality powder-coated curtain rod in matte black is scratch-resistant, durable, and easy to maintain. Therefore, you can use it not only in the living room but also in the bathroom, kitchen, or protected outdoor areas.
Thanks to its robust construction, it reliably supports both light curtains and heavy or floor-length drapes.
Good to know: Our modular system is available in lengths up to 650 centimeters. This makes it suitable for large window fronts or as a room divider. Our curtain track SQUARE is modular, made of robust aluminum, and powder-coated black. It can be extended almost endlessly via a connector piece, in lengths from 75 to 600 centimeters or even beyond by combining several sets – available in single or double rail for two layers of fabric. Thus, it is as weatherproof and easy to care for as our curtain rods, even in the bathroom, kitchen, or on the balcony.
06. Step by step: Install curtain rod
Step 1: Determine width
Measure the window opening and add at least 40 centimeters.
Step 2: Determine installation type
Decide whether you want to attach the curtain rod to the wall or the ceiling.
Step 3: Mark position
Mark the position of the brackets and align them neatly with a level.
Step 4: Choose appropriate dowels
Our curtain rods come with suitable concrete and hollow wall dowels included. Choose the appropriate dowel based on the substrate.
Step 5: Attach brackets
Drill the holes, insert the dowels, and screw in the brackets. Thanks to the concealed screwing, the fasteners will be almost invisible later.
Step 6: Insert curtain rod
First, hem your curtains and then insert the curtain rod. Finally, check once more if everything is secure.
Done! Your new curtain rod is ready for use.
Good to know: The installation of a curtain rail like SQUARE works on the same principle. Mark the brackets on the wall, choose the appropriate dowel (already included), and screw them in. The gliders for your curtains are also included.
The most common mistakes
With a few simple tips, typical mistakes can be easily avoided.
Purchased too short:
The rod was planned without the 40-cm rule. As a result, the curtain covers too much window and unnecessarily blocks light. If this has happened to you, you can simply buy a small set and extend the rods.
Wrong dowel:
Especially with hollow walls, the right fastening material is crucial. But with us, it’s quite simple: We provide you with suitable concrete and hollow wall dowels directly.
Underestimated load capacity:
Heavy or long curtains require a stable construction, not improvisation. From personal experience: Most of our team lives in old Berlin apartments and knows this all too well. High ceilings often mean extra long curtains and therefore more weight. If you also live in an apartment or house with high ceilings, your curtain rod should be designed for that.
Only thought of the wall:
In many rooms, a curtain rod for ceiling mounting is the more practical and visually elegant solution. This is often forgotten. So here’s a reminder: Both are often possible!
Four examples of use
Living room, also with large window front:
The classic wall mounting fits most windows and stylishly showcases curtains or drapes. Thanks to the modular system of our curtain rod ROUND, even larger widths of up to 650 centimeters are no problem.
In the bathroom:
Thanks to the robust powder coating, the curtain rod is also suitable as a shower curtain rod. Moisture cannot harm it.
Room divider or bed curtain:
A curtain rod can do more than just beautify windows. Especially in studio apartments, a curtain can easily separate the sleeping area. Or you can transform your bed into a cozy four-poster bed with just a few adjustments.
Flexibly design day and night:
With the double-trackcurtain rail SQUARE double track, you can combine two curtains at one window – for example, a transparent one for daytime and an opaque one for nighttime. This way, your home adapts to every time of day.
Your curtain rod, your style
A curtain rod is quickly mounted and makes more of a difference in everyday life than you might think. At the latest, when you visit friends who live without any curtains, you realize how much coziness curtains actually bring to a room.
Discover our curtain rod ROUND, the all-rounder for your curtains. →
Looking for an alternative to the classic rod? Then take a look at our curtain rail SQUARE single track or as a curtain rail double track.
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