Measuring Your Window for Curtain Rods

Measure the width of your window to the framed edges plus 6-18 inches (on average 8″ will work), leaving room for the drapes to fully open to expose the window beneath. Take into consideration if the rod will be inside mounted, trim mounted, or wall mounted.

When measuring, always use a steel tape measure, measuring to the nearest 1/8th. Accuracy counts! Double check your measurements to be sure you have precisely what is needed for each opening door or window.

According to Shane Inman, Senior Principal interior designer of the Inman Company, most rods require center supports every 30-36

• Panels: drapes and curtains are sold in panels. This is a section that can be used alone or in multiples depending on the fullness desired. Be sure to read the product description to be certain you are aware of how many panels come in a package. Some are sole in singles while others are sold in sets.

• Pleats: This technique is also used to created fullness but is completed with an exact repeat pattern of folds.

• Puddle: Excess fabric pooled onto the floor at the base of the drape. This makes for a very formal look. Puddles can be in excess of 1-10 inches.

• Return: This is the measurement from where the curtain hands from the wall to the rod.

• Ring: This is drapery hardware that slips over the rod or pole that usually has a clip from which to hang the drape.

• Sill: a part of the window trim, it is the ledge of a window where sometimes there is room for plants.

• Stack back or stacking space: The amount of space the curtains occupy when fully opened. This will potentially affect the length of the curtain rod. The stack back for a lined curtain requires a 15 percent addition to the window width. The stack back for a blackout adds an additional 25 percent to the window width. The curtain rod should reflect the stack back measurement.

• Tiebacks: A piece of material, that can be made out of metal, fabric, or rope, that pulls drapes and curtains away from the center of the window for a soft flowing effect.

Questions to Consider

Q – How long should my drapes be?
A – Drapes should go at least 4 inches above your window frame and at a minimum, fall to your floor. To give the illusion of tall ceilings, bring your drapes up close to the ceiling and puddle them on the floor. Make sure to reference “Measuring for Curtains & Drapes”.

Q – How wide should curtains be? How many panels do I need?
A – Your curtain rod should extend 3-4 inches on either side of your window frame. If you have more space in the room and you want the window to appear larger, go wider. Once you determine how wide you would like your curtain rod, multiply that distance by 2 or 3 for the proper fullness – that is if you are not using a pleated drape. Make sure to reference Measuring for Curtains & Drapes.

Q – Where should I mount my window coverings in relation to the window?
A – On average, there should be a minimum of 4 inches on either side of the window. However, if you are mounting café curtains or different types of blinds, you will mount them inside the frame or as a service mount.

Q – Where should I mount my curtain rods in relation to the ceiling?
A – You should mount your curtain rod as close to the ceiling as possible to give the illusion that your room has tall ceilings. However leave a few inches of breathing room so it doesn’t crowd the ceiling too much (unless you are using a boxed cornice in which case, these often go up to the ceiling).

Q – What type of rod should I use?
A – There are many types of rods to choose from (see curtain rod types). You will know what type of rod to use based on window size and application. For instance, if you have a very large window to cover that you foresee that you will open and close frequently, consider using a decorative traverse rod. If you have a small kitchen window that you desire to be more casual, consider a café rod. If you are looking to utilize grommet drapes for a more casual look, consider using a classic rod.

Q – Do I need tiebacks?
A – You may want to consider tiebacks when you have layered drapes that are very formal. Using tiebacks when a drapery is not opened or closed often is ideal.

Q – How should I install my window treatments? Should I hire a handyman?
A – Hanging window treatments can be done yourself if you have the right tools (such as a level, a hand drill) and you feel confident in using them. Making sure everything is accurately measured and level is the most important. Hanging cornices and certain blinds and shades can be a little more challenging so you may want to consider using a handyman who specializes in window treatments in those cases.

Q – How do I care/clean/launder my window treatments?
A – If any of your window treatments are dusty, simply vacuum it using a clean upholstery attachment. Read your care labels. Most drapes will recommend dry cleaning. Some curtains may allow home laundering. Do be careful if your window treatments are lined, as the lining my shrink even if the external fabric can be laundered. Those with stitched-in pleats, tassels and other elaborate embellishments should be dry cleaned. Velvet drapes can be freshened without dry cleaning or washing by brushing them with a chamois cloth dipped in hot water and thoroughly wrung out. For fibers such as silk that say they can be hand washed, wash them in tepid water using mild dishwasher detergent by swishing gently without wringing or twisting of any kind. Keep your curtains dust free by using a dedicated vacuum cleaner’s soft brush attachment and vacuuming them routinely. As a tip, to keep the fabric from sucking into the vacuum, place a stiff piece of plastic screen or a clean nylon stocking between the nozzle and the fabric using a rubber band. Airing them out on an outdoor clothesline that is protected from birds is also an effective method for keeping your drapes/curtains fresh.

Q – What color should I choose? Should I choose a print or a solid color?
A – Consider style and mood of the room and whether or not you want it formal or more relaxed. Solid curtains provide more decorating options with other décor in the room. Select bright curtains that will coordinate with other colors that will pop into the room even if it is just a small piece of décor on a shelf or a bright color in a painting. If you prefer the curtains to blend with the décor, select curtains that are slightly darker than the walls or another non-dominant color that is used in the room. Don’t use patterned curtains if you already have patterned walls, furniture or bedding unless you like your room full of color. Consider using a print in a daring or bold color if you want a room that has drama and glam. Use subtle small prints for a more traditional and elegant effect. Patterns such as stripes, chevrons and geometric shapes bring a modern touch to the room.