Curtain Poles & Tracks Buying Guide
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Curtain poles and tracks both offer unique benefits when hanging your curtains. In this handy guide, we’ve put together all of the questions you may have about curtain drapery.
Curtain poles offer multiple hanging options, with the choice of rings and gliders, and the ability to fit eyelet curtains. In comparison, curtain tracks are minimal, practical and bend at a tighter radius. They are suitable for all types of headings, excluding tab and eyelet fit. If you’re looking for an alternative to eyelets, Wave is a great option.
While curtain tracks offer a discrete look, curtain poles can be accessorised to make a statement. Our curtain poles come in a range of stylish colours, and you can choose from a matching range of finials, midials and holdbacks. They are also available in a variety of diameters to create either a bold or minimalist appearance.
Tracks are suitable for any type of fixing, whereas poles with rings are generally not appropriate for top fixing. Eyelets aren’t the best option for bay windows unless you opt for multiple curtains, as the eyelets can’t pass the brackets. The majority of curtain tracks tend to run smoother than poles due to their roller gliders. The exception is our metro pole, which is practical and can be flush fixed.
If you purchase a curtain pole with rings, we recommend using ten rings per metre. Bay windows with a custom bent pole require C-rings and passing brackets to enable smooth drawing.
If you’d like a pole with gliders, select a glider type when you purchase your pole. The glider poles are only suitable for curtains with hooks. All of our tracks and our metro pole come with 10 gliders per metre included and one bracket for every 60 cm.
Once you have all the parts needed to hold your curtains, you need brackets to fix your pole or track into place. There are many types of brackets, so check our glossary to find out the function of each type.
Curtains can be fixed to a curtain pole using rings and gliders, or around the pole with eyelets.
Poles with rings are a traditional way to hang curtains and require manual opening. They can be trickier to draw as the rings run across the pole, but you can attach draw rods to help.
Poles with gliders offer smoother operation and can either be uncorded (hand drawn) or corded for ease of use. Both options are ideal for drawing heavier curtains thanks to their smooth movement. For ultimate simplicity, electric models can be operated by remote, switch, radio or timer.
Corded poles and tracks are easily operated with a pull-cord, meaning you won’t have to handle the curtain. This means they are ideal for hanging delicate fabrics and heavier curtains. Uncorded designs keep the focus on the curtains, offering a more modern style.
Electric poles and tracks are either operated by remote, switch, radio or timer. Electric poles are great for drawing attention to the pole design, while electric tracks keep the focus on your curtains.
They make drawing your curtains easier than ever and can be controlled right from your sofa. Models with timers and light sensors can even open and close automatically, ideal if you are away from home.
Electric models add a sense of luxury to your home and make life easier. If you have tall windows or heavy curtains, you won’t have to pull the curtains by hand. As you won’t need to handle the fabric, it will suffer less wear and tear.
You’ll need to measure your window using a metal tape, following our measuring and ordering guide. The method required depends on the shape of your window, and bay windows require a number of measurements.
You should allow around 15 – 30cm either side of the window for straight windows that aren’t in a recess. Also, bear in mind that finials will add to the overall pole length.
Select a diameter based on how prominent you would like the pole to be. Larger diameters complement tall windows, while more delicate fabrics often suit smaller diameters. If you use eyelet curtains, choose a diameter to fit into the eyelets. It’s worth noting that pole diameter does not dictate strength.
Provide measurements of your bay window when you purchase a suitable pole or track, and we can bend it to fit. Choose from a range of high-quality aluminium curtain tracks or if you prefer poles, take a look at the Bradbury design. All of our poles can be bent for bay windows, which makes them very strong and suitable for heavy curtains. Please note, your outer wall will need to be thick enough to withstand the fitting process.
If you choose a curtain pole, you’ll need passing brackets and C-rings for the curtains to pass along the window smoothly.
Layering up curtains adds a stylish look to a room and is easy to achieve with a double curtain track system. This is a track that has two channels to hang two layers of curtains.
We stock high-quality aluminium tracks that can be easily bent and cut to size. These are more durable than plastic alternatives, making them a reliable option.
Curtain poles are more customisable and are available in a range of materials and finishes. Wooden poles provide a rustic look, perfect for more traditional homes. Metal poles flatter any interior style and come in a range of finishes. Our Bradbury pole can even be bent to suit bay windows, saving you from connecting multiple poles.
You can dress your curtain pole with matching finials, midials and holdbacks. These complete the look of your pole and create a style statement in your room. If you prefer a more understated look, you can fix end caps to the ends of your pole as an alternative to finials.
Browse our large range of high-quality poles and tracks, or get in touch to specify your requirements.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of telescopic pole for sale. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
Whether you’re redesigning your living room or looking to add style to your kitchen, bedroom, or bathroom, carefully chosen curtain rods and complementary window treatments can make a huge impact. Want to get ready for your next project? Begin by taking a quick look at the basics: What Do I need to measure and hang my curtain rod?
If you're looking to buy a rod for your curtains, make sure you select pieces that make a bold statement while still complementing your home's unique style.Follow our 7 tips for choosing a curtain rod below to ensure that your window treatments are both dependable and fashion-forward. Let’s get started!
When shopping for drapery rods, it’s important to first consider the types of curtains you want to hang. Curtain rod hardware can vary in shape and size, so it’s important to find the right type of rod for your specific window size and type of curtain. Standard curtain rods are typically made from metal or wood and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. If you have a small window, consider using a mini or small curtain rod instead. These types of rods are designed for smaller spaces and are often made from plastic or aluminum.
When selecting a curtain rod, keep in mind the weight of your curtains. If you have heavy or thick curtains, you’ll need to select a sturdier rod that can support the fabric. For light or sheer curtains, a thinner and more delicate rod may be all you need.
Both wood and metal drapery hardware come in a vast range of finishes and designs. Each can be used for longer or shorter window spans. The question of whether to use metal or wood drapery hardware is a matter of design and personal choice. There really isn’t an incorrect answer as to what looks “best” in a particular room. The decision is determined by personal choice and opinion. In the most general terms, metal rods provide a more modern look while wooden curtain hardware will give the room either an elegant luxe finish - with the use of dark woods - or a relaxed and natural feel with lighter woods. Metal and Wooden rods are available in a range of finishes, allowing you to complete the look of any room with ease. Learn more about our Kirsch Wrought Iron curtain rods.
While your everyday department store retailer may offer products within the general $40.00-$200.00 curtain rod price range, Drapery Rods Direct features a vast array of trendy and durable Kirsch® fixtures and hardware for the same price, but with unmatched quality and value hands down!
Explore our premier selection of everything from stylish baseline products to decorative wood, decorative metal curtain rods, and even motorized curtain rods all at an affordable price.
When measuring your space for a curtain rod, it's important to take window size, type of curtain, and the desired look into account. Standard curtain rod lengths range from 24" - 144", while mini and small curtain rods range from 12" - 48". If you're looking for a more custom look, try measuring the width of your window and adding 4-6 inches on each side to account for the hardware. This will give you a starting point for finding the perfect-sized curtain rod for your space.
Now that you know the types of curtain rods available and have an idea of what size you need, it's time to consider style. Are you looking for a traditional wood rod or something more modern? Once you've decided on the overall look you're going for, it will be easier to narrow down your options.
If you're still not sure which style of curtain rod is right for you, take a look at the rest of the décor in your room. Is your furniture classic or contemporary? Do you have bold wallpaper or neutral paint colors? Your curtain rod should complement the other elements in your space.
Finally, don't forget to pay attention to the details. Finials, brackets, and other accessories can really make a difference in the look of your curtain rod. Consider what kind of hardware would best suit your space and personal style.
There are a few tips when it comes to choosing the best curtain rods for your home. First, decide if you want a double or single curtain rod. It’s important to find just the right curtain rod and accessories that will complement your home’s aesthetic.
We’ve done the hard work for you by putting together this list of 7 things to consider before selecting a curtain rod.
Before deciding what size curtain rod you need, let’s quickly review a few simple guidelines on how to measure for curtain rods based on the type(s) of window treatments that you will be using, such as sheer curtains, and heavier fabric drapes, or a stand-alone valance.
It may seem difficult to determine what size curtain rod you need for a particular project, but it’s actually quite simple! Let’s start by selecting your desired style (wood, metal, or wrought iron) and then choosing what size curtain rod diameter is needed. All curtain rods are measured by their diameter, meaning the width of the pole’s cross-section. Common curtain rod diameters are typically between 1-3 inches, depending on the weight of your curtains.
Next, how long does your curtain rod need to be? Drapery Rods Direct offers both telescopic and fixed-width rods enabling you to choose whether your projects require an expandable pole (covering any width within the specified range) or a fixed-width curtain rod (covering areas the exact same size that you need or longer). Do you have a larger window that is longer than the standard 2-8 feet? Our experienced drapery rod staff can splice (or connect) two or more curtain rods to create a custom length perfect for your special space.
Don’t forget to stay on-trend by selecting a curtain rod or rail that’s length is (or can be extended to) several inches beyond the exact measurement of your window on each side. Choosing a bit longer curtain rod will give the appearance of a grander window and treatment, while also allowing your window’s full amount of natural light inside when the curtains are open.
Choosing the right curtain rod for heavy curtains is essential, as it will ensure that the weight of the curtains does not cause the rod to bend or break. For thicker, bulkier curtains, heavy-duty curtain rods are typically the best option. These types of rods are specifically designed to withstand the weight of heavy drapery materials.
Drapery Rods Direct has a variety of options in varying sizes and colors. When selecting the size, consider both the length of your window and the fullness of your curtains. We have many options to choose from including Cord-Draw Rods, Baton-Draw Rods, and Traverse Drapery Rods.
Where should you begin when deciding how to measure the height of your curtains and rods? Since a window, curtain rod, and stylish set of drapes tends to become a key focal point in your home, installing a curtain rod too low can "bring down" the height of the room. Based on your personal preference, you can choose to hang your curtain rods a few inches above the window or go a bit higher and evenly split the distance between the top of the window frame and your room’s crown molding or ceiling. We find that most people often tend to initially hang their curtain rods too low, only to go a few inches higher later – which makes a huge difference throughout your home by giving the appearance of “taller” rooms!
Drapery Rods Direct has a vast array of elegant and fashion-forward Kirsch® curtain rods, rails, and complementary hardware to choose from. Typically, you would want to begin by figuring out which type of material best suits your home and personal style – wood curtain rods, designer metal, or wrought iron pieces.
It’s also very important to determine which overall type of curtain or drapery style you are interested in… designs that are a visible component of the finished product or basic hardware that is mostly hidden after installation?
After making these decisions, let your design inspirations and creativity lead the way! Select complementary curtain rod and drapery colors that go along with your existing décor or maybe opt for bolder, contrasting choices that set your space apart.
Whether your project calls for decorative curtain rods, custom curtain rods, or extra long curtain rods, Drapery Rods Direct provides products that meet your needs! Consult our experts today at 800-251-5009to help decide whether your window needs a fixed-width curtain rod, telescopic (expandable) curtain rod, or custom curtain rod option (spliced/extended). Curtain Rod Sets simplify the buying process.
When it comes to quality, there really are no rods for curtains that will fail you when you choose Drapery Rods Direct as your professional curtain rod specialist. Feeling concerned about how to select a curtain rod? Kirsch® products will undoubtedly meet all of your design needs and surpass your quality expectations as they have been the leader in producing elegant and dependable drapery hardware since 1907.
Whether you’re interested in a more classic wooden curtain rod or perhaps a modern designer metal piece, Drapery Rods Directs brings customers a full line of stylish and durable products perfect for completing any window treatment project.
What curtain rods are trending? Whether you are looking for french door curtain rods, or ceiling mount curtain rods, Drapery Rods Direct has the solution for you! The most commonly sought-after sizes and styles feature a 1 and 3/8 inch (in diameter) size curtain rod to a 2-inch curtain rod, typically for windows with a length measuring between 66-120 inches. Browse your go-to design magazines, websites, or blogs to explore current color trends or pattern styles that make you feel inspired.
Look no further than Drapery Rods Direct – offering customers a vast array of premiere Kirsch® fixtures and hardware. Browse our full line of quality drapery rods and poles, matching curtain rod brackets, finials, rings, and more that are ideal for any room update or home makeover project.
If you're experiencing trouble finding the perfect curtain rod, reach out to our seasoned pros by contacting customerservice@draperyrodsdirect.com.
Drapery hardware is an important part of any window treatment, and the right curtain rods can make all the difference in your room's style. Whether you're looking for a sleek, modern look or something more traditional, these tips will help you choose the best curtain rods for your home.
So what are you waiting for? Get started on your next design project today! We have specialists available by phone Monday through Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM. Give us a call and receive your free consultation today at 800-251-5009.
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