Curtain Rods: Size Definitely Matters
Ok, curtain rods are not what they appear to be. These rods require some strength to hold up the heaviest fabrics without bending in the middle, but need to be light enough not to tear the mounting brackets out of the wall. They have to be smooth enough for curtains to slide down without snagging, and long enough to stretch across that big bay window. These curtain accessories also come with mounting hardware and screws, so it takes tools to put up a curtain hanger. Once you have gotten past all of these points, it is time to go and pick some up.
First of all, curtain rods do not come with the curtain set. You have to purchase them separately. The other thing is you have to have the rods that fit the window treatment. You find this out by measuring before you buy. Curtain hangers fit outside the window, so measure on the outside of the frame instead of inside, like you would with blinds. Blinds, of course, fit inside the window frame.
Second, depending on the window treatment, you may need more than one set of rods. Some window treatments have as many as 5 layers of curtains, sheers, and valences, and a rod will be needed for each aspect of the window treatment. In addition, some applications call for curved rods, others call for rigid, and still others call for adjustable rods. Before you buy rods, make sure you know exactly what kind you are looking for.
A rod is unique in the fact that it is often several feet long, and no one ever notices them. That makes it a fairly odd piece of décor. What is important here is the part that can be noticed look as good as possible and compliment the room. Some rods come with ornamental tips that will set off a room beautifully, but most curtain hangers are strictly functional in design, and made to be covered by the curtain. No matter which rod you end up choosing, make sure it looks good and fits the window treatment you have planned.
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