A French return rod is a type of traditional curtain rod that is often used in homes. It consists of two pieces: a stationary bracket, and a rod which is moveable. The rod has a bend in the middle which gives it the characteristic “French return” shape, which allows the curtains to be drawn when desired.
Not only is this style great for privacy, but it also adds visual interest with its curved, updated design. The rods are available in a variety of materials, finishes, and sizes to accommodate different windows and settings.
Easy to install, French return rods are a great way to spruce up any home and make a formal, yet modern statement.
What are the types of curtain rods?
There are many types of curtain rods that are suitable for different purposes, depending on the type of window treatments you are looking to install. Generally, curtain rods are categorized according to the application, size, color, and material.
Here’s a look at the different types of curtain rods:
1. Swing Arm Curtain Rods – These rods are most commonly used for windows that are close to the wall. They are typically fitted for short curtains and create an elegant, minimalist look.
2. Telescoping Curtain Rods – These rods are adjustable in length and can cover a large area. Additionally, they are designed in sections that can be adjusted directly in the middle or at the end.
3. Traverse Rods – These rods are a popular choice for homeowners looking to customize window treatments. They come with a cord or bracket system, allowing you to open and close the curtains without having to remove them from the wall.
4. Double Rods – If your window treatments require two different types of curtains, a double rod is the perfect option. This type of rod is designed to mount two curtains on one rod, allowing you to install lighter curtains on the inner rod and thicker curtains on the outer rod for added privacy and insulation.
5. Return Curtain Rods – Return curtain rods are elegant in design and provide a unique solution when it comes to small windows. They come in single or double rods, with the springs curved around the wall, providing a subtle and sophisticated finish.
6. Café Rods – These rods are most commonly seen in kitchens or breakfast nooks, as they create a café-like atmosphere. The length of café rods is typically set to the width of the window or window frame to allow curtains to come across each window side.
7. Movable Rods – Movable rods come with brackets that are adjustable, allowing you to open and close window treatments whenever desired. They also come in different shapes, such as curved, square, or circular.
How do you hang French curtain rods back?
To hang French curtain rods back, you’ll need to begin by measuring the width of the window in order to determine what size of curtain rod is necessary. Once you have determined the size of the rod, you need to install the rod into the window with brackets.
Most French curtain rods are traditionally mounted with brackets that are either screwed into or mounted with adhesive to the window frame or the wall above or to either side of the window. The rod is then inserted into the brackets and secured with screws.
If the rod has a center bracket, attach it and the rod to the wall first. Place the brackets on either side of the window and then slide the rod into the grooves of the brackets. Use small screws to secure the brackets to the rod and then screw them into the wall or window frame.
After that, you’ll need to hang the curtains on the rod, using clip rings and a traverse curtain rod with hooks, which may require you to use a ladder to do so. Finally, once the curtains are attached, you can adjust the opening and closing of the curtains by pulling either end of the traverse rod.
How many rings should a curtain panel have?
The number of rings needed for each curtain panel will depend on the type of panels you are using, their length, and the type of curtain rod you are hanging them from. In general, if you are using lightweight curtains that do not need heavy-duty support, 2-3 rings should be sufficient.
For heavier fabrics and curtain rods that are wider or require more support, such as an inside-mount rod, you may need up to 6 rings per panel. If the curtains are long, you may need to use an additional ring at both the top and bottom of the panel to ensure that the curtains hang evenly.
Additionally, you may want to consider adding extra rings if you plan on using a tieback or other decorative elements with your curtains. Ultimately, the number of rings you need for your curtains will depend on the factors mentioned above, so it is best to consult with a professional to ensure that your panels are properly hung.
How far should a curtain rod extend past window?
When hanging a curtain rod, the rod should extend at least 3 to 6 inches (or depending on the width of the curtains) beyond the window on either side. A longer curtain rod creates a balanced look. Extending the rod 10 to 12 inches on either side creates a more dramatic look, plus it allows for more light control when the curtains are drawn.
Extending a curtain rod beyond the window also creates a visual border, which can make the window look larger. If the window is off center in the wall, you should extend the rod at least 6 inches beyond the window on the side that is closer to the wall and then you can customize the length of the other side to create a more balanced look.
What size curtain rod do I need for French doors?
The size of curtain rod you will need for French doors will depend on a few factors. The first is the size of the French doors, which can range from 30 inches to over 72 inches. Secondly, where on the frame of the door you plan to hang the rod.
If the rod is to be mounted inside the frame of the door, the length of the rod should be equal to the width of the French door plus an additional 4-6 inches on either side. If the rod will be mounted outside the frame of the door, the length should be the width of the French door plus an additional 8-10 inches on either side.
Lastly, consider the type of curtains you plan to hang and the types of hardware required. For instance, curtains with rings require larger rods than standard curtains.
How far above a window should a curtain rod be?
The ideal height to hang a curtain rod above a window is usually 4-6 inches above the top of the window frame. The placement of the curtain rod ultimately depends on the size of the window and the curtains you are using.
If you are using large, heavy curtains or curtains that do not need to open or close frequently, you might want to hang the rod higher up on the wall. On the other hand, if you are using lightweight curtains or prefer to open and close them frequently, it would be better to hang the rod closer to the top of the window frame to prevent the fabric from dragging on the ground.
How long can a curtain rod be without a middle support?
The maximum length of a curtain rod without a middle support depends on the weight of the curtains that will be hanging from it. Generally, curtain rods up to 144 inches (3.7 meters) in length can be mounted without a middle support if the curtains are light weight.
However, if the curtains are on the heavier side, it is recommended to use a middle support for any curtain rod longer than 72 inches (1.8 meters). This will help evenly distribute the weight of the curtains and reduce the risk of the rod drooping and possibly falling.
How much bigger should curtain ring be than Rod?
In general, the curtain ring should be about 2-3 inches larger than the diameter of the curtain rod. This is to allow for a bit of play when pulling the curtains open and closed, like allowing the rings to slightly slide over the rod.
For instance, if you have a 1 inch diameter curtain rod, you should look for a curtain ring that is at least 3-4 inches in diameter. If you have a thicker diameter rod, such as a 2 inch rod, you should look for a ring that is 5-6 inches in diameter.
It’s always better to opt for a bigger ring if need be, as it’s easier to go up than it is to go down in size.
How do you measure finials?
Finials are decorative features that are typically attached to the top of poles or other structures, such as gables or furniture, to give them a finished look. Measuring finials starts with knowing the diameter and the length that is desired.
The diameter of the finial should be the same as the diameter of the shaft of the pole or other support the finial will be attached to. The length of the finial will depend on the look desired. If the finial will be completely visible, it can be longer.
If the finial will be partially visible, it can be shorter.
When measuring finials, it is important to consider the surface the finial will be attached to, as they usually have a pattern or design that should be visible when installed. If the finial is going onto a round post, be sure to measure the circumference of the post across or up and down so the finial is not off-center.
Also be sure to measure to the desired height and width, as too long of a finial could create a bulky look that is not desired. And, the weight of the finial should be taken into consideration; too much weight could cause the post or other structure to become unstable.
Finally, accuracy is incredibly important when measuring finials to ensure that the desired look is achieved. Measurements should be taken several times to double-check for accuracy to make sure the perfect finial for the job is selected.
How do I know what curtain rod to buy?
When it comes to selecting the best curtain rod for your home, there are a number of factors to consider in order to ensure it meets your needs and fits the style of your home.
First and foremost, you will need to determine the size of window you need to cover. This should help narrow your search down to the correct length and style of curtain rod. You will also need to measure the wall to floor distance of the window that is to be covered so that you can purchase the correct length of rod.
For example, longer rods are needed for wider windows.
You will then want to decide which finish and color best fits your home. Consider the rest of the rooms décor when selecting a finish. Popular materials include iron, brass, and steel, as well as various types of wood or faux wood materials.
You should also find out what type of bracket and mounting hardware is needed for the installation. Make sure you double check that the chosen brackets are compatible with the hardware included with your curtain rod.
Finally, the shape of your rod is also a critical factor to consider. If you are looking for curved looks or other non-traditional shapes, make sure you consider where you will buy the rod for the best prices and selection.
By following the steps above, you should have no trouble selecting the best curtain rod for your home.
Are thicker curtain rods better?
It depends on the purpose for which you are using the curtain rods. Generally speaking, thicker curtain rods are sturdier and can handle heavier curtains, but they may not be a good fit for every situation.
Thicker curtain rods can be more difficult to maneuver and if you only have a small gap in which to hang the rod, then a thinner option might be a better choice. Additionally, thicker rods can be more cumbersome and may be better suited for large, heavy curtains, while thinner rods are better for lightweight curtains.
Ultimately, it is important to consider the size, weight, and aesthetic of the curtains you will be hanging before selecting a curtain rod.
Do curtain rods matter?
Yes, curtain rods do matter when it comes to the overall look of a room. Choosing the right curtain rod can help to enhance the atmosphere and set the tone for the room. For example, a heavy metal rod may exude a sense of strength and stability, while a thinner, more delicate rod can add a touch of airiness and lightness to an interior.
Furthermore, the shape of the rod can add an interesting visual element to a room. A curved curtain rod can soften hard angles and might be ideal for a more romantic style, whereas a bold and straight rod could complement a modern and minimalist look.
Ultimately, curtain rods can either draw the eye up to the ceilings to create a sense of spaciousness in a room, or they can help to demarcate space if used as a room partition. With a wide range of colors, finishes, and styles to choose from, finding the right curtain rod to suit a particular design can help to bring a room together.
How much should you spend on curtain rods?
When it comes to spending on curtain rods, it all depends on your budget and the look you are trying to achieve. If you’re looking to save some money, there are some great options out there. For instance, you can buy plastic rods from a home store that are easy to install and come in a variety of sizes and colors to match your decor.
Additionally, you can find some affordable options on websites like Amazon or eBay. However, if you’re looking for something more elegant and durable, you should consider investing in metal rods. These rods are more expensive, but will last longer and look great.
It’s also worth noting that if you are spending a bit more, you can get rods that are adjustable and can fit windows of almost any size. So, when it comes to curtain rods, the amount you spend depends on what you’re looking for, but if you’re looking for quality, you may have to invest a bit more.
What is the difference between a curtain rod and a drapery rod?
The main difference between a curtain rod and a drapery rod is the size and weight of the rod. A curtain rod is usually smaller, lighter and can be used to hold lightweight curtains or drapes while a drapery rod is usually made of heavier materials and is designed to hold heavier fabrics and window treatments.
Drapery rods also often have decorative accents such as finials and brackets that a curtain rod would not have. Lastly, curtain rods often have adjustable widths, while drapery rods typically come in fixed sizes.
Are traverse rods out of style?
Traverse rods are not necessarily out of style, but they are not as popular as they used to be. Traverse rods are a type of curtain rod with a track that allows the curtain to be opened and closed using a pull cord or wand.
They offer versatility and convenience and can be used to hang a variety of types of window treatments, such as pinch pleat drapery, goblet pleat drapery and Austrian shades. They can also be used to hang stationary curtains in various configurations, such as back tab, rod pocket and grommet styles.
However, more contemporary styles of window treatments have become more popular in recent years. These styles of drapery, such as grommet and rod pocket, create a more modern look and allow for easier installation than traverse rods.
They can be hung with no additional hardware and are often less expensive than traverse rods.
It is important to note that traverse rods can still be used to create a stylish, contemporary look, and they are still used in many homes and businesses. They are also still used in public spaces, such as hotels and restaurants, to provide convenience and enhance the aesthetic.
For those who prefer traverse rods, they can be a great choice. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
How long is standard window curtain rod?
The specific length of a standard window curtain rod depends on the size of the window. Curtain rods usually come in either 84 inch or 120 inch lengths, so if the window is between 30 inches and 84 inches wide, an 84 inch curtain rod should be sufficient.
If the window is wider than 84 inches, then a 120 inch curtain rod should be purchased. It is also important to consider the type of window hanging the rod will be used for; many small apartments may need a longer rod length to accommodate heavier or more decorative curtains or draperies.
Also, for outside mount curtain rods, an additional 2-6 inches should be added to the rod length to ensure enough clearance for the curtains.
How do you close a gap between curtains and walls?
The best way to close the gap between curtains and walls is to adjust the size of the rods or curtains. If the rod is adjustable, pull it out to its maximum length and the curtains should hang closer to the wall.
If the rod is not adjustable, you may need to choose a longer rod that can accommodate the length of the curtains.
You can also add tension rods in the corners to hold the curtains in place. Install the tension rods shorter than the window opening to ensure the curtains fit snug against the wall. Place one rod at the top and one at the bottom with the curtain in between to secure the curtains from both sides.
Alternatively, adding a coordinating trim or patterned fabric can also cover up the gap. Cut the trim to size and attach it to the wall with adhesive. A decorative fabric can also be draped over the rod and secured with fabric tape or small nails in order to create a cleaner look.
How wide should curtains be for 72 inch window?
Curtains for a 72-inch window should generally be at least double the width of the window. So for a 72-inch window, curtains should be at least 144 inches wide. However, this is a minimum, and curtains can be wider if desired.
For a fuller, more luxe look, curtains that are three times the width of the window can create nice, gathered panels that begin at least 6-inches away from the sides of the window. For example, if you chose 144-inch curtains that are three times the width of the window, the panels would start at 24-inches from the sides of the window.
This allows for plenty of natural light to come in without sacrificing an upscale look.
Do curtains have to touch the floor?
No, curtains do not necessarily have to touch the floor. The general rule of thumb is that curtains should be hung 1-2 inches above the window to allow more light to come through, while curtains that reach the floor provide extra coverage and sound reduction.
Ultimately it is up to the individual’s preference. Adequate coverage is important however, as more light can be let through if the fabric gaps are too large. Additionally, if the curtains are installed in a high traffic area, it may be beneficial to hem them slightly longer than the floor level so they don’t become a tripping hazard.