How To Install Curtains At Home

What you’ll need to install curtains at home

You need various tools and equipment to correctly and safely put up curtains at home. Some of this equipment you may already have lying around the garage, whereas other equipment you may need to borrow from your neighbour or hire. Tools required to install curtains at home includes:

• Stud finder
• Spirit level
• Ladder
• Pencil or chalk
• Tape measure
• Screwdriver
• Drill
• Drywall anchors (optional)

How to put up a curtain rod or track

It may seem a little intimidating at first, but installing a curtain rod or track yourself can be made simple by following our step-by-step guide. Obviously, if your rod or track is already installed and you’re just hanging new curtains or drapes, skip this process. If you have a set of manufacturer instructions for installing your new rod or track, follow these in the first instance. 

1. Make your mark

To start with, you’ll need to measure and mark where the brackets for your new rod or track will go. Generally, your rod or track should extend out about 3 to 6 inches (8 to 15 cm) past your window frame. Using your pencil, make your mark on the wall. Then, using your bracket, mark the spots you’ll be drilling into. Use your spirit level to make sure everything is even. 

Top tip: If you can, you’ll want to screw into a wall stud. This is where a stud finder comes in handy. Screwing into a wall stud will help support your rod or track’s weight. 

2. Put together your brackets

Step 2 should be relatively easy to do. Simply put your brackets together using your screwdriver and screws provided. The manufacturer may give a few pointers here.

3. Install your brackets

Next up, place your brackets against the marks you drew on the wall earlier. You’ll want first to drill holes into the wall using your drill, then using your screwdriver, screw in your brackets. You may also want to install a drywall screw anchor for heavy rods, tracks or curtains. This will help stabilise the screw and secure the brackets into your drywall.  

4. Put up your rod or track

Before doing this, check that your new brackets are secure on the wall. Once done, expand your curtain rod or track and fix it onto the brackets. At this point, you may also need to screw on your finials, depending on your particular rod or track. 

Now, you’re good to hang up your new curtain! When installing a new curtain rod or track, you must keep safety top of mind. Be sure to wear the proper personal protective equipment when operating any tools or gear. For example, you may want to use gloves while drilling. If you’re not confident using power tools, it may be a good idea to ask an experienced friend or family member for guidance. 

Top tip: Finials are like a buffer on each side of your rod or track to prevent your curtain from coming off. 

How to hang rod curtains

Hanging eyelet curtains, tab top curtains or drapes to a rod is a simple process. As with installing your rod or track, it’s always important to follow manufacturer instructions in the first instance. Otherwise, follow these simple steps: 

1. Lay your new curtain out flat
2. Take your rod off from the brackets
3. Remove any finials
4. Thread your curtain through the rod
5. Put your finials back on
6. Place your curtain rod back on its brackets
   
   

If you need advice on how to best measure curtains before putting them up, read our helpful guide on how to measure curtains.

How to hang track curtains

Hanging pencil pleat curtains to a track is a little more time-consuming than hanging eyelet curtains to a rod. However, it’s still an easy process. Follow your manufacturer's instructions firstly, otherwise, here are simple steps to follow:

1. Lay out your new curtain
2. Take down your track from the brackets
3. Remove any finials
4. Attach your pleat hooks into the curtain’s heading tape
5. Go along your track and attach your sliders to the pleat hooks
6. Put your finials back on
7. Place your curtain track back on its brackets
   
   

It’s important you take the time to ensure your pleat hooks are evenly spread out. You don’t want to have to spend time redoing this process.

The range of curtains at Briscoes

Now that you know how to install a curtain rod or track and how to hang up rod curtains and track curtains, it’s time to pick a style you like. At Briscoes, we have a wide selection of curtains to choose from. Depending on your unique taste and style, you may want to choose from our selection, including: 

• Eyelet curtains
• Pencil pleat curtains
• Sheer curtains
• Tab top curtains
• Thermal curtains
  
  

The leading window finishing brands we are proud to supply include:

• Studio One
• Fusion Textures
• Habitat
• Classic Living
• Urban Interiors
• UrbanLoft
• Galaxy

Custom curtain service

If you’re looking for a more custom approach to your curtains or drapes, we also offer a custom curtain service. This service is particularly helpful if you’re working with a window that is an unusual shape or size. It could be too small, too big or even an odd-shaped door. Choose from some of our most sought-after designs, including pencil pleat curtains and eyelet curtains. Once you’ve picked the curtain you like, measure for the size you need. Then, you’ll be able to shop online with our online order form. We’ll contact you if we have any questions, but your new custom curtains will then be delivered right to your door within eight weeks.  

On the market for new curtains or blinds?

With a bit of reading up in advance, it’s easy to install new curtains at home. In saying that, it’s important to follow your manufacturer's direction or our guidelines carefully. That way, you’ll prevent any re-dos, damaging your drywall or letting warm air escape your home during winter. Briscoes is your home of new window finishings, from window blinds to drapes, curtains and everything in between. You can browse our range or window finishings online with confidence thanks to our price-beat guarantee. Then, get quick delivery right to your door. If you want to see our range in person, pop into your nearest Briscoes store. For more advice to do with curtains, read our guide on how to clean curtains or how to measure curtains. Happy curtain hunting!