Curtain Rod & Track Installation

While curtain rods and curtain tracks perform similarly in function, they each carry different benefits that see them better fit different scenarios.

Visibility

Curtain rods are highly visible, meaning that they can add to the visual appeal when it matches or accentuates the interior design of the room. There are multiple materials that the curtain rod can come in – metal, wooden, or acrylic, each providing a drastically different feel. It can be quite challenging to choose the right curtain rod, even if you don’t particularly care about the aesthetics. So why not consult a guide to picking the best curtain rod?

If you are looking to highlight the curtain itself, or just prefer a more modern and minimalistic look, then you would want to install a curtain track instead. It can be concealed within the window recess area, valance, or directly into the ceiling. Some HDB homes even have curtain tracks pre-installed in their window grilles!

Curtain Types

Different curtain hardware supports different curtain styles – for example, eyelet curtains, tab top curtains, and the self-explanatory rod pocket curtains are some of the curtains that can only be used with a curtain rod. The rod threads through the eyelets, tabs, and pockets respectively.

Weight Considerations

Different curtain hardware has different load limits. Curtain rods, for example, are generally sturdier than the thinner curtain tracks, allowing them to better carry thicker and heavier curtains. This is one of the reasons why you should buy a curtain rod. However, since curtains go hand in hand with their attached hardware, an important thing to consider before buying a curtain rod/track is to factor in their weight as a package. For example, you need to consider if the wall that the curtain rod is bracketed to can hold the combined weight.

You might observe your curtain rod to be sagging in the middle after a period of use. Or you could be worried about this issue and want to prevent it from happening to you. Regardless of what position you are in, you should learn about why your curtain rod sags so that you can take the proper preventive or corrective steps.

Your Curtains Might Be Too Heavy

• Heavier curtains exert more downward pressure, which not all curtain rods are equipped to handle. It could also be that your children and pets have been pulling the curtain regularly, which stresses the curtain rod. To fix this issue, opt for curtains made from a lighter fabric or replace your current curtain rod with a thicker one.

Your Curtain Rod Might Not Be Properly Supported

• Most people only install the supporting brackets near the ends of the installed curtain rod. If you have a long curtain rod to cover a wider window space, the center of the rod is not likely to have enough support to counteract the weight of the curtains. To fix this issue, you can opt to install an additional bracket where the curtain rod sags.

Your Curtain Rod Might Be Defective

• A poorly manufactured curtain rod may have structural issues that cause it to break more easily. It could also be damaged when left unattended after exposure to weather elements. This is why you should consider buying a stainless-steel curtain rod. They are more durable and corrosion resistant.