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By: Linden J. Walhard
At some point all homeowners buy window coverings as part
of a home building or remodeling project. At these times you
probably pay more attention to the curtains themselves than
the curtain rods. However, it might surprise you to realize
the enormous variety of rods available, and the difference
that selecting the right rod can make to the overall effect
of your window dressing. Hanging a rod in the correct manner
and finishing it well can also have an impact. You need to
find out a little more about curtain rods before you begin
your next window redesign task.
You are probably aware that there are three elements to a
curtain rod. The pole is the part that the material hangs
from, either on rings or directly in the case of tab top curtains.
There are also finials which sit on the ends of the pole to
prevent the curtains sliding off, and the brackets which secure
the pole to the wall. Each of these elements can be solely
functional, or they can include decorative features to enhance
the look of the overall window feature.
A good choice for non standard sized windows is an extending
pole. This is made of two hollow poles, one slightly narrower,
which fit one inside the other. The pole can then be adjusted
to the required length.
The finials can be a really extravagant and ornate feature
if that complements your overall design. They can be made
from a variety of substances, such as blown glass, carved
wood, or wrought iron. You can update your finials at any
time to change the whole look of the curtain rod. If your
pole is wooden you can always paint it to ensure it matches
or complements the finials.
Small functional brackets can easily be hidden behind the
curtain pole, but if you want to make a feature of these,
there are brackets available that will coordinate with your
finials. Larger brackets with fixtures for two or more curtain
poles can be bought. These are great for achieving a layered
effect with your curtains. The inner pole being used for a
sheer fabric, and the outer pole for a more traditional curtain.
Layering your curtains not only looks great but can provide
additional insulation and soundproofing as well. Be sure your
brackets are designed to support the weight of more than one
set of curtains, and that they are securely fastened into
the wall with long enough screws.
When it comes to positioning your rod, it is largely a matter
of personal taste. However there are some simple rules that
can help you maximize the look of your windows. If you have
high ceilings but fairly short windows, you will want to place
the rod some distance above the top of your window. This will
add length to your window pane and draw attention up to the
high ceiling. In a similar way, narrow windows can be widened
by using a longer pole than necessary. You will need extra
wide curtains, or perhaps a number of panels to hide the wall
on either side of the window.
Rods can be used away from the window as well. They are perfect
for mounting a wall hanging or tapestry on a particularly
ugly wall. If you have a large expanse of open wall space
that a framed picture simply will not do justice to, a beautiful
throw or piece of fabric, suspended from a curtain rod can
give just the right effect. Next time you are decorating,
pay more attention to your selection of curtain rod, you will
be amazed at the effects you can achieve with a little imagination.
About The Author
Linden Walhard writes articles almost entirely for http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com
, a web page about window coverings and home building. Working
on his writings (for instance http://www.curtains-drapes-coverings.com/curtain-rods.html
on curtain rods ) he affirmed his know-how in the area.
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