Putting up a curtain pole might sound like a simple task, but if you’ve ever tried it, you’ll know there’s a bit more to it than just drilling a few holes and hoping for the best! Whether you're giving your room a fresh look or just trying to replace some old fixtures, hanging a curtain pole properly is key to making sure everything looks neat and functions as it should. So, let’s break down the steps to get those curtains hung with no fuss.
Choosing the right curtain pole
Before we get into the installation part, it’s important to make sure you’ve got the right curtain pole for the job. There’s no one-size-fits-all here – you’ll need to measure your window carefully and choose a pole that’s long enough to extend beyond the edges of your window frame. This allows your curtains to fully cover the window when closed but also lets in more light when open.
There are loads of different styles and materials to choose from – metal poles give a more modern feel, while wooden poles can add warmth and a classic touch. Don’t forget to pick the right finials (the decorative ends) to complement your room’s style.
If you’re unsure which pole to go for, our in-branch teams can offer some great advice and help you find the perfect option to suit your window size and interior design.
Gathering your tools and materials
Now that you’ve got your curtain pole, it’s time to gather the tools you’ll need to put it up. Here’s your basic toolkit for the job:
A tape measure
Pencil
Spirit level
Drill (with the right bit for your wall type)
Screws and wall plugs
Screwdriver
Stepladder (for those hard-to-reach places)
If your walls are particularly tough (like brick) or fragile (like plasterboard), you’ll want to make sure you’ve got the right drill bits and fixings. It’s always worth checking with the pros at your local Youngs if you’re unsure – we’ve got everything from wall plugs to heavy-duty fixings, so you can be sure your curtain pole stays securely in place.
Step 1: Measuring and marking the brackets
This is where things can go a bit wrong if you’re not careful, so it’s worth taking your time. Start by holding your curtain pole up to the wall to decide where you want it to sit. Ideally, your curtain pole should extend about 10-15 cm beyond the sides of your window frame, and sit 10-15 cm above it. This gives your curtains enough room to hang freely and makes the window look bigger and more balanced.
Once you’re happy with the positioning, mark the spots for your brackets on the wall using a pencil. Make sure they’re even on both sides – this is where your spirit level comes in handy. You don’t want wonky curtains! Double-check everything before you drill, because once those holes are in the wall, there’s no turning back.
Step 2: Drilling the Holes and Fitting the Brackets
Now it’s time to break out the drill. If you’ve got solid brick or concrete walls, you’ll need a masonry bit, while a regular drill bit will do the job for plasterboard or wooden walls. Drill holes at the spots you marked for your brackets, and then insert wall plugs to ensure a secure fit.
If your walls are plasterboard and you’re hanging heavy curtains, you’ll need to use special plasterboard fixings to stop the weight from pulling the brackets out of the wall over time.
Once your holes are ready and the wall plugs are in place, screw the brackets into the wall securely. Give them a little tug to make sure they’re solid – you don’t want them pulling out when you hang the curtains.
Step 3: Fitting the curtain pole
With the brackets securely in place, it’s time to fit the curtain pole. Slide the pole through your curtain rings or eyelets (depending on the type of curtains you’re using), and then slot the pole onto the brackets. Most curtain poles are designed to rest easily in place, but some might need an extra screw to secure them – check the instructions that came with your pole just in case.
Once the pole is up, fit the finials onto the ends to give it a finished look. Make sure everything’s sitting evenly, and give it a gentle shake to check the stability. If it’s all good, your curtain pole is ready for action.
Step 4: Hanging the Curtains
Now for the fun bit – hanging the curtains. Simply hook them onto the curtain rings or thread them through the pole if you’ve got eyelet curtains. Once they’re up, take a step back and admire your work! It’s always a good idea to give the curtains a little shake and pull to ensure everything’s hanging properly and smoothly.
And that’s it! With your new curtain pole up and your curtains looking fresh, you’ve instantly updated the look of your room. Whether you're going for a sleek, modern feel or something a bit more traditional, having a properly hung curtain pole can make a big difference. Plus, with the right tools and a bit of care, the job’s a lot easier than you might think.
For all your DIY needs – whether it’s curtain poles, fixings, or tools – you’ll find everything you need at Youngs. Our friendly staff are always on hand to help you get the job done right.
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