How to Hang a Curtain Pole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Hanging a curtain pole sounds like one of those jobs that should take 20 minutes and somehow takes all afternoon. It doesn’t have to. Here’s how to do it properly without the drama.
What you’ll need
- Your curtain pole and brackets
- A pencil and spirit level
- A tape measure
- A drill with the right bit for your wall type
- Wall plugs and screws (usually included with the brackets)
- A screwdriver
Step 1: Decide on height and width
Position your pole 10-15cm above the top of the window frame. Higher is generally better – it makes the window look taller and the room feel more generous. The pole should extend 15-20cm beyond the window frame on each side so the curtains can stack back and let light in properly when open.
Step 2: Mark the bracket positions
Hold the first bracket up at your chosen height and mark the fixing holes with a pencil. Use your spirit level to get a straight horizontal line across to where the second bracket will go. If your pole is wider than about 180cm, you’ll need a centre support bracket as well.
Step 3: Check your wall type
Knock on the wall – a solid sound means solid plaster or brick, and standard wall plugs will do. A hollow sound means plasterboard, and you’ll need cavity wall fixings. If you’re in any doubt, use the appropriate fixing for plasterboard. A curtain pole with heavy curtains carries more weight than you’d think.
Step 4: Drill, fix, and hang
Drill at your marked points, insert your wall plugs, and screw in the brackets firmly. Thread your curtains onto the pole before you seat it in the brackets – much easier than trying to add them after. Seat the pole, tighten any screws, then step back and check it’s level.
Browse our curtain poles in black, chrome, gold, white, antique brass and brushed silver – in sizes from 120cm to 300cm.
At Ooble, we’ve got curtain poles and curtains to sort your windows out properly. Have a browse.