Are you shopping for curtain rods?

It’s a small decision that can have a big impact on your room’s overall look and feel. Whether you’re aiming for a stylish upgrade or just want your curtains to hang perfectly, choosing the right rod is more important than you might think.

In this guide, we’ll dive into all the things you need to consider when picking a curtain rod. We’ll cover those tricky questions—how far it should extend beyond the window, the best height to hang it and how to match the style to your space.

By the time we’re done, you’ll be ready to choose the perfect curtain rod that not only works but also makes your room look great.

Types of Curtain Rods and Which Is the Best

When you're shopping for curtain rods, you'll come across all sorts of options like double rods, concealed rods, traverse rods, café curtain rods and decorative rods. They all have their places, but not all rods are created equal. It’s important to know what types will not serve you well.

Steer Clear of Telescoping and Tension Rods

The first thing you need to keep in mind when shopping for a curtain rod is to steer clear of telescoping and tension rods especially. While they might seem convenient and they are cheaper than other rods, you’ll end up paying for it in the long run. Telescoping and tension rods often sag or even fall under the weight of high-quality curtains, and let's be honest—they look cheap. Because of all of this, they need to be replaced more often which just ends up costing you more money.

Choose High Quality, Versatile Curtain Rods

Instead, opt for something that not only holds up but also adds a touch of style, like the curtain rods from Highland Forge. These rods are more than just functional; they’re versatile, sturdy, and crafted to enhance the beauty of your curtains and your entire room. Whether you're going for a sleek, modern look or something more classic, Highland Forge curtain rods offer the perfect combination of durability and style, making them a standout addition to any decor.

Consider the Material

As you pick your curtain rods, you’ll need to think about the materials they are made from. They include:

• Steel
• Stainless steel
• Wood
• Plastic
• Aluminum

Steel and stainless steel curtain rods are the top choices for a reason. They’re incredibly strong, meaning they won’t bend or sag. Plus, they’re low-maintenance, resisting rust and wear over time. They offer a great combination of strength and style, ensuring your curtains stay securely in place while adding an elegant touch to your space.

Matching Curtain Rods with Interior Style

Matching curtain rods with your interior style is all about finding the right balance between form and function. If your home has more of a traditional look, you might want to go for rods with more ornate designs and classic finishes, such as the Dark Antique Brass or the Dark Bronze from Highland Forge.

On the other hand, if your style is more modern, sleek metal rods with minimalistic finials in finishes like Iron Black, Glossy Brass and Satin Nickel could be just the thing to complement your space.

The material of your curtain rod also plays a big role in the overall aesthetic. Metal rods fit well in any space and are very strong. A carefully chosen curtain rod can elevate the entire look of your room, making your windows a standout feature.

Determining the Right Length and Diameter

Let’s look at choosing the length and diameter for your curtain rod.

Choosing the Length

First, let’s talk about length. A good rule of thumb is to have your curtain rod extend about 6-12 inches past the window frame on each side. This is all dependent on aesthetics, space considerations, and the size of your window. It not only allows your curtains to fully cover the window when closed but also makes the window appear larger and lets in more light when the curtains are open.

Choosing the Diameter

Next up is diameter. The thickness of your curtain rod should be chosen based on the weight of your curtains, the overall style you’re going for, and the span between brackets. For example, at Highland Forge, we recommend that a 1" rod does not exceed a 90" span between brackets. This ensures that your rod remains sturdy and secure, especially with heavier drapes.

For lightweight curtains or sheers, a slimmer rod can work just fine, adding a delicate touch to the space while maintaining proper support. The right diameter not only supports your curtains but also complements the room’s design.

Choosing the Final Touches

Choosing the right finials and brackets for your curtain rod is all about adding that final touch of personality and ensuring solid support. Drapery finials and French Returns come in a variety of styles to suit many different aesthetics. These little details can make a big impact on your room’s decor—whether you’re going for a modern, minimalist look or something with a bit more flair.

As for curtain rod brackets, they play a crucial role in keeping your curtain rod sturdy and in place. Generally, you’ll need at least two brackets for a standard window, but for longer rods or heavier curtains, adding extra brackets is a good idea. Make sure to place the brackets evenly and securely to ensure your curtain rod holds up well. With the right finials and properly installed brackets, your curtain rod will not only function flawlessly but also add a stylish touch to your windows.

Choosing the perfect curtain rod involves more than just picking a style—it’s about finding the right length, diameter and materials to match your home’s décor and functional needs. With so many factors to consider, it’s great to have options that fit both your taste and practical requirements. Highland Forge offers a fantastic range of custom curtain rods and curated collections to meet every need.

For more information, give us a call at 866-716-7555 or email us at sales@highlandforge.com to discuss your many options.