Curtains can make a room feel taller and more finished, but the effect is controlled by where the pole sits and how far the curtains can stack away from the glass.
Do not automatically reuse the old holes. Measure the window, curtain length, bracket projection and the available wall space so the pole belongs to the new design.
Heavier lined curtains need stronger poles, brackets and fixings. The wall construction matters just as much as the style of the pole.
Tools
What you’ll need to do the job.
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Spirit level or laser
- Pipe and cable detector
- Drill/driver
- Correct drill bit for the substrate
- Screwdriver
- Stable step platform
Materials
What you’ll need to build it.
- Curtain pole sized for the opening and curtain weight
- Brackets and centre support where required
- Wall fixings suited to the substrate and load
- Curtain rings/hooks where required
- Curtains
Step by step
Do it in this order.
Measure the whole composition
Measure the window width, ceiling height, curtain drop and stack back space. Decide how far the pole should extend beyond the opening so curtains can clear more of the glass.
Check the curtain and pole weights
Make sure the pole, brackets and fixing system are suitable for the curtain weight. Long spans often need a centre bracket.
Mark bracket positions
Set a consistent height above the opening and equal extension at each side where the room allows it. Use a level rather than the window head alone.
Check for hidden services
Scan each drilling position and consider how electrical and plumbing services may run around the window before making holes.
Drill and fix for the wall type
Use fixings intended for masonry, studs/noggins, plasterboard or the actual substrate present. Do not rely on generic plugs supplied with a kit if they are wrong for the wall.
Fit and level the pole
Install the outer brackets and any centre support, then check the pole before tightening everything fully.
Hang the curtains and set the heading
Fit rings/hooks consistently and distribute the fabric evenly. Adjust the heading so the curtain stacks neatly.
Check the finished drop and clearance
Make sure the curtains open freely, clear radiators/heat sources where required and meet the floor or sill in the intended way.
Things we’d do
Small choices that make the job better.
- A wider pole can make a small window feel more generous because the curtains stack partly off the glass.
- Use the curtain manufacturer's recommended fullness rather than buying purely by window width.
- A centre bracket is much easier to add before a long pole starts to sag.
- Photograph the Room Studio concept and compare the intended top line before drilling.
Things we wouldn’t
Common shortcuts that usually cost you later.
- Automatically using the old fixing holes when the new curtains need different proportions.
- Using weak plasterboard fixings for heavy lined curtains.
- Mounting brackets without checking whether the pole can actually be removed or the finials fitted.
- Drilling before checking for hidden services.
Before you start
Know where DIY stops.
- Check for concealed pipes and cables before drilling.
- Use a stable step platform and avoid overreaching.
- Keep curtains the required distance from heaters, fires and other heat sources and follow product guidance.