Curtain pole buying guide

The position of your curtain pole is the first thing to consider. It can be placed on the wall above the window, on the ceiling, in between two walls or directly on to the window itself. Where it is placed will determine which type you choose, the size and which brackets you will use.

Next, you will need to choose between the traditional curtain pole, a flat or rounded, extendable, double or even triple pole. Curtain tracks, or traverse rods can be adapted to fit many different types of layout with the window curtain pole attached directly to the window or door. It is also possible to go for a metal pole, which is more subtle, but mainly used for more lightweight voiles.

Now you need to choose the material for your curtain pole. This decision is by and large a matter of taste: would you prefer wood, metal or plastic? And then of course you have the accessories including the finials, which are placed either side of the pole to complete the design.

The set-up will be dictated by the way you hang your curtains and there are many different ways to do this:

• wall mounting, which is the most popular option. The curtain pole is placed about 15 cm above the window;

• the ceiling mount is the best option when there is limited space between the top of the window and the ceiling. With this set-up make sure you have the appropriate brackets;

• to fix curtains between two adjacent walls, or directly inside a window recess, the pole can be fixed directly on to the wall, this time using recess support brackets;

• if you have bay windows or if you wish you use half window curtains you can fix the pole to the window frame itself. You can also opt for frame mounting to attach the pole using suction cups, glue, screws or nails.

There are many different types of curtain poles to choose from based on your taste and the style of window you have:

• the traditional curtain pole with a rounded or flat profile;

• curtain tracks, (also known as traverse rods). The curtains are attached to gliding hooks that move along a plastic runner on the inside of the track, operated by a rope or cord. This type of curtain pole is flexible and can even be installed on an angle to suit to the different types of window set-ups;

• window rails are usually smaller in size so that they can be fixed directly to the window frame;

• door rails are specifically designed to be fitted on a pivotal point so that they can move with the closing and opening of the door;

• the extendable pole which allows you to adapt the length to your exact required measurements;

• self-locking rails can be fitted without using a drill and can be easily screwed and unscrewed in different places andmounted between two walls or directly to the frame.

It is necessary to take into consideration the diameter and length of the curtain pole.

Curtain pole diameter

As well as being guided by style and taste, the diameter of your curtain pole is dictated by the weight of your curtains. If a small diameter (around 16-20 mm) is suitable for lighter curtains, you'll want to go for a curtain pole with a greater diameter (around 28-35 mm) for curtains with heavier materials, such as blackout curtains.

Curtain pole length

The length of the pole or track varies according to the hanging and placement of the curtains:

• for wall and ceiling mounted curtains, the length of the pole will depend on the length of the window, to which you should add about 15-20 cm on each side ensuring there is plenty of space for the curtains to be drawn back;

• when fixing a curtain pole between two walls with bay windows, for example, the length of the curtain pole should be equal to the distance of the space between the two walls, minus the space taken up by the two recess brackets (normally around 1 cm);

• for a window rail, the length of the curtain pole must correspond with the dimensions of the window frame;

• for a door rail, the measurements to take into account are those going from the bracket to the edge of the door frame.

You have the choice of different materials to match the décor of your home:

• wood is the classic option, for a curtain pole that gives a traditional look;

• metal curtain poles come in steel, brass and even wrought iron, and can have a painted, chrome and acrylic finish, creating a more modern feel;

• plastic curtain poles are the least expensive option, but should be used mainly for lightweight and net curtains.

Curtain poles come with a number of accessories.

Choosing standard or recess brackets

You have the choice of different types of brackets, in terms of material and size (short, long, adjustable, etc.) to suit the type of curtain pole.

Equally important is considering how they will need to be attached; fixed to the wall or to the ceiling, remembering that fixing them between two walls will mean using recess brackets. Depending on the type, they can be attached with screws or suction cups.

Double and even triple brackets are available, allowing you to fix two or three curtain poles on to the same window. This means you could have voiles at the back and blackout curtains at the front, for example.

Finally, you need think about the size of the curtain pole that will be held up. If it is very long, don't be afraid to use a third bracket in the centre of pole.

Finials: decorative and functional accessories

Finials play both a decorative and functional role. Available in all different shapes, sizes, colours and styles, they essentially act as an ornament, accentuating each end of the curtain pole. However, finials also stop the curtains from being able to open all the way.

Joining splices: for connecting two curtain rails

Joining splices (also known as connecting splices or connectors) allow two curtain poles to join together when the windows are very large. Angled connector joints are also available.