If you live in an old house, you know how charming and cozy it can be. But you also know how challenging it can be to decorate it with modern amenities and style. One of the most common dilemmas is how to hang curtains in old houses without damaging the walls or windows.
Hanging curtains in old houses can be tricky, but not impossible. You just need to choose the right hardware, measure carefully, and follow some simple steps. Here are some tips and tricks to help you hang curtains like a pro in your old house.
The first thing you need to do is choose the right hardware for your curtains. You will need a curtain rod, brackets, rings or clips, screws, anchors, and a drill. Depending on the style and weight of your curtains, you may also need a center bracket or a valance.
There are different types of curtain rods available, such as wood, metal, or wrought iron. You can choose one that matches your decor and period of your house. For example, if you have an Empire-style room, you can opt for a decorative rod with a laurel wreath center and anthemion finials1. If you have a Craftsman-style room, you can go for a simple round iron rod with ferrules.
The brackets are the supports that hold the rod on the wall. You can choose between single brackets that mount inside the window frame, return brackets that mount on the wall beside the window frame, or ceiling brackets that mount on the ceiling above the window frame. The type of bracket you choose will depend on how much space you have around your window and how high you want to hang your curtains.
The rings or clips are the attachments that connect your curtains to the rod. You can choose between grommets, which are metal-lined holes in the curtains; tabs, which hang above the top edge of the curtain; rings, which clip onto the curtain and hang on the rod; or pocket sleeves, which slide over and completely conceal the rod. The type of ring or clip you choose will depend on the style and fabric of your curtains.
The next thing you need to do is measure your window and your curtains carefully. You will need a tape measure, a pencil, and a level.
To measure your window’s width, height, and position between the ceiling and floor, use a tape measure and mark the dimensions with a pencil. To measure your curtains’ width and length, lay them flat on the floor or a table and use a tape measure.
To determine how wide your rod should be, add 2-5 inches to each side of your window frame if you want your curtains to partially cover the window; or add 8-15 inches to each side of your window frame if you want your curtains to completely clear the window when open. To fine-tune this measurement, use a stud finder to locate the studs beside the window and adjust your placement accordingly.
To determine how high your rod should be, add 4 inches above your window frame if you want a standard look; or add more inches if you want to make your room feel taller. Keep in mind that floor-length curtain panels come in standard heights of 84 inches, 95 inches, 108 inches, and 120 inches. If you decide to move the rod up, you may need to buy longer panels and hem them to length or spend more money on custom curtains.
To determine how long your curtains should be, subtract 4 inches from your rod height if you want them to sit slightly off the floor; subtract 2 inches if you want them to barely skim the floor; or add 2-4 inches if you want them to puddle on the floor5. The length of your curtains may also vary depending on the type of ring or clip you use.
The last thing you need to do is follow some simple steps to hang your curtains in your old house.
Q: How do I hang curtains in old houses without drilling holes?
A: If you don’t want to drill holes in your old house walls, you can use alternative methods such as tension rods, command hooks, magnetic rods, or adhesive strips. However, these methods may not be as sturdy or reliable as drilling holes and using anchors.
Q: How do I hang curtains in old houses with plaster walls?
A: If you have plaster walls in your old house, you need to be extra careful when drilling holes and installing brackets. You need to use a masonry bit to drill holes and use plastic anchors or toggle bolts to secure the brackets. You also need to avoid drilling near cracks or seams in the plaster.
Q: How do I hang curtains in old houses with uneven windows?
A: If you have uneven windows in your old house, you need to use a level to make sure your rod is straight and your curtains are even. You can also use adjustable brackets or rods that allow you to adjust the height or angle of the rod. You can also trim or hem your curtains to make them match the window shape.
Hanging curtains in old houses can be a fun and rewarding project that can transform the look and feel of your rooms. You just need to choose the right hardware, measure carefully, and follow some simple steps. With these tips and tricks, you can hang curtains like a pro in your old house and enjoy the cozy and charming atmosphere they create.
Dale is the colorful mind behind HuetifulHomes.com, where he shows you how to create a home that is as fun and fabulous as you are. He has a passion for color and a knack for DIY, with years of interior design experience he shares his tips and tricks on how to create a home that reflects your personality and style. He believes that color is the key to happiness, and he wants to help you make your home more Huetiful.
