Standard Curtain Rod Sizes (A Complete Guide)

Curtains are an important part of your home decor. They add color and style and can even help with privacy! But before you purchase a curtain rod to hang them on, you’ll want to make sure that it fits properly.

That’s why we’re here to help with the most common question: what are the standard window curtain rod measures?

Standard Curtain Rod Measures

Curtain rods come in a variety of lengths. The dimension of the curtain rod is measured by the distance between the supportive bracket on each end of the rod. Some people assume that all standard curtain rods are the same size, but this isn’t true. There are actually four standard sizes of drapery rods.

1. 28-48 Inches:

Maximum Window Width: 36 inches

This is the minimum size of most common window curtain rods, and it’s ideal for areas with small windows. It’s also a good choice for hanging drapes over sliding glass doors because it can easily fit between the two glass panes. We recommend using a tension rod or telescoping rod if you’re going to hang curtains from this size rod.

2. 48-84 Inches:

Maximum Window Width: 72 inches

This size is right for you if you have a larger window or want more space between the curtains and the wall. This is the most common size for average windows with a 2-3 inches diameter. It will give you plenty of room to hang both your curtains and any additional decorative items you might have hanging on them (like a valance).

3. 66-120 Inches:

Maximum Window Width: 108 inches

If you want to get some extra length out of your curtains for your patio doors and windows or French doors, this option will work well for you. It allows you to hang curtains from the ceiling rather than from a window.

4. 120-170 Inches:

Maximum Window Width: 158 inches

Need more coverage for large picture windows? This size can do it all! Perfect with your fabric wall or if you have multiple windows in one room that need covering up.

This is the largest size common size for curtain rods. It can be useful if you have tall ceilings in your home and need to make sure that no one can see into your windows from outside! It’s also a great choice if you want something that will cover all of those tall windows in your living room or dining room!

If you need extra long curtain rods, you can always have them customized to meet your needs. For safer dimensions, Martha Stewart recommends following the rule of 10s. Also, it would best to note the dos and don’t of installing your curtains. A curtain rod that’s too short can leave you with a gap between your curtains and the wall; one that’s too long will hang awkwardly, taking up space and adding weight to your window.

Curtain Rod Diameters

The most common diameters for metal curtain rods for Designing Idea are ½, ¾, ⅝, and 3 inches. As for wood curtain rods, there are typically only 1 ⅜ to 3 inches curtain rods in diameter.

The diameter of your curtain rod will depend on the style you choose and the window. The diameter of a curtain rod is measured in inches. In general, the larger the diameter, the more weight the rod can hold, which means it’ll be great for heavier fabrics, such as velvet or velour.

But if you’re looking for something a bit lighter and airier, then a smaller diameter could be your friend. Remember that when using a smaller diameter rod, you’ll want to make sure to use lighter curtains, so they don’t sag or weigh down the rod.

How to Calculate the Proper Rod Size for Your Windows

To do this, measure the width of your window at the widest point. This is the number you’ll use to calculate the proper rod size. A good rule of thumb is to add 3-4 inches on both sides of the window frame, so there’s room for your curtains to hang properly. This will give you the total curtain rod length.

You should also take into account how much material you want to drape down and factor that into your measurements. For example, if you have a wide window and want full-length curtains, then you may need to opt for long curtain rods so more material can fit on your rod without looking too bunched up.

Finally, check your walls for any irregularities and measure their depths before purchasing a rod, so it fits inside the walls properly. With all these considerations taken into account, you’ll be able to find the perfect size rod for your space!

Different Curtain Rod Styles

After getting the correct measurements of your curtain rods, it’s time to choose the right style that will fit those sizes. We’re here to help! Here’s a rundown of the most common types of curtain rods:

• Decorative Rods. These are great for hanging sheer drapes or other lightweight fabrics. They can make your windows look really special! Decorative rods are for those who want something more than just functionality. These come in many different colors and styles, so you can find one that matches your home decor. They don’t require any hardware or installation, so they’re easy to put up and take down later if needed!
• Single Rods. Single rods are designed for curtains that do not need to shut completely or aren’t made from heavy fabric. They’re a good choice if you want something simple but still attractive.
• Double Rods. Double curtain rods are useful when you have two different types of curtains on each side of the window—one set that closes completely and another set with sheers that hang open all day long. They’re also great if you have heavy or blackout drapes that need to stack back while still keeping them open enough to let in light during the day!
• Tension Rods. A tension rod is a single-piece spring-loaded adjustable rod with an adjustable clasp on one end that lets you release tension when you need more space between each side of the curtain panel and re-tighten it when things get too close together. They’re perfect for small spaces like shower rooms or bathrooms!
• Traverse Rods. This type of curtain rod can be attached to the wall, ceiling, or window frame. The traverse rod is a great choice for hanging curtains on a window with horizontal top and bottom sills. A traverse rod allows you to slide the curtains back and forth along a track, which makes it easy to open and close them.

How Much Curtain Rods Cost

Best curtain rods cost anywhere from $10 to $100, depending on your choice of material, size, and design.

The cheapest rods are made of plastic or aluminum and can cost as little as $10. They’re perfect for light-colored curtains that won’t be seen behind them.

More expensive options include wood, iron, and brass. Depending on their length and design, these types of rods can cost anywhere between $50-$100 per rod.

FAQs on Curtain Rod Sizes:

Ready to install your new curtain rod but still need to decide what size you need? Here’s a quick FAQ guide to help you out!

Q1: How long should my curtain rod be?

A: The rule of thumb is that the curtain rod should be the width of your window plus 3-6 inches on either side. This will give full coverage across the window and frame your curtains nicely.

Q2: What rod length do I choose if I want curtains to hang right above my floor?

A: If you want your curtains to barely skim the floor, go for a length that’s at least 1-2 inches shorter than your window height. For example, if your window is 66 inches tall, go for a 64 inches curtain rod.

Q3: Should I account for the finials in my measurements?

A: Finials are decorative ends that come on curtain rods and can add something extra to the look of a room. However, make sure to account for their extra length when measuring for your window—it’s about 2″ to 11″ per finial!

Q4: How do I measure my windows?

A: Measure from the top of the window sill to the bottom edge of the window frame. Then add 6″ for clearance on either side and 3″ above it. If there’s a ledge above your wall anchors, add it to your measurements as well.

Q5: Should my curtains need to touch the floor?

Well, that depends.

For a clean and modern look, it’s best to have your curtain reach the floor. But if you’re going for a more traditional look, you can go with whatever length of curtain you want.

Conclusion

Now that you know the proper rod size, it’s time to start shopping!

Keep in mind that the most important thing is finding a rod that is the right length and style for your window treatment. If you’re looking at different styles of curtains, they come in different lengths, so make sure you measure before going out and buying anything.