How To Measure For Curtain Rod Brackets
Selecting your curtain brackets starts with determining the appropriate Clearance, Return, and Projection.
To get started, here is an illustration to help you understand the three.
A = Clearance
Clearance is the open/free space between the back of your drapery and the wall/window. It is measured from the back of the curtain rod/drapery to the wall/window.
B = Return
Return is the point where your drapery will hang once place on the rod, the number of inches from that point back to the wall. It is measured from the center of the curtain bracket cup to the wall. This is the point where your drapery will hang
C = Projection
Projection is the measurement of the full extension of the curtain rod bracket, front to back, from the mounting plate to the outer point/end. It is measured from the front of the bracket back to the wall. This is the overall extension of the bracket, front to back.
CWF PRO TIPS: Number of brackets required.
For 1 3/8 Inch Diameter Wood Poles: Two curtain rod brackets are sufficient up to a width of 60 inches (5 feet). For poles over 60 inches, we recommend the third bracket in the center to serve as a center support.
For 2 inch diameter and 3-inch diameter wood poles: Two brackets are sufficient up to a width of 96 inches (8 feet). However, we recommend using a center bracket at a width of 96 inches adding the bracket at the center will offer additional support and help distribute the weight of the rod and drapery evenly, making it a more secure installation. Over 96 inches, a third rod bracket is required as a center support; this is mandatory!
- Having said that, a 2 inch or 3-inch diameter pole can span a distance up to a full 12-feet without flexing or bowing using only two end brackets. However, if you choose this type of installation, you or your installer need to make certain that the end brackets are installed in a manner sufficiently secure to carry the weight of the pole and draperies.
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In other words, whilst covering a long span, two brackets installed with anchors or molly bolts is not enough! Please make sure that the end brackets are installed into a stud. It is very dangerous to install this type of drapery in any other manner.
- Always keep in mind that what keeps your drapery pole up securely are not the brackets themselves but the way the brackets are installed and secured to the wall.
Metal telescoping rods such as the Kirsch Designer Metals 1 3/8 inch diameter curtain rods are sold with an appropriate number of brackets required for its installation. Additional brackets are not necessary but recommended if you are concerned about the weight of your drapery, or you want to make your rod more secure.
Metal curtain rods, such as Aria Drapery Hardware 1 1/8 inch diameter curtain rods or Kirsch Drapery Hardware 1 3/8 inch Designer Metals 8-foot long rods, do not come with brackets.
- For metal curtain rods ranging from 1 inch to 1 ½ inch diameters, two brackets up to a 60-inch (5 feet) span are sufficient. Over 60 inches, three brackets are recommended.
Wrought Iron curtain rods, such as Kirsch 1 inch diameter wrought iron curtain rods, or LJB Drapery Hardware wrought iron 1 1/2 inch and 1 inch diameters can cover a span of up to 8-foot with only two end brackets!
Still have questions or concerns? Give us a holler and we will take care of you right quick!