Measuring for curtain rods involves three essential steps: rod width, mounting height, and bracket placement. If the rod is too narrow or sits too low, the window looks smaller and more crowded. The right measurements can make the same window look taller and wider before you even hang the curtains. Start by measuring how far the rod should extend past the window frame. Then decide how high to mount it. Finally, mark the bracket locations so the rod stays level and has the support it needs.
When learning how to measure for curtain rods, use these curtain rod placement guidelines:
- Extend the rod 4–6 inches past each side of the window frame.
- Mount it 4–6 inches above the frame, or 1- 2 inches below the crown molding for more height.
- Place brackets just past each side of the window frame.
- Use the provided center bracket for support for rods longer than 60 inches.
How to Hang
Before comparing curtain rod sizes, gather a few basic tools:
- Steel tape measure
- Pencil
- Level
- Stud finder if you will be mounting into drywall
Avoid a fabric tape measure, which can stretch and give inaccurate readings.
Start by measuring the window frame width. Then measure from the top of the frame to the ceiling to see how much mounting space you have.
There are several questions often asked before installing curtain rods for the first time:
- How long should a curtain rod be?
- How wide should curtain rods be?
- How far should a curtain rod extend past the window?
A curtain rod should extend 4–6 inches beyond each side of the window frame. That makes the full rod 8–12 inches wider than the window itself. The extra space gives the curtain panels room to stack off the glass when open. Designers call this bunched fabric 'stackback'.
Measure the window width first, then determine the desired rod extension on each side. Keep in mind that the specified rod length and the total rod plus finial length are not the same. Decorative finials or endcaps extend beyond the ends of the rod, so account for their dimensions when checking available wall space.
Next, decide how high to hang the curtain rod above the window. For a classic look, mount the curtain rod 4–6 inches above the top of the window frame. If you want the room to seem taller, place it 1 to 2 inches below the crown molding
Keep in mind that higher curtain rod placement changes the panel length you need. Decide how high to hang the rod before ordering curtains. Make sure the panels still reach the floor or sill at the right length.
If you’re deciding where to place curtain rod brackets, start 3–6 inches beyond the window frame on each side. This accounts for the extra rod width needed to let the curtains clear the glass when open.
For rods over 60 inches, use the supplied center support bracket. If additional center brackets are supplied, space them evenly and position a support at each rod joint.
Heavy or lined curtains may need extra support even on shorter rods. Before drilling, use a stud finder. A bracket secured to a stud can hold more weight than one mounted with drywall anchors alone.
Installing Solid Brass
Knowing how to measure for curtain rods is key, especially when using solid brass hardware. Solid brass rods are heavier than aluminum or most plated options. Bracket spacing and stud placement need to be accurate from the start.
Get those measurements right once, and the rod can stay securely mounted for years. For installation guidance on brass hardware, see Modern Matter’s installation instructions.
These final checks ensure you choose the right rod size and placement:
- Measure the window frame width and the space above it before shopping.
- Use 8–12 inches of added total width
- Plan for center support for rods longer than 60 inches.
Once you set your measurements, explore Modern Matter’s solid brass drapery hardware.
Extend the rod 4–6 inches beyond each side of the window frame and mount it 4–6 inches above the frame or 1- 2 inches below the crown molding. That adds about 8–12 inches of total width. It also gives the window a more balanced look.
For a 72-inch window, choose a rod that is about 80–84 inches long. That gives you 4–6 inches of extra width on each side, which helps the curtain panels clear the glass when they are open.
Start by measuring the window frame width and the space above it. Choose a rod that extends 8–12 inches beyond the frame’s total width. The rod diameter should also fit inside the curtain panel’s rod pocket or through the rings you plan to use.
Plan for the rod to extend 4–6 inches past the window frame on each side. This gives the curtain panels enough room to stack without blocking the glass when open. It also keeps the brackets from sitting too close to the trim.
Place the brackets 3–6 inches beyond the window frame on each side and keep them at the same height. Use a level to check your marks before drilling. If the rod is longer than 60 inches, add a center support bracket.
Mount the rod 4–6 inches above the window frame for a classic look. For more height, place it 1 to 2 inches below the crown molding. Decide on the mounting height before ordering curtain panels. A higher rod will need longer curtains.
