Standard Curtain Rod Sizes (with Drawings)

Choosing the suitable fabric for curtains can be a challenge, but don’t forget to select the proper hardware. It’s just as important to choose the right curtain rod as it is to choose the right curtain. Use this guide to determine the size and type of curtain rod you need to fit best in your home.

Curtain rods come in four standard lengths. Standard curtain rods are 28 to 48 inches, 48 to 84 inches, 66 to 120 inches, and 120 to 170 inches. The average diameter for a curtain rod is 1 to 3 inches.

Curtain rods are available in a variety of lengths, but there are four standard sizes you’ll find in stores. Standard curtain rods are 28 to 48 inches, 48 to 84 inches, 66 to 120 inches, and 120 to 170 inches.

While these options are appropriate for most common window sizes, sometimes it’s best to order adjustable rods. Adjustable rods can accommodate a broader range of window sizes. Ordering custom curtain rods is also an option if you have a unique window size.

Curtain rod diameters typically measure between 1 to 3 inches. However, the most common diameter of curtain rods is 1 ⅜ inch to 2 inches. These are typically for windows measuring between 66 to 120 inches.

28 to 48-inch curtain rods are the smallest size rods for your smallest windows. These rods are best suited for kitchen curtains, bathroom windows, or partially glass doors you want to hang a curtain on.

For small windows like these, a curtain rod with a ⅝” diameter may be best to fit the space properly. However, keep in mind, if the fabric is heavier, the rod may bow. Therefore, if you have a heavier curtain material, choose a rod with at least a 1-inch diameter.

Any curtain rod longer than 60 inches is considered an extra-long rod. Due to the extra length, you should consider additional support brackets when installing 66 to 120-inch curtain rods.

Depending on the type of curtain, you will likely want a diameter rod of at least one inch. However, a larger diameter would work better, adding more support for multiple drapery panels. Plus, the wider diameter makes the rod look less flimsy as well.

You typically need 66 to 120-inch curtain rods when covering a group of windows, french doors, or patio doors.

A 120 to 170-inch curtain rod is the largest standard-size curtain rod. You definitely want to use extra support to prevent sagging when you hang curtains.

The minimum diameter needed for this rod is 1 ⅛ inch. Although, again, a larger diameter will look and feel more substantial.

You can use a rod of this length to create fabric walls or cover large windows. Some 120 to 170-inch curtain rods come with up to six brackets for hanging and multiple rod pieces. These rod pieces will fit together to create the total length.

Hanging a curtain rod 3 to 6 inches wider than the frame on each side can make the windows feel larger. It also allows extra light when the curtains are open because the fabric won’t hang in front of the glass. If you want to display the window molding, you can leave 12 inches on either side of the window.

If you choose to display the molding, make sure to adjust your curtain rod measurements accordingly. Some people even hang curtains across the entire length of a wall.

This is an especially effective design trick when you want to center a large furniture item on a wall with an off-centered window. For example, it works if you need to center a bed on the wall, but the window is awkwardly placed. Hanging curtains across the entire wall can keep your design balanced.

Whether you choose to hang your curtain rod above the window frame or wider than the window frame is ultimately a matter of personal preference. However, one thing remains true: the proper placement of curtain rods is centered on the windows. You want to allow for space on either side of the windows so that the curtains can rest against the wall when they’re opened and do not block the window.

Generally, this adds between three and six inches on either side, but the measurement can vary depending on your individual taste, the space you have to work with, and the curtains themselves.

Related Questions

Do curtain rods have to be hung on studs?

While hanging curtain rods on studs is always ideal, there may not be studs available to hang the curtain rod correctly in relation to your window. Though, even if your wall may be able to hold a curtain rod and curtains, the constant opening and closing of the curtains can eventually pull the rod loose from the wall.In this case, wall anchors are highly advised. Wall anchors will grip the drywall, yielding a sturdy support system for hanging heavy objects.

How long should curtains be?

When determining how long your curtains should be, first consider the length and width of the fabric. You should hang drapes ½ inch off the floor so that they don’t collect dust. This also draws the eye up, which makes the room feel bigger. If you have heavier fabrics, add another ¼ inch to ½ inch of spacing, as these curtains will stretch over time. If you have uneven floors, curtains that extend onto the floor a few inches are more forgiving.

How wide should curtains be?

When it comes to curtain width, you want the curtains to look full when closed. Therefore, don’t simply purchase curtains the same width as your window. The width of the fabric should be one and a half to two times wider than the area you’re covering. If you want a more gathered, fuller look, you’ll need even more width.  You can create a lavish, plush window treatment with lots of gathering by using multiple curtain panels. To determine how many curtain panels you need, divide the total width of the window by the width of the panel. Multiply the window width by two and a half to three if you want tightly gathered, full curtains. Divide this total by the width of a single curtain panel to get the number of panels you need.