Types of curtain rods: what they are and what they are intended for

How to choose a cornice

The first step is to decide on the curtains. When studying the variety of types of curtains, be guided by the chosen interior style. For example, single curtains are suitable for minimalist designs, and double curtains with decor are suitable for classic designs.

The crossbar must be selected strictly for a specific type of curtain. Recommendations from designers to help:

• Consider the weight and design of the curtains. For models made of light fabrics, any type of cornice is suitable. For heavy curtains, it is better to choose durable designs. For example, ceiling or wall with several brackets.
• Consider what kind of curtain mounts you want to use. It is important that the fasteners move freely along the cornice and fit the design.
• Assess the location of the window sill. If it is high, it is better to give preference to ceiling models.
• Pay attention to where the heating radiators and pipes are located. The structures should not interfere with the free hanging of curtains.

Advice! If the room already has cornices, when choosing, be guided by their appearance and design.

Example of a curtain rod

Photos in the interior of the rooms

The cornice can be either a visible decoration of the room or a hidden one.

Children's

For children, choose eco-friendly wooden rods or the more expressive plastic ones. They have many color combinations, easily match the furniture in the room, are easy to clean and create a truly cozy and small childhood world.

Bedroom

A room that serves as a bedroom is suitable for any option. For example, custom-made forged cornices will add personality to the room and become a real highlight of the interior.

Living room

Cornices are a classic design for living rooms. Hidden design using night lights can also be quite an interesting decorative solution.

Kitchen

Add a touch of cheerfulness and comfort to your living room and set the tone for your kitchen. Practical matte designs are the best choice as they are easier to keep clean.

Types of curtain rods by mounting method

All fastenings are divided into two large groups - wall and ceiling. Let's figure out how to attach cornices, weigh the pros and cons for each option.

Important! You should not use traditional cornices for a suspended ceiling. The canvas may not withstand the load.

Ceiling curtain rod for bay windows

Wall mounted metal curtain rod

Functional meaning

The eaves of a building refers to the lower part of the roof slope. The formation of the architectural element occurs at the stage of assembling the rafter system. The cornice structure can have different designs, but almost all options perform a set of the same tasks. These include the removal of natural precipitation and melt water from the facade, protection of the under-roof space from the penetration of rain, hail, snow, debris, insects and birds. Since the cornice is the visible part of the roof, the aesthetic side and methods of installing drainage channels are additionally considered.

Hidden cornice: features and advantages

In addition to traditional ceiling and wall cornices, there are hidden structures. This is the best option for stretch fabrics.

The structure with curtains will be hidden in a niche, which is specially created when installing the canvas. A bus bar made of plastic, metal or wood is placed in the recess. That is, in fact, you will get a ceiling cornice that will be hidden from view.

Advantages of hidden structures:

• The ceilings are visually raised.
• Suitable for different curtain options.
• They create the effect that the curtains fall straight from the ceiling.
• Suitable for placing hidden lighting and motion sensors.

The only disadvantage of hidden cornices is their complicated installation. It is important not to make a mistake with the depth of the niche. The minimum value is 10 cm. This recess is suitable for curtains without decoration. If you plan to hang curtains with a lambrequin, make a niche 15-20 cm deep.

The second important indicator is the width of the niche. When measuring, you need to start from the type of window sill. The more it protrudes, the wider the niche should be. The optimal indicator is 15-25 cm.

Hidden cornice for suspended ceiling

Roof overhang lining device

Let's first figure out what roof eaves lining is.

The roof eaves lining has the following design options:

By the way, soffits are not necessary - in most cases, solid or partially perforated panels are sufficient:

Options for curtain rods by material type

The durability and reliability of structures directly depends on the material. Let's discuss what kinds of cornices there are and what their features are.

Metal

Manufacturers most often use stainless steel or brass to make curtain rods. There are two types of metal products on sale: forged and cast. Both curtain holders are equally reliable.

Metal curtain rods can withstand heavy curtains without bending or breaking. However, there is also a minus - a massive design. For this reason, metal crossbars should not be mounted on plasterboard walls.

Important! If the crossbar is longer than 1.5 m, additional brackets will be required to secure it.

Metal cornice with decorative element

Wooden

Wooden cornices are made from beech, birch, walnut and other types of wood with pronounced natural patterns. The crossbars last a long time - the minimum service life is 5 years.

In the assortment of wooden structures you will find baguette, round, spacer models, and cafe cornices. You can choose designer products to suit a specific interior style.

Wooden cornice with baguette

Plastic

Most plastic models are ceiling-mounted. The range also includes round designs for wall mounting, but they are only suitable for light curtains.

Plastic curtain rods are less strong and durable than wooden and metal ones. But in this category there are more design options. In modern interiors there are often models stylized as wood or painted in unexpected bright shades.

Plastic cornice with baguette

Combined

To make such cornices, combinations of materials are used. For example, the bar may be wooden, and the brackets may be metal. Or vice versa. The photo shows an impressive combined model that will make window decoration even more attractive.

Curtain rod made of metal and wood

Types of curtain rods by appearance

The aesthetic appeal of curtain slats is not the last parameter of choice. However, it is important that the fastenings are not only beautiful, but also comfortable. We offer seven varieties of curtain rods that meet these requirements.

Round

Round or tubular cornice is the most popular variety from the range. The design is a solid, sliding or composite rod with tips.

You can choose standard single-row models and double-row designs for attaching double curtains. The second element of the cornices is designed to fix light fabrics, therefore it has a smaller diameter.

Round curtain rod with shaped tip

Baguettes

Baguette cornices consist of a fastening profile and a decorative strip that hides pipes and strings. The result is an impressive design for curtains and drapes.

Ceiling cornice with baguette

Strings

Cornices consist of two brackets and a thick string between them. If you plan to hang multi-layer curtains, give preference to products with several slats.

Brackets and strings are most often made of stainless steel. The second option is products made from polymers. However, such cornices have much less strength.

Advice! Place curtains made of light fabrics on string cornices. The structure may break under the weight of the curtains.

Metal string curtain rod

Tire

Busbar or profile cornices are plastic panels with several rows for hooks. These mounts are suitable for ceiling and wall mounting. In the second case, brackets will be required for fixation.

Curtain rods can have one, two or three rows. Some models are equipped with an electric drive for remote control using a remote control.

Tire multi-row curtain rod

Telescopic

Such cornices are also called stained glass. The structures consist of two elements of different diameters and tips. If necessary, you can easily increase the length of the rod by spreading the tubes.

Telescopic structures can be mounted on walls or directly on the window frame. For the second method, curtain rods that are equipped with brackets with a sticky base are suitable.

Telescopic vintage curtain rod

Cornices-cafe

Lightweight designs with thin rods and shaped tips. They are designed to be mounted directly to the frame. Most often they are mounted at the level of the middle of the window to hang spectacular decorative curtains.

Cafe curtain rod for curtains

Spacers

Spacer cornices are a rod with a spring inside. Such structures do not need to be mounted on brackets - they are held perfectly in the openings due to plastic or rubber tips.

Metal spacer cornice

Types of cornices of different shapes with photos and descriptions of mounting to the wall

We have already analyzed the types of cornices by design, installation method and materials. It's time to discuss the configuration of the structures. Here are six possible options.

Round

Many people confuse these curtain rods with regular round rods. However, there are non-standard designs designed for attaching partitions or textile decor.

Most designs from this category look like in the photo. The barbell in the form of a hoop is fixed to strips fixed to the ceiling.

Ceiling round cornice for decorative curtains

Semicircular

Semicircular or arc cornices are designed for decorating bay windows and placing decorative textile elements. The products are curved round rods made of metal or plastic. Most often they are fixed on figured brackets.

Ceiling semicircular curtain rod

Direct

Cornices for standard window openings. They can be either wall or ceiling. A distinctive feature is the absence of bends. A popular option from this category is shown in the photo.

Straight wall curtain rod

Corner

A corner cornice is an indispensable attribute for decorating windows located on adjacent surfaces. This is a convenient option if you don't want to mount two separate bars or bars.

The process of installing corner elements is simple - just fix the ends of the curved crossbar on two walls or ceiling. In the photo you will see how to do this.

Corner ceiling curtain rod

L-shaped

Such cornices are a type of corner cornices, so they need to be fixed according to a similar principle. The only difference between the L-shaped models is that one side of the bar is much shorter than the other.

Important! L-shaped crossbars are indispensable if you need to hang a mini-curtain or a fabric partition in a room for zoning.

L-shaped curtain rod

Rotary

Rotating cornices are curved rods with movable elements. If desired, you can easily change the bending radius and mount the mount on window openings of a non-standard configuration.

Swivel curtain rod for bay windows

Flexible

Such cornices are an aluminum or plastic strip with rows for fastenings. Flexible designs are suitable for window openings of non-standard shape.

Cornices can be used not only for placing curtains on windows, but also for installing screens, canopies, and curtains in doorways.

Flexible curtain rod for custom-shaped window openings

Advice! Flexible cornices are suitable for decorating windows in bay windows of various shapes.

Flexible wall bars - a stylish design solution for a modern home

Those who constantly keep their finger on the pulse know that today flexible curtain rods are extremely popular. They are able to transform the interior beyond recognition. Such designs appeared relatively recently.

They can take any shape due to their flexibility.

This allows designers to implement any ideas in the home interior. Flexible crossbars are sold in the form of a long strip. Its total length can reach six meters.

When installing, the length can be adjusted with a regular hacksaw.

Types of cornices by number of rows

Another important classification of curtain rods is based on the number of rows for placing curtains. Three categories of designs:

• Single-row: round, string, profile. Designed for fastening one blade.
• Double-row: tire, baguette, round. Suitable for double curtains.
• Three-row: tire structures with grooves for fastenings. The range also includes wall-mounted round cornices with extended brackets for fixing the crossbars. With the help of such systems, you can place several canvases and textile decor, for example, lambrequins.

Single row curtain rod

Double row curtain rod

Three-row rail curtain rod

Types of eaves control

For ordinary curtains, a familiar mechanical curtain rod will do. You will have to control the position of the curtains manually, that is, you will have to move the curtains apart and move them yourself.

If you choose Austrian, Roman, French or Japanese curtains, you must purchase a motorized curtain rod. Possible options:

• Lifting devices. Systems for curtains that need to be lifted upward. Such models are ideal for Roman and Austrian curtains. Such cornices can be open or closed. The mechanisms are also distinguished by the control method and the maximum lifting height.
• Sliding devices. Such electric curtain rods are suitable for various roll sheets that will be moved apart horizontally. For example, Japanese curtains. The system consists of a sliding mechanism, an electric drive and a structure for manual control.
• Combined devices. Such cornices are suitable for curtain panels. This system combines the ability to manually control and move the blades using an electric drive.

You can control the curtain rods using levers or remote controls. Many manufacturers have already begun to equip devices with special sensors that respond to movements or lighting levels. These models are compatible with the smart home system.

Electric sliding curtain rod

Video description

The video talks about the installation of a front-type cornice:
See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in roofing work

Dimensions

To understand how to make a cornice correctly, it is necessary, in addition to taking into account the design, to make calculations based on dimensions. If you allow the installation of an excessively narrow overhang, this may negatively affect the overall condition of the building’s foundation. Exceeding the dimensions increases the load on the supporting structures and rafter system. As a guide, you can use the recommendations that are prescribed in SNB 3.02.04 from 2003 and SNiP ⅠⅠ-26 from 1976.

To determine the dimensions of the cornice, you need to consider the following points:

• Climate. The greater the amount of precipitation in a particular area, the longer the cornice should be. The lower limit is considered to be 400 mm. It is observed in areas where hurricane winds prevail. In snowy regions, the limits are 600 mm for the side type and 1200 mm for the front type. In the mountains the parameters are increased to 1-3 meters.

Classic version of a narrow overhang Source colormedia.com.pl

• Slope. The dependence here is as follows: a smaller angle means a shorter overhang. For a round roof, the eaves are increased.
• Roof. Here it is worth highlighting the seam coating and canvases based on bitumen resins. Such solutions require the installation of good ventilation of the under-roof space. This can be achieved with wide overhangs with a large number of holes.

Additionally, experts recommend considering the parameters of the structure itself. This is more about the visual effect. A wide overhang and a flat roof reduce the height, a round roof in combination with a narrow overhang increases it.

How to attach curtains to a cornice: options with photos

If you have already chosen a curtain rod, it's time to think about how to hang curtains correctly. Let's look at different methods.

Kuliska

This fastening is the simplest option for curtains and light curtains. The first step is to make a drawstring. It is enough to fold the top edge of the fabric and carefully sew along the entire length of the fabric. You should get a fairly wide hole into which to insert the rod.

Drawstring fastening is suitable for wall round cornices. The first step is to hang the curtains, and then attach the bar over the opening.

Lightweight drawstring curtains

Loops

To secure the curtains, you need to sew fabric loops to the top of the curtains. If you want the curtains to hang in neat folds, place the fasteners at an equal distance from each other.

Advice! The design will look more aesthetically pleasing if the loops are made approximately 1.5 times wider than the rod.

Fixing curtains on hinges

Ties

The tie fastening is very similar to the loop method. You need to sew beautiful ribbons to the top of the fabric, then tie them one by one above the bar.

This option is not suitable for all interior styles. Bow ties on the curtains will fit well into such trends as retro Provence, country, eco, pop art.

Fixing curtains with ties

Rings

This method differs from the previous ones in that you must first string the clamps onto the rod and only then hang the curtains. Rings can be attached to fabric using special hooks or clips.

Feel free to use this method if you want to hang heavy curtains. The fasteners will not break under load - they are designed for quite a large weight of curtains.

Fixing curtains with rings

Advice! It is better to use rings that are sold with a cornice. If they are not included in the kit, you must choose fasteners made of a similar material.

Eyelets

Eyelets are neat, equally spaced holes in the upper part of the fabric. It is through them that the cornice rod will pass.

This method is suitable if you have chosen thin metal or wooden cornices. However, consider the type of curtain fabric. Eyelets do not always look appropriate on airy, lightweight fabrics.

Fixing curtains with grommets

Hooks

Fastening with hooks is suitable for closed cornices: rail, baguette. The fasteners do not have a decorative function, so they look unpretentious. Most often they are made of plastic and metal. The first option is preferable for light curtains, the second for heavy curtains.

Fixing curtains on hidden hooks

Clothespins

Clothes pins for curtains are otherwise called “crocodiles” or “crabs”. They are compatible with both closed track structures and round cornices. In the second case, the fastenings will be conspicuous, so the type of fabric must be taken into account. Ordinary metal “crabs” will effectively complement heavy curtains made of velvet, brocade, and jacquard. For light curtains, it is better to choose convenient magnetic clips. They hold the canvas tightly without damaging the fabric.

Fixing curtains with crocodile clips

With our tips, choosing a cornice will turn into an exciting experience. You will cope with the task perfectly!

Additional accessories

Accessories can add charm and increase the practicality of window decoration.

1. Rings and eyelets - if you choose one of these fastening options, then the parts themselves must be combined with the cornice. It is desirable that they be made of the same or similar material with a similar color. Although in some cases it is appropriate to use a contrasting shade.
2. Magnetic clips - they are installed as an alternative to loops, eyelets, hooks and other types of holders. They are convenient because you do not need to additionally process the edge of the curtain.
3. Fleurons are decorative tips on tubular samples. They have a variety of shapes, from the simplest nondescript plugs to forged openwork elements with decorations.