What type of window treatment hardware do I choose?

Window treatment hardware consists of the ornamental and functional components that turn plain curtains and drapes into beautiful and decorative window coverings. Curtain rods and hardware are offered in a variety of styles that include wood, metal, iron, ceramic, and even glass. Here are some questions to consider in choosing window-covering hardware:

 

·        Do you want the window hardware to stand out or be “invisible?”

·        Will the curtains or drapery open and close or remain stationary?

·        Are you layering window coverings (such as drapes over sheers) in a way that requires two or more rods?

·        Does the hardware enhance or detract from your décor and window treatment?

 

There are several types of curtain rods, including:

·        Tension or pressure rods – used inside of window frame and held in place by the pressure of a spring inside the rod. This rod does not use mounting brackets and screws, and therefore does not damage the woodwork.

·        Cafe rods – used for hand-drawn window treatments, usually with rings or tie-tab curtains.

·        Sash rods - use shallow mounting brackets so window

treatments hang close to the glass.

 

Other types of window hardware include:

·        Finials – decorative hardware that embellish the ends of drapery rods.

·        Brackets – support rods at each end, and also in the center of extra long rods.

·        Drapery rings – rings that are hooked or sewn onto the top of the curtain and then strung on the rod to allow the fabric panels to open and close freely.

·        Tiebacks – decorative anchors fixed to the wall that hold back the fabric panels from the door or window.