How High Should A Curtain Rod Be Above The Window

When hanging curtains, one of the most important decisions you'll make is how high to place the curtain rod. The height of the curtain rod will affect the overall look and feel of your room, so it's important to get it right. But how high should a curtain rod be above the window? The answer depends on a few factors, including the height of your ceiling, the style of your curtains, and the desired effect you want to achieve.

Ceiling Height

The first thing to consider when hanging curtain rods is the height of your ceiling. For rooms with standard 8-foot ceilings, a good rule of thumb is to hang the curtain rod 4 to 6 inches above the top of the window frame. This will create a balanced look and allow the curtains to hang just above the floor.

For rooms with higher ceilings, you can hang the curtain rod higher. A good starting point is to hang the rod 8 to 12 inches above the top of the window frame. This will create a more dramatic look and allow the curtains to pool on the floor.

Curtain Style

The style of your curtains will also affect the height of the curtain rod. Long, flowing curtains will look best when hung high above the window frame, while shorter, more tailored curtains can be hung closer to the window.

For long curtains, a good rule of thumb is to hang the curtain rod 8 to 12 inches above the top of the window frame. This will allow the curtains to hang just above the floor and create a graceful, elegant look.

For shorter curtains, you can hang the curtain rod closer to the window frame. A good starting point is to hang the rod 4 to 6 inches above the top of the window frame. This will create a more casual, relaxed look.

Desired Effect

The desired effect you want to achieve will also affect the height of the curtain rod. If you want to make a room look taller, hang the curtain rod high above the window frame. This will create the illusion of height and make the room feel more spacious.

If you want to make a room look wider, hang the curtain rod closer to the window frame. This will create the illusion of width and make the room feel more cozy.

Tips for Hanging Curtain Rods

Here are a few tips for hanging curtain rods:

Before you start, measure the width of your window and add 4 to 6 inches to each side. This will ensure that your curtains are wide enough to cover the window.
Mark the height at which you want to hang the curtain rod on the wall. Use a level to make sure that the rod is straight.
Install the curtain rod brackets according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Hang the curtain rod on the brackets.
Add your curtains and enjoy!