Friday, November 26, 2010

Hang A Long Curtain From The Ceiling

Hanging long curtains from the floor to the ceiling is becoming common, and curtain installation manufacturers are responding by creating more products to make this design choice easier for homeowners. Hanging curtains in this way creates an illusion that the room ceiling height is taller or more expansive than it really is. This also provides a soft wall that may be used to hide problems with the wall or view. A curtain wall can be used to separate areas, as a headboard for a bed or along a wall of windows.


Instructions


1. Measure the length of the wall where the ceiling track will be installed.


2. Cut the ceiling track 1 inch less than the length of the wall using a hacksaw. If you need to join sections of track, include the joiners in your calculations of the final length.


3. Locate the ceiling joists in the area where the curtain will be installed. If the joist is running parallel with the wall, use wall anchors designed for the type of ceiling material. If the joists are running perpendicular, use a stud finder and mark the locations of each joist on the ceiling.








4. Join the track lengths together (if necessary). Position the track at the location where you want the curtain wall. Use measurements to keep the track straight based on your design. Mark the location of installation holes. Position these holes over the joists when possible. Drill holes and insert wall anchors when no joist attachment is possible.








5. Position brackets every 2 to 4 feet, depending on the weight of the draperies being used. Screw the brackets into the ceiling at the joists or wall anchors using a screwdriver. Attach the track to the brackets. With some types of track systems it is necessary to screw the brackets in place with the track already installed in the brackets. Check your type before installing the brackets.


6. Place an end cap over one end of the curtain track. Insert eye slides into the track. Use one eye slide for every 4 to 6 inches of curtain. Slide on all of the slides you will need and then cap the remaining end of the curtain track.


7. Attach the curtains to the slides using drapery hooks, clamps or other attachment pieces. Attach a guide rod to assist you in opening the drapes if necessary.

Tags: wall anchors, ceiling joists, ceiling track, curtain track, curtain wall, length wall