Curtain tracks are used to define areas in large rooms. Emergency rooms use curtain tracks to divide the space into cubicles. The tracks come in various lengths and have curved pieces that can be used to turn the track in different directions. Curtain tracks can be mounted to create almost any floor pattern.
Materials
Installing curtain tracks takes a great deal of planning and revision. Though a plan can be drawn on paper, there is no substitute to drawing the layout in the actual space. Use chalk so the line can be erased and redrawn several times. Other tools to be certain to have on hand when you start the project is a flexible measuring tape, carpenter's plumb string, curtain tracks, corner bend tracks, roller hooks and curtains. The will mount with screws so a drill and screws will be needed as well.
Tips for Planning the Project
Use the chalk to draw the curtain plan on the floor of the actual space. Even though the curtain tracks will be mounted to the ceiling, having definite lines on the floor will give you the opportunity to walk through and identify any needs or changes. Erase and redraw as needed.
If you want a curtain to turn a corner to form two or more walls, draw a curved line in the corner and continue around the wall distance. When all the lines are drawn, measure the lines. A flexible measuring tape will be helpful in measuring around the corners. Count the number of corners. Purchase a corner bend track for each corner of your curtains. Add all the measurements together and purchase this much linear footage.
Ask the supplier if they cut the tracks to length. If so, you may be able to get this work done for you before the tracks are delivered. The supplier will need the measurements for each individual wall unit.
Install the Tracks
Transfer the track line to the ceiling. Use a ladder that is tall enough to lift you within a comfortable working height of the ceiling. This is a personal preference. While on the ladder hold the end of a plumb string above the chalk line. Allow the plumb to hang down. Adjust the position of the string until the plum is over the line. Make a mark on the ceiling. Move over two to three feet and repeat until the entire line is represented.
Install one roller hook for each grommet on the curtain panel. Mount short sections of the track along the ceiling line, following the packaging directions. Continue combining track pieces until you have completed the wall section. Place one curtain grommet on each roller hook.
Tags: actual space, chalk line, corner bend, curtain tracks, curtain tracks