Best Damage-Free Curtain Hanging for Apartments and Dorms
Installing curtains can be a challenge in apartments and dorms where drilling into walls is prohibited. Luckily, there are some clever solutions that allow you to hang curtains without causing any damage.
With a bit of creativity and the right tools, you can mount curtains in your rental while still adhering to lease agreements and building codes.
Carefully Measure Windows for a Perfect Fit
Before selecting any hanging method, it's important first to precisely measure your windows. Account for the additional width you'll need for the specific hardware and curtains you select. Consider overlap if you opt for blackout curtains or additional light blocking.
Use a steel tape measure for smaller windows or a laser measure for larger windows to get exact dimensions. Record the window's height in the center, left, and right sides - windows are often not perfectly level.
Inside or Outside Mount Considerations
Measure to determine if you have enough depth for the brackets to mount your rod either inside the window frame or on the wall above it. If drilling isn't possible in your walls, an outside mount may be easier.
Alternatively, side mount options from brands like Toggler allow you to secure a rod by anchoring into the window frame instead.
Adhesive Options for Damage-Free Mounting
Command Brand Damage-Free Systems
Command Brand offers various damage-free mounting solutions like removable adhesive hooks, clips, or velcro strips perfectly suited for most standard curtain rods.
The key is selecting a product designed specifically to handle the thickness and weight of your particular curtain rod and fabric selection.
Heavy Duty Mounting Tape
For heavier curtain rod setups, double-sided mounting tape designed to hold up to five pounds may be needed. Thoroughly cleaning and lightly sanding smooth surfaces where tape will adhere is crucial.
A few small strips evenly spaced across the length of the rod can support sheer through medium weight curtains. Renter's insurance is advised!
Tension Rods Allow Quick Installs
Tension curtain rods are likely the fastest and easiest way to mount curtains or lightweight shades in apartments and dorms.
Many adjustable designs use a spring coil system that compresses to fit inside then expands to press against each side of your window frame when twisted into place.
Consider Weight Limits
Standard tension rods can support around 10-20 lbs depending on the width while heavy duty versions handle up to 50 lbs.
Measure carefully - too small and springs won't have enough tension to grip. Too wide and the rods may flex or pull out of their brackets from excess weight.
Lightweight Fabrics Keep Renters Damage-Free
Since most damage-free curtain hanging methods have weight limitations, choosing the right lightweight fabrics is key.
Sheers, linen, lightweight cottons, polyester blends around 100 gsm weight or less will work beautifully. Heavier textures like blackout fabrics usually require drilling for proper support.
DIY Blackout Solutions
To darken rooms for sleep yet avoid drilling, consider removable blackout film kits, temporary shades, or lining regular curtains with blackout fabric. Using a twin rod with blackout curtains on one and sheers on the other gives renters options.
There are also curtain panel clips that attach easily toaddEdge the bottoms, preventing light gaps.
With accurate planning and measurements coupled with innovative tension rods systems, adhesive strips, and lightweight curtain fabrics, renters can achieve their desired aesthetic while respecting lease agreements requiring no nails or drilling.
Damage-free curtain hanging not only protects rental deposits but also makes moving out hassle-free. Simply remove adhesives cleanly or disassemble rods to bring window treatments to your next home sweet home.