Get The Decorative Bathtub Covering You Want With These One Sided Curtain Rod Tips
Do you have an awkward corner bathtub or shower that lacks a wall on one side? Are you struggling to find curtains that provide coverage and accent your bathroom decor? One sided curtain rods offer clever solutions for these frustrating spaces. Keep reading to discover where to find specialty one sided rods, how to DIY your own design, and expert tips for decorating with single side curtains.
Why You Need a One Sided Curtain Rod
While most curtain rods require two anchor points to mount them, one sided curtain rods attach to just one wall or surface. They are specially designed for situations where you only have one viable side to hang curtains. Here are some of the most common cases where a one sided rod comes in handy.
Common Situations Requiring a Single Side Mount
Covering the side of a bathtub
Slanted soaking tubs or corner bathtubs often lack a wall on one side. This leaves you with awkward exposed plumbing and nowhere to hang complete curtain coverage. One sided rods provide that missing anchor point to finally decorate this troublesome tub edge.
Decorating small bathrooms with limited wall space
In cramped powder rooms, you may not have enough clearance for two mounting brackets. Partial rods allow you to hang curtains even with tight quarters and make the most of your existing layout.
Creating an accent wall with curtains
Using creatively placed one sided curtain panels is a simple DIY accent wall. The dramatic drapes make a stylish statement without the work of actually installing new drywall or finishes.
Benefits of Using a One Sided Curtain Rod
Besides accommodating off-angle walls, single mount curtain rods also offer other advantages like:
- Saves space - perfect for small bathrooms
- Provides privacy on exposed sides of tubs and showers
- Enhances decor and style with unique placement
Finding the Perfect One Sided Curtain Rod
Short of fashioning your own MacGyver-esque contraption, commercial one sided curtain rods fall into two main categories:
- Specialty one sided rods
- Adjustable partial extension rods
Each option provides single side mounting in its own way. Let's explore the pros and cons of each to find your ideal fit.
Specialty One Sided Curtain Rods
As the name implies, these specialty curtain rods are specifically designed for one wall mounting situations. Here's what to expect:
Where to buy them
Due to lower consumer demand, dedicated one sided curtain rods are primarily available through specialty home goods retailers or high-end interior designers. Mass-market stores tend to stick with standard double bracket rods.
Designer styles available
When you do find one-off curtain rods, they run the gamut from modern chrome to ornate gilt brass for matching any aesthetic. Boutique designers get creative with shapes too - curved rods, sloped rods, or even decorative rods shaped like tree branches.
Matching your existing hardware
The limited selection often makes matching finishes tricky. If coordinated bath hardware is important, custom-order window treatment specialists can craft a one-of-kind rod to your exact style specifications.
Adjustable Partial Rods
Here's the secret - standard adjustable length partial extension rods function as readymade one sided curtain rods with a couple adjustments. Here's how:
How they can work as one sided rods
Partial curtain rods are designed to mount within a window frame, protruding at an angle into a room. But they can easily convert to single side duty. Simply fully extend the rod to maximum length and mount the anchored end flush to your problem wall.
Extension range and capacity
The exact dimensions vary by brand, but most adjustable partial rods can stretch from 12 inches up to 48 inches. They also support medium weight curtains without issue. Just ensure the brackets grip securely for stable mounting once fully extended.
Mounting a partial rod to look like a 1-sided rod
Small finials meticulously cover the empty rod end, mimicking the complete custom rod look. Or for a more inventive option, attach an auxiliary decorative support like a wall-mounted candle sconce.
DIY Solutions
Don't discount the DIY route for the most custom single side rod option. Get creative with these ideas:
- Making your own with copper pipe and wood - fully customizable lengths and finish
- Using a tension rod design - no need to drill into troublesome ceramic tile walls
- Creative ideas for one wall mounting - try yard sale lamp posts, salvaged wagon wheels, tree branches or copper tubing for rustic style
Installing Your One Sided Curtain Rod
Ready to get your new one sided wonder properly mounted? Follow these steps for a secure installation:
Preparing Your Mounting Surface
Assess the wall or framing designed to anchor your single bracket rod. Ensure you have:
- Solid backing like wood studs to handle the load. Wall anchors in sheetrock alone cannot bear weight.
- Hollow drywall anchors if wood stud access is limited - triple grip anchors provide rock solid stability.
Hanging the Brackets
Mark your desired height, allowing for the rod diameter and curtain clearance. Use a level to plot evenly spaced bracket points. Take care to:
- Get proper height and spacing for your rod size and curtain style.
- Ensure perfectly even positioning - uneven points become obvious when curtains hang.
Securing the Rod
With backing reinforced and brackets placed, carefully set your rod into the hangers. Slowly release tension to nestle it into ideal position. Finish by:
- Adjusting for the perfect fit - small shifts in angle make a difference.
- Attaching finials for stability - even decorative finials prevent sliding.
Decorating With One Sided Curtains
Your specialty rod awaits its fabulous fabric. But before unleashing your inner Rachel Zoe, consider these style pointers:
Choosing the Right Curtains
Narrow your textile search by deciding between:
- Pinch pleat vs. back tab curtains - pleated styles normally suit one mounts better.
- Getting the proper fullness - around 50% more width than rod length prevents billowing.
Accessorizing Your Curtain
Elevate your one sided curtain with complementary accents like:
- Trims and accents - fringe, contrast bands, decorative stitching.
- Decorative holdback hooks for a finished look - match rod finishes.
Styling Ideas and Inspiration
Pull together a chic single sided curtainscape with these ideas:
- Group multiple panels for softness: hang two panels of whisper-light linen.
- Coordinate your bath fabrics - bring in matching hand towels or shower curtain liners.
- Check social media for creative photos of one wall curtain treatments - replicate or riff off captivating designs.
Troubleshooting Common One Sided Curtain Issues
Even expertly constructed single mount rods hit snags occasionally. Conquer these potential curtain woes quickly:
Dealing With Slipping Curtains
Light curtain panels sliding sideways ruins your perfect drape. Stop slippage by:
- Adjusting rings and clips to reduce movement along the rod.
- Opting for high quality hardware with tighter closure tolerance.
Preventing Billowing Fabric
Without backing to hold it taut, one sided curtains blow about. Counteract by:
- Securing pleats correctly - evenly spaced with firmly pressed creases.
- Subtle weights sewn into bottom hem add just enough pull for control.
When situated near wet areas like tubs and showers, humidity hits fabric hard. Reduce detrimental moisture with:
- Proper airflow and ventilation to discourage condensation buildup behind curtains.
- choosing moisture resistant polyester fabric instead of more delicate cottons.
We hope these ideas for sourcing and installing one sided curtain rods answered your decor dilemma. Now you can finally achieve the attractive bathtub or accent wall treatment you desire, even in problematic asymmetric spaces. Happy decorating!