How To Make Light Disappear From The Tops of Your Curtains

If you've ever struggled to darken a room because sunlight streams in through the tops of the curtains, you're not alone. Light gaps above window treatments are a common problem - but also one that can be solved! With the right techniques and tools, you can successfully block light from curtain tops for complete blackout conditions.

Whether you want to upgrade your existing curtains or install new light-blocking window treatments, we've got you covered. Follow these tips for total light blocking from floor to ceiling.

Assess the Gap

Before taking action, inspect where and how light is entering from the tops of your curtains. Look closely along the edges and center of the curtains where they meet the wall or window frame. Note where the largest gaps exist.

Check if the cause is curtains that are too narrow or too short for the window. Measure to determine if the curtains are not wide or long enough to extend past the window edges. Angled ceilings can also cause light gaps at the top corners of windows.

Purchase Blackout Curtains or Liners

An easy fix is buying curtains made specifically for blackout conditions. Blackout curtain fabrics are tightly woven, often from dense materials like velvet, wool, or polyester. This blocks outside light from penetrating the curtains.

You can also add separate blackout curtain liners. These liner panels get layered behind existing curtains to make them light blocking. Measure carefully so the blackout curtains or liners fully cover the window for a seamless effect.

Install a Wrap-Around Curtain Rod

Wrap-around or extended curtain rods help solve light gaps above regular straight rods. The extended rod attaches to the wall and stretches 3-5 inches wider than the window frame. This allows curtains extra overlap past the edges.

Mount the wrap-around rod right above the molding or window frame using brackets. Ensure the hardware is strong enough to support the rod and curtains. Then hang your curtains so they completely cover the edges of the window.

Apply Adhesive Light-Blocking Tape

Specialty light-blocking tapes adhere your curtains directly to the wall or window. This seals any gaps along the edges and tops that let light through. The tapes come in various styles from foam strips to vinyl seals.

Measure and cut tape strips to fit your exact window size. Apply the adhesive side to clean window and press curtains in place. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for preparation and application.

Add a Top Valance Above Curtains

Adding a decorative valence or cornice box above your curtains enhances the look while blocking light. Valances can be purchased ready-made or custom-sewn.

Use opaque blackout fabric to prevent light shining through thin materials. Mount the valance so it completely covers and overhangs the window frame. This captures any top light gaps. Coordinate valance patterns and colors with curtains.

Use Light-Blocking Shades and Blinds

Installing blackout roller shades or blinds above your curtains provides full window coverage. Opt for materials like dual-sided vinyl that prevent all outside light from passing through.

Mount the shades or blinds to the wall, ceiling or molding above the curtain rod. Automated options make it easy to control privacy and room darkening as needed throughout the day.

Consider Light-Blocking Cornices

Boxed cornices offer a decorative way to block light from the tops of windows. Cornices mount above the window frame and can be filled with materials like rigid foam to prevent light shining through.

You can buy pre-assembled cornices or build your own box frame and cover with opaque fabric. The cornice styling adds beautiful architecture while keeping light totally blocked.

Paint Window Frames a Dark Color

Sometimes light gaps come from illumination reflecting off light-colored window frames. Painting the trim and molding around the window in a deep, dark shade prevents this.

Black or chocolate brown work best. For rental spaces, use a removable dark paint. Be sure to use formulas designed for high-heat areas like windows so the color doesn't fade or peel.

Use Grommets for Full Coverage

Curtain grommets allow the curtain rod to be mounted inside the window frame instead of in front. This helps curtains overlap the window edges better.

Take measurements and have your curtains professionally fitted with grommets set a few inches apart. This is useful for windows with a deep recess that causes stubborn light gaps.

Preventing light from shining in through the tops of curtains is simple with the right techniques. Start by assessing where and why gaps exist. Install window treatments like blackout curtains, shades and top valances that specifically block light.

You can finally eliminate stray beams from the top of your curtains with these light blocking solutions. Whether daytime sleeping or movie watching, your rooms can become fully dark and free of disruptive light.