Love Your Outdoor Space? Learn How to Keep Curtains in Place with Easy Weights

There's nothing worse than spending time and money decorating your outdoor living area only to have the curtains constantly blowing all over the place. It's not only annoying but makes your space feel disheveled and chaotic. The good news is there are some simple solutions to keep your outdoor curtains weighed down and where they belong so you can enjoy your patio, porch or deck fully.

Adding weights is an easy fix to tame unruly outdoor curtains so they hang neatly regardless of weather conditions.

Why Outdoor Curtains Move So Much

Outdoor curtains tend to move around a lot more than indoor curtains because they are exposed to elements like wind, rain, and weather changes. Even a light breeze can send your outdoor curtains billowing, while stronger gusts cause them to flap around loudly and uncontrollably.

The lightweight, sheer fabrics often used for outdoor curtains are also easy to move with the slightest air current. Longer curtain panels that nearly reach the floor provide more coverage but also catch more wind, so they require weighting for stability.

Where to Add Weights on Outdoor Curtains

There are a few ideal places to position weights for optimal effectiveness:

• Bottom hem - Weights sewn into the hem keep the entire bottom edge stabilized.
• Bottom corners - Weights anchored at the lower corners add tension against movement.
• Along bottom edge - Distributing weights evenly across the width works well.

The most important thing is to spread out the weights symmetrically so they counteract the wind's force. Curtains move when wind exerts uneven pressure, so balanced weighting is key.

Types of Weights for Outdoor Curtains

You have several options when it comes to choosing the right weights for your outdoor curtains:

Sewn-In Hem Weights

For a discreet solution, attach weights right into the bottom hem of your curtains. Some good choices include:

• Curtain tape - Adhesive-backed chains can be sewn into the hem seam.
• Beaded chain - Chains with decorative beads add a pretty touch.
• Fishing weights - Small flat weights easy to insert in hems.

Bottom Weights

Weights positioned on the lower edges or sides keep your curtains hanging straight. Options include:

• Sash chain - Sold by length, can be custom cut for your curtains.
• Metal or plastic drapery weights - Hook over the rod pocket or use clips.
• Clips - Special clips to attach weights to the curtain fabric.

Pocket Weights

For a removable option, sew pockets into the lower hem and insert dense materials like:

• Rice
• Sand
• Pennies
• Nuts & bolts

Pockets are easy to make. Just be sure to reinforce the seams so they don't rip under the weight. This is an inexpensive way to get custom, adjustable weighting.

Making Your Own Weights

You don't have to spend much to weigh down outdoor curtains. Try these homemade options:

• Paper clips and binder clips - Attach along the hem or lower edge.
• Ribbon - Sew ribbon ties to attach washers, nuts or other small dense objects.

How Much Weight is Needed?

The amount of weight needed depends on the curtain fabric and typical wind levels:

• Light, sheer fabrics - May need 3-4 lbs per foot of curtain width.
• Medium weight fabrics - Around 1-2 lbs per foot is usually sufficient.
• Areas with high winds - Use 5+ lbs per foot for stability.

If your curtains are still moving a lot, gradually add more weight until they hang as desired. Heavier curtains naturally stay put better than lighter ones.

Installing Weights Correctly

To avoid damaging curtains, properly attach weights using these tips:

• Distribute weight evenly and symmetrically for best results.
• Reinforce hems and use sturdy clips to prevent tearing.
• Periodically check weights to ensure they aren't pulling or straining the fabric.
• Remove any damaged weights immediately before they cause bigger issues.

With the right installation, weights should stabilize curtains without putting excessive force on the fabric or hardware. But inspect periodically as a precaution.

Weight Alternatives for Reducing Wind Problems

If you'd prefer not to use traditional weights, there are some other options to minimize outdoor curtain movement:

• Sandbags - Fill heavy duty bags with sand and attach to bottom corners.
• Curtain tracks - Allow curtains to be pulled back fully when not needed.
• Heavy, tightly woven fabrics - Canvas, denim, burlap move less.
• Simple curtain shapes - Straight lines and rectangles move less than curved.

However, most sheer or lightweight fabrics will require some actual weighting for adequate stability. So consider combining these alternatives with minimal weights as needed.

Dealing with curtains blowing every which way can quickly sabotage your enjoyment of your carefully designed outdoor living space. But by understanding the best weighting placements, materials, and installation methods, you can finally resolve irritating movement issues.

Proper weighting techniques keep fabrics stabilized so you can relax and entertain without the annoyance of flapping panels. Try starting with pocket weights for easy adjustability, and go up to sewn-in chains or bottom weights if more heft is needed.

With the right combination of solutions, your yard, patio, porch or deck can once again be a peaceful place. So take back your outdoor curtains from the wind and weather using these recommended tips. Then sit back and soak in the calm environs you've worked so hard to create and deserve to savor.