The Savvy Guide to Choosing Short Side Curtain Rods

Decorating your home with window treatments can completely transform the look and feel of a room. While full length curtains that drape from ceiling to floor create a lavish effect, they aren't always ideal. Short side curtain panels offer a lighter, tailored alternative for a clean modern aesthetic. Installing short rods on the sides of windows provides the perfect decorative accent while still allowing light to filter into the room.

Choosing the right short side curtain rods for your space takes a bit of planning. But with some savvy measuring, material consideration, and style coordination, you can easily unlock your windows' potential. Let's walk through the key steps in selecting short side panels rods so you can enhance your rooms with this stylish solution.

Determine the Right Length

The first decision is the appropriate length for your short side rods. Take into account the size of the window and room. For a small bathroom window, an 18-24 inch rod may suffice. But for larger living room side windows, 36-48 inches gives you more draping options.

Start by accurately measuring the width of the window side where you want the panels installed. Account for a few extra inches on each end to accommodate the end brackets. It's better for the rod to be slightly wider than the window frame. If mounting the brackets on the wall, add length for outside mounting.

Consider if you need multiple short rods joined together for extra long or corner windows. Connectors seamlessly let you combine rods for the perfect custom fit.

Common Short Side Curtain Rod Lengths

• 12 - 24 inches - Best for small windows
• 24 - 36 inches - Versatile for medium windows
• 36 - 48 inches - Ideal for larger windows

Choose a Suitable Material

Short curtain rods come in a variety of materials like wood, metal, plastic, or resin. Wood brings a natural warmth, while iron and brass offer an elegant versatility. Each material provides different textures and looks to match your room.

Consider the general durability and strength needed to smoothly hang curtains. Plastic and resin are budget-friendly options, while wood and metal are higher quality. Go for aluminum or stainless steel if looking for a sturdy rod with modern appeal.

You can also choose rods with finishes like brushed nickel, bronze, and more to coordinate with your overall decor. The material and finish combo allows you to perfectly balance form and function.

Top Materials for Short Side Curtain Rods

• Wood - Attractive finish options, natural style
• Aluminum - Lightweight yet strong, affordable
• Iron - Heavier duty, versatile finishes
• Brass - Visually striking, polished or brushed look

Select End Brackets and Hardware

One of the beauties of short side curtain rods is they easily mount to walls with basic end brackets. Consider decorative L-shaped brackets or sleek angular versions. Brackets with mounting plates provide ultra secure attachment.

For longer rods or heavier curtains, attach a center support bracket in the middle for stabilization. Tiebacks attached to the wall offer supplemental mounting and a pretty gathered effect.

If joining multiple rods, look for contrasting metal connector pieces. Straight, angled, or elbow shaped connectors maintain stability across two rods.

End Bracket Tips

• Look for brackets wider than the rod for stability
• Try to match bracket metal to the rod finish
• Consider finial caps for an elevated look

Measure and Mount Properly

Installing your rods straight and securely is key to efficiently hanging curtains. Start by carefully measuring the window side width with a cloth tape measure. Confirm your precise measurements against the rod lengths and bracket placements.

Use a laser level if you want to ensure completely straight rods. Mark the height to mount the brackets. When drilling and attaching to the wall, use anchors in drywall or plaster to reinforce.

Check that the rod sits perfectly level at both ends prior to securing it in the end brackets. Test to make sure curtains slide smoothly across the entire length of the rod. Make any subtle adjustments as needed until the operation is seamless.

Mounting Tips

• Confirm measurements twice before cutting or drilling
• Use wall anchors for enhanced durability
• Double check levelness before finalizing

Choose Curtains to Complement Style

The curtain panels themselves complete the stylish yet functional look. Consider the right length for your room's needs. Shorter 18 inch panels give just a touch of softness without sacrificing too much light. For more privacy, try lengths up to 36 inches.

Look for curtain fabrics to suit the room, whether light filtering sheers or luxurious blackout drapes. The pattern, color, and texture should tie in with existing furniture and decor elements for cohesion.

For extra visual interest, hang two panels of different fabrics, like breezy sheers over muted blackouts. Or add complementary window trims like shapely valances over the panels.

Curtain Tips

• Match fabric opacity to privacy needs
• Layer panels and valances for depth
• Consider weights and textures that suit rod

Short side curtain rods can take your room decor to the next level. They allow you to add a decorative accent while keeping your windows light and bright. With a savvy selection process, you can easily install short panels that perfectly fit your space and style.