DIY Curtain Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide for Australians

Installing curtains yourself can save hundreds of dollars per window while giving you complete control over positioning and finish. While professional installation is sometimes warranted for complex situations, most Australian homeowners can achieve professional-looking results with basic tools, patience, and the right technique. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire process, from gathering tools to hanging your first curtain.

Whether you're installing a simple curtain rod above a bedroom window or tackling a more ambitious multi-track system in your living room, this guide provides the knowledge you need to succeed.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before beginning, gather all necessary tools and materials. Having everything at hand prevents frustrating interruptions and ensures a smoother installation:

Essential Tools:

• Tape measure (at least 3 metres)
• Spirit level (longer is better, 60cm minimum)
• Pencil
• Power drill with drill bits and screwdriver bits
• Step ladder or sturdy step stool
• Stud finder (magnetic or electronic)
• Safety glasses

Hardware and Fasteners:

• Curtain rod or track with all included components
• Wall plugs appropriate for your wall type (included hardware may not suit all walls)
• Screws (those included with rods are often adequate but have extras on hand)

Helpful Extras:

• Painter's tape for marking positions
• Masking tape for drilling (prevents paint chipping)
• Small brush for cleaning drill dust
• A helper for larger or heavier installations

Understanding Australian Wall Types

Australian homes feature several wall types, and identifying yours is crucial for proper installation. The wrong fastener for your wall type can result in failures that damage both the wall and potentially your curtains.

Timber Frame with Plasterboard: The most common wall type in Australian homes built since the 1970s. Plasterboard (also called gyprock) provides a smooth surface over timber wall studs spaced typically 450mm or 600mm apart. For secure curtain installation, aim to mount at least one bracket into a stud. Use a stud finder to locate studs, or tap the wall and listen for a solid (rather than hollow) sound.

Brick or Block: Common in older Australian homes and some newer constructions. Requires masonry drill bits and appropriate wall plugs. Standard plastic plugs work for lighter curtain systems; heavy curtains or large spans may require expanding metal anchors.

Solid Timber: Found in older homes and some contemporary designs. Standard wood screws can be driven directly into solid timber walls. Pre-drilling with a slightly smaller bit prevents splitting, especially near edges.

Hollow Core: Some internal walls and upper-storey walls may be hollow without studs where you need them. In these cases, toggle bolts or specialty plasterboard anchors rated for the expected weight are essential.

Planning Your Installation Position

Where you position your curtain rod or track significantly affects the finished appearance. Follow these guidelines for optimal results:

Height: For the most elegant appearance, mount your curtain rod or track as close to the ceiling as practical. This creates the illusion of taller ceilings and larger windows. In rooms with standard 2.4m ceilings, positioning the rod 10-15cm below the ceiling works well. In rooms with higher ceilings, you might mount 20-30cm below the ceiling, proportional to ceiling height.

Width: Extend your rod or track at least 10-15cm beyond the window frame on each side. This "stack-back" space allows curtains to sit on the wall rather than covering the window when open, maximising your view and natural light. For generous fullness and a more luxurious appearance, extend up to 25cm on each side.

Bracket Placement: Position end brackets 3-5cm from the end of the rod. For rods wider than 1.8 metres, plan for a centre support bracket to prevent sagging. Some heavier curtains may require centre support on shorter spans as well.

Step-by-Step Installation: Curtain Rod

Step 1: Mark Your First Bracket Position

Starting on the left side, measure from the window frame and mark the distance you've determined for stack-back. Then measure up from the floor or window frame to your desired height. Make a small pencil mark where the top of the bracket will sit.

Step 2: Transfer the Height to the Other Side

Measure the total width your rod will span and mark the position for the right bracket at the same height. Double-check both marks are level using your spirit level. This step is critical for a professional finish.

Step 3: Locate Wall Studs

Use your stud finder to check if either bracket position coincides with a wall stud. Ideally, at least one bracket should be mounted directly into a stud. If neither position hits a stud, you'll need to use appropriate wall anchors for plasterboard.

Step 4: Drill Pilot Holes

Place a small piece of masking tape over each drill position to reduce chipping. Drill pilot holes appropriate for your wall type and chosen fasteners. For plasterboard, use a bit slightly smaller than your wall plug. For studs, use a bit slightly smaller than your screws.

Step 5: Install Brackets

Insert wall plugs if required, then hold the bracket in position and drive screws until firm but not over-tightened. Check that each bracket is level before fully tightening.

Step 6: Mount the Rod

If your curtains have rings or eyelets, thread them onto the rod before mounting, leaving one or two rings outside the end brackets to hold the curtain stack in place. Set the rod onto the brackets and secure according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 7: Hang Curtains and Adjust

Hang your curtains and check the hem height. The bottom should either just touch the floor, sit 1-2cm above it, or puddle slightly depending on your preference. Adjust if necessary, then dress the folds for even appearance.

Step-by-Step Installation: Curtain Track

Track installation follows similar principles but with some differences:

Marking: Tracks are typically mounted at ceiling level or on the wall just below the ceiling. Mark positions for mounting brackets according to manufacturer specifications, usually every 40-60cm along the track length.

Cutting: Many curtain tracks can be cut to length using a hacksaw. Measure carefully and make clean, straight cuts. File any rough edges smooth to prevent damage to curtain hooks.

Installation: Mount brackets first, starting from one end. Ensure all brackets are level and properly aligned before clicking or screwing the track into place. Install end stops and, if required, the draw mechanism or wand.

Hanging: Attach curtain hooks to your curtain heading tape, then clip hooks into track gliders. Distribute gliders evenly along the curtain's width for uniform appearance when drawn.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced DIYers make these mistakes. Awareness helps you avoid them:

• Mounting too low: Resist the temptation to mount just above the window frame. Higher mounting creates better proportions.
• Not using a level: Even small deviations are noticeable once curtains are hung. Always check with a spirit level.
• Wrong fasteners: Hardware included with curtain rods is often inadequate for Australian wall types. Invest in proper wall plugs and anchors.
• Forgetting centre support: Long spans without centre support sag over time, especially with heavy curtains.
• Not pre-drilling: Forcing screws without pilot holes damages walls and reduces holding strength.

Conclusion

DIY curtain installation is a satisfying project that most homeowners can complete successfully with proper preparation and patience. By understanding your wall type, using appropriate fasteners, and following careful measuring and levelling techniques, you can achieve results that rival professional installation. Take your time, especially on your first window, and don't hesitate to ask for a helper when handling long rods or heavy curtains. The sense of accomplishment when you step back to admire your perfectly hung curtains makes the effort worthwhile.