How to Fit a Curtain Track, by Dunelm on YouTube. 2 min 10 s.
- Video length
- 2 min 10 s
- Time to do it
- 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Measure the window width and decide whether the track sits on the wall above the frame or on the ceiling. The track should overhang each side by about 15 to 20 cm so curtains clear the glass.
Hold a bracket against the wall or ceiling and mark the screw holes with a pencil. Use a spirit level to keep the brackets at the same height and mark every bracket position along the track.
Drill pilot holes at each mark with a bit slightly narrower than your wall plugs. Keep the drill straight and stop at the depth of the plug.
Push a wall plug into each hole and tap it flush with the hammer. For ceiling joists or timber, skip the plugs and screw straight into the wood.
Screw the brackets to the wall or ceiling. Check each one is tight and level before hanging anything on it.
Clip or slide the track into the brackets, following the order in your kit. Most tracks click in from the front or slide in from one end.
Thread the curtain hooks or gliders onto the track before you hang the curtains. Fit the end stops so the curtains cannot slide off.
Hang the curtains and pull them open and closed a few times. Adjust any bracket that pulls or sticks, then tighten the screws.
Tips and common mistakes
Use a ladder on firm, level ground and have someone steady it while you drill overhead.
Check for pipes and cables with a detector before drilling, especially near the ceiling.
Mark bracket heights from the floor, not the window frame, so the track stays level.
Leave the end stops slightly loose until the curtains are on, then tighten them.
Questions
Can I fit a curtain track without drilling?
Yes, for light curtains you can use strong adhesive track brackets on smooth walls. They will not hold heavy curtains, so drill and screw for anything weighty.
How high above the window should the track go?
Around 10 to 15 cm above the window frame works for most rooms. Going closer to the ceiling makes the room look taller.
What if my wall is plasterboard?
Use hollow wall anchors or find the timber studs and screw into those. Standard wall plugs will pull out of plasterboard under the weight of curtains.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
