Installing curtains across an extra wide window or wall can pose challenges with traditional rods. Often a single long rod starts to bend and drapes begin to sag in the middle without adequate support. This is where heavy duty curtain rod extenders become useful to bridge wide spaces.
Extenders join multiple shorter rods together for enhanced stability while still allowing smooth drawer movement. Models like center supports, tension poles, telescoping tubes, and wall-to-wall connectors transform wide openings into easily accessible windows dressed in your preferred drapes.
When to Use Curtain Rod Extenders
Here are common situations where utilizing rod extenders makes the most sense:
- Spanning wide bay windows
- Covering an extra long wall or tall ceilings
- If standard 12ft rods don’t reach desired width
The main benefit curtain rod extenders have over extremely long single piece rods is the stability and support they lend to heavy drapes. Multiple connection points prevent sagging and accidents. Extenders also provide more flexibility if you ever need to adjust window dressing lengths.
Types of Rod Extenders
Several handy extender types help unite curtain rods spanning wide spaces:
Center Support Extenders
As the name suggests, these rods join in the middle to prevent sagging drapes.
Tension Poles
Adjustable tension rods physically connect opposite rods ends for customized spacing.
Wall-to-Wall Extenders
Great for covering full walls, these discrete extenders mount behind rods to the side walls.
| Swagged Extensions | Swag style connectors drape gracefully between rods. |
| Telescoping Extenders | Hollow rods insert into one another for quick length changes. |
Rod Extender Installation Tips
Once you determine extenders suit your needs, follow these handy installation tips:
Measure Carefully
Precisely gauge desired rod length and space connectors accordingly. Account for swags/hardware.
Select Compatible Parts
Match heavy duty extender strength to primary rods. Check connector fits pipe size.
Use Plenty of Brackets
Well-anchored brackets prevent instability and accidents. Space 1-2 feet apart.
Overlap Rod Joints
Allowing a slight junction overlap compensates for shifts and sways.
Decorating with Extended Rods
The additional clearance provided by curtain extenders allows for more creativity when decorating window treatments:
- Layer panels behind blackout or noise reducing drapes
- Showcase ascending curtains that stack attractively
- Draw the eyes upwards with swags and ascots
- Incorporate character through decorative finials and hardware
Go bold with contrasts or keep it neutral. The room’s ventana vista is your canvas!
Troubleshooting Sag and Hardware Slippage
Despite the added support of extenders, heavy drapes still risk drooping in wide spans. Try these tips if curtains sag or hardware connections loosen unexpectedly:
Add More Brackets
Suppport arms every foot stop sliding. Check screws/anchors are tight.
Upgrade Rod Strength
Heavier industrial steel, thick wood, or iron pipes won’t bend.