Outdoor curtains are a great way to provide shade, privacy, and protection from the elements for your patio, porch, or deck. However, outdoor spaces can be quite windy, which can cause lightweight curtains to blow around. Weighing down your outdoor curtains is an easy way to keep them in place and functioning properly. Here are some tips on how to weigh down outdoor curtains.
Choose Heavy Curtains or Add Weight to Existing Curtains
One of the easiest ways to weigh down outdoor curtains is to simply choose a heavyweight fabric when purchasing them. Look for fabrics like canvas, polyester, acrylic, or cotton duck which have more density and weight than lighter fabrics like sheers or gauze. Heavier fabrics resist blowing around in windy conditions.
If you already have lightweight outdoor curtains, you can add weight by sewing small lead curtain weights into the bottom hem or edges of the curtains. Other options are to add iron-on interfacing to the curtains which adds body and weight or to sew in a chain weight by enclosing fishing weights or other metal weights inside the bottom hem.
Use Curtain Tie-Downs
Curtain tie-downs are weighted hems or pockets sewn into the front edges and bottom hem of curtains. You insert weights into the pockets to hold the curtains down.
Tie-downs can be purchased with premade outdoor curtains, or you can sew your own channels and pockets to add tie-downs to existing curtains. For the bottom hem, sew a pocket that runs the full width of the curtain, leaving an opening to insert a chain, rod, or other heavy weight. For edges, sew vertical channels at intervals to hold rod weights or long chain links.
Hang Curtains Using Weighted Rods or Poles
Installing a weighted curtain rod or pole designed for outdoor use is an effective way to keep curtains hanging straight and not blowing in the wind.
Look for outdoor curtain rods made from metal or thick plastic that allow you to insert weights inside the rod. These help weigh down the rod and keep it from swaying. You can also look for telescoping adjustable rods and poles that allow you to add stabilizing outdoor bases weighted with sand or water. Rods with wind-resistant finials also help keep curtains in place.
Use Weights in Curtain Hemlines
One of the simplest ways to weigh down curtains is by placing free weights into the bottom hemline or pockets. Some options include:
- Metal chains or beaded curtains – These can be threaded through the bottom hem or tie-down pockets. Use galvanized metal for durability outdoors.
- Fishing weights – The flat, oblong sliding weights used on fishing lines can easily be inserted into curtain hems or pockets. Lead weights will have the most density.
- Rods or pipes – Small diameter metal or plastic pipes cut down to size slide into hemline pockets and add substantial weight across the entire hem.
- Wrapped weights – You can DIY your own weights by wrapping washers, nuts, bolts, or other heavy objects in fabric or plastic and inserting them into tie-down pockets.
Use Strong Outdoor Mounting Options
Installing curtains on a sturdy mounting system designed for windy outdoor settings is key. Some good options:
- Permanent mounts – Mount curtain rods into a wood beam, post, or wall using anchored screws. This provides the most secure base.
- Ground mounts – Pound metal or wooden poles into the ground and mount curtain rods to these. Use with concrete footings for extra strength.
- Deck rail mounts – Attach deck rail brackets to rails then mount curtain rods to these. Great for patios and decks.
- Wall mounts – Use heavy-duty outdoor mounting brackets secured with masonry anchors to attach rods. Work well on brick, stucco, or concrete walls.
Use Clip Rings or Straps
Curtain clip rings and tie-back straps offer an easy way to anchor curtains in place, preventing them from blowing around.
Attach clip rings periodically to the edge of the curtain, then use hooks to secure the rings to a stationary surface like an eye bolt, nail, or heavy planter.
Tie-back straps fasten around the curtains, then tie or clip to a secure anchor point. Position in areas prone to wind like edges and openings. Use durable outdoor straps and hardware.
Opt for Weighted Bottom Curtain Styles
There are some great curtain styles designed with extra weighted hems or bottoms perfect for windy locations:
- Tier curtains – The tiered layers have extra weighted bottoms to prevent movement.
- Split curtains – Individual panel strips can be optimally angled without catching wind.
- Slit curtains – Slits reduce billowing while still providing coverage.
- Tabbed curtains – Tab tops anchor the curtain while allowing optimal airflow.
- Grommet curtains – Curtains hung from grommets have built-in flexibility to sway minimally.
Consider Outdoor Curtain Alternatives
For extremely windy spots, outdoor curtain alternatives like exterior roller shades, screens, shutters, or awnings may be a better choice than standard curtains. These are designed to withstand outdoor conditions.
Outdoor curtains can transform your patio or deck and provide shade, seclusion, and protection. With the right heavy fabrics, weighted hems, durable rods, and secure mounting methods, you can keep outdoor curtains hanging gracefully regardless of wind and weather. Weighing them down properly will allow you to enjoy their benefits without constantly having to readjust blowing curtains.
Frequently Asked Questions About Weighing Down Outdoor Curtains
How much weight should I add to outdoor curtains?
The amount of weight needed depends on the curtain fabric and dimensions, but a good rule of thumb is 2-4 ounces per linear foot of curtain width. So for a 60 inch wide curtain, add 10-20 ounces total.
Where should I place weights in outdoor curtains?
Focus on weighting the bottom hem, corners, and vertical edges evenly. These are the areas most impacted by wind. Space weights every 6-12 inches along the hem and edges.
What kind of metal weights work best outdoors?
Lead and galvanized steel chains, pipes, and fishing weights work well since they resist rust. Stainless steel is also excellent for curtains exposed to salt air. Iron weights can rust.
Should I get special hardware for mounting outdoor curtains?
Yes, use corrosion-resistant metals like galvanized steel, aluminum, or stainless steel for brackets, eye bolts, and rods. Also use weather-resistant curtain clips, rings, and straps.
Can I use patio stones or other household items to weigh down curtains?
You can use some household items like stones or sealed containers of sand or rocks. Wrap them in fabric so they don’t damage the curtains. Just ensure they are heavy enough and won’t be disturbed by wind or rain.
How do I clean weighted outdoor curtains?
Check if your curtain fabric is machine washable or needs dry cleaning. If machine washing, remove all weights first. You can also spot clean gently with mild detergent and rinse off dust and dirt from weights. Let air dry fully before rehanging.
Conclusion
Weighing down outdoor curtains properly is critical for keeping them secure, neat, and functioning in windy outdoor conditions. With heavy enough curtain fabrics, the strategic use of weights in hems and edges, durable mounting hardware, and secure tie-downs, you can avoid the nuisance of constantly blowing curtains. Proper weighting preserves the beauty and functionality of outdoor curtains for providing shade, privacy, and protection.