Outdoor curtains are a great way to add privacy, shade, and style to your patio, porch, or deck. Hanging outdoor curtains properly ensures they will look beautiful while withstanding the elements. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn everything you need to know about how to hang outdoor curtains.
Choose the Right Outdoor Curtains
When selecting outdoor curtains, consider the following factors:
Material
- Acrylic – Acrylic fabric is water-resistant, fade-resistant, and withstands weather well. It’s a good budget option.
- Polyester – Polyester is long-lasting, wrinkle-resistant, and retains color. Blackout polyester blocks sunlight.
- Cotton – Natural cotton is breathable and soft but requires weather protection spray.
- Olefin – Olefin dries quickly and resists mildew and stains. It’s durable and low maintenance.
- Sunbrella – Sunbrella is a long-lasting, fade-resistant acrylic. It’s more expensive but worth the cost.
Size
Measure the area you want to cover and purchase curtains 2-3 inches wider than the area for optimal coverage. Standard sizes are 108, 144, and 216 inches wide. For custom sizes, purchase panel widths of 54 or 84 inches wide and join them.
Style
Select the style based on your needs and decor. For privacy, choose curtains with liners or blackout fabrics. Sheer curtains add class without sacrificing views.
Color
Neutrals like white, beige, ivory, and black blend anywhere. Bold hues make a dramatic statement. Avoid light colors to prevent dirt visibility.
Pattern
Solid curtains offer versatility. Subtle patterns like stripes and solids give a crisp, tailored look. Bold prints add visual interest and personality.
Lining
Lined curtains provide insulation, light blocking, and weather protection. Unlined curtains cost less but require additional liners for functionality.
Budget
Inexpensive ready-made curtains work for basic shading. For durability, customized curtains or brands like Sunbrella are worthwhile investments. Check sales too!
Choose Mounting Options
Outdoor curtains can be hung on walls, ceilings, poles, tracks, and rod mountings:
Wall/Ceiling Mount
- Drill brackets into the wall/ceiling and insert curtain rods into them
- Provides stationary positioning above, in front of, or behind space
Pole Mount
- Attach adjustable pole brackets to walls, ceilings or floors
- Allows sliding curtains open/shut along pole
Track Mount
- Mount a curtain track on the wall/ceiling with hooks to slide curtains
- Offers flexible opening and closure
Rod Mount
- Install extendable curtain rods between walls or ceilings
- Enable drawing curtains open/closed along rods
Consider your needs, space, and budget. Wall mounts are simplest for small spaces. Track and rod mounts provide the most flexibility.
Calculate Proper Hanging Height
Hang curtains high enough to clear furniture and walking space but low enough to provide privacy and shade:
- Ceiling height under 8 ft – Install curtains 2-3 inches above the window with 6-8 inches floor clearance
- 8 to 9 ft ceilings – Hang curtains 3-6 inches above window with 8-10 inches floor clearance
- Over 9 ft ceilings – Mount curtains 6-12 inches above window with 10-12 inches floor clearance
Measure carefully for optimal function and aesthetics. Mark mounting bracket height with painters tape.
Select Mounting Hardware
Use weather-resistant hardware designed for outdoor use:
- Brackets – Choose sturdy metal brackets in your required size and weight capacity.
- Rods – Opt for stainless steel or aluminum rods at least 1/8 inches thick and sized for your curtains.
- Hooks – Vinyl coated S-hooks smoothly glide along rods and prevent rust.
- Fasteners – Use exterior-grade screws and hollow wall anchors for secure installation.
Purchase hardware in the same finish for visual consistency. Spend a little more for quality materials that will last.
Installing Ceiling/Wall Mounts
Follow these steps to install stationary ceiling or wall mounts:
Step 1: Mark Bracket Locations
Measure the area and mark bracket screw locations with painters tape. Space brackets equal distances apart, aligning with studs or structural points.
Step 2: Install Brackets
Drill pilot holes if needed. Use a drill or screwdriver to install brackets into wood studs or plastic anchors in drywall.
Step 3: Mount Rods
Cut metal or aluminum rods to the right length with a hacksaw. Insert the rods into the mounted brackets.
Step 4: Attach Curtains
Slide rings, grommets, back tabs, or pleats onto the rods per the curtain instructions.
Step 5: Adjust and Secure
Confirm alignment, adjust rod length if needed, and secure brackets. Test that curtains slide smoothly.
Allow proper clearance, reinforce with extra brackets if needed, and check periodically for stability.
Installing Track Mounts
Track mounts provide flexible curtain positioning. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Select Track
Choose an aluminum track in your required length. Inner tracks offer smoother gliding.
Step 2: Mount Track
Measure and mark bracket locations. Install into studs or use anchors in drywall. Level and align the track.
Step 3: Attach Curtains
Push carriers, rings, grommets, or back tabs onto the track at equal intervals per curtain instructions.
Step 4: Adjust and Secure
Test gliding and adjust the track position if needed. Secure all brackets.
Step 5: Add Stoppers
Place stoppers at each track end to prevent curtains sliding off.
Lubricate track yearly for ease of opening and closing. Choose tracks with more brackets for longer spans.
Installing Rod Mounts
Rods allow fluid curtain control. Here’s how to mount them:
Step 1: Select Rod
Choose the diameter, thickness, and length needed to fit your space. Go longer for extra gathering.
Step 2: Mount Brackets
Position end brackets at proper height and width for the rod length. Use center brackets for extra support if needed.
Step 3: Insert Rod
Place the rod securely into all brackets. Extend adjustable rods to fit.
Step 4: Attach Curtains
Hang curtains onto rod with rings, carriers, grommets or back tabs per instructions.
Step 5: Adjust
Confirm rod is straight and curtains glide smoothly. Bend adjustable rods for exact fit.
Check adjustable rods frequently to tighten if needed. Lubricate metal components annually for ease of use.
Hanging Curtains Properly
Hang curtains correctly by following these tips:
- For fullness, multiply the rod length by 2 or 2.5 when purchasing curtains or use a rod 1.5 times the window width
- Install curtains high and wide enough to clear space beneath when drawn open
- Hang tab-top curtains on rings, grommets on rods, and back tabs on wall mounts only
- Overlap panels in the center for full coverage across large spans
- Add decorative holdbacks secured at sides or middle to keep curtains open
- Weigh down bottom hems of lined curtains with drapery weights for better draping
- Angle stationary side panels forward and outward to soften window corners
- Allow new fabrics to air out for 24 hours before hanging to minimize shrinkage
Proper hanging techniques create beautiful draping and easy function. Follow all included instructions for your curtain style.
Installing Weather-Resistant Linings
Adding a protective lining helps curtains withstand the outdoors.
Step 1: Obtain Lining
Purchase ready-made vinyl, acrylic, polyester or outdoor fabric linings. Get blackout linings to block light.
Step 2: Cut to Size
Measure curtains and cut linings 2-3 inches wider and longer with scissors.
Step 3: Sew Linings
Sew cut lining to the top back side of curtain panels using topstitching or a blind hem.
Step 4: Create Pleats
Sew pleats and hems for the bottom lining to match the outer curtain.
Step 5: Attach Linings and Curtains
Hang both together on rods or drapery hooks per curtain instructions.
Reapply water protection spray to linings yearly. Have a professional seamstress sew linings for more durability.
Caring for Outdoor Curtains
Follow these maintenance tips to extend the life of outdoor curtains:
- Check for wear, damage, mildew, and stains regularly
- Rinse with clean water monthly and spot clean as needed
- Machine or hand wash fabric curtains once a year or as directed
- Apply fabric protectant spray every 6 months for water and UV resistance
- Take down in extreme weather and high winds to prevent whipping
- Allow wet curtains to fully air dry before rehanging to prevent mildew
- Dry clean, steam, or press polyester and olefin as needed
- Avoid heat to limit shrinking of natural fibers like cotton and linen
Proper care keeps curtains looking fresh and maximizes longevity. Replace damaged curtains and linings promptly.
Troubleshooting FAQs
What if my outdoor curtains won’t slide smoothly on the track/rod?
- Check for obstructions and binding. Lubricate metal components with silicone spray. Adjust mounting brackets to realign the track or rod.
Why are my curtains blowing around in the wind?
- Add drapery weights to bottom hems or tiebacks to sides for more stability in windy conditions. Choose tighter weave fabrics for less airflow next time.
How can I get crisp pleats and creases in outdoor curtains?
- Dampen the fabric and iron on low heat or take to the dry cleaner. Starch treatments also help pleats hold shape. Re-crease and steam regularly.
What should I do if my outdoor curtains are fading in the sun?
- Sun exposure fades most fabrics over time. Treat with UV protective sprays. For future curtains, look for fade-resistant, acrylic Sunbrella fabrics. Keep curtains drawn when not in use.
How do I clean mildew off my outdoor curtains?
- Mix equal parts bleach and water and sponge onto affected areas before rinsing clean. For quicker prevention, add white vinegar to rinse water monthly.
Why are my curtains sagging unevenly?
- Adjust mounting hardware so it is perfectly straight and level. Add extra brackets for additional support if needed. Use drapery weights to keep bottom hems even.
Conclusion
Installing outdoor curtains properly creates the perfect decorative and functional accent for your outdoor space. With the right mounting method, hardware, and well-constructed, weather-resistant curtains, you can create a beautiful look that withstands the outdoors. Follow these instructions for a successful installation. Get creative with styles, fabrics, lengths, and positioning to enhance your space functionally and aesthetically.