Choosing Curtain Rod Brackets to Fit Your Blinds

Decorating your home with curtains can provide privacy, help control light, and add visual interest to your windows. But what if you already have existing blinds installed that you want to keep? Curtain rod brackets designed for mounting above blinds offer an ideal solution to hang curtains without removing your blinds.

Types of Curtain Rod Brackets for Blinds

There are two main types of specialty brackets to accommodate mounting a rod above window blinds:

• Outside mounted brackets - These attach to the wall or ceiling around the sides of the window to place the rod just in front of the blinds.
• Inside mounted brackets - These sit right on top of the blinds and use adjustable clips to secure the rod.

Both options allow you to layer curtains over your blinds while keeping them fully functional. The choice comes down to your specific window setup and personal style preferences.

Benefits of Outside Mounted Brackets

Placing curtain rod brackets on the wall or ceiling around your blinds has some advantages:

• Provides more clearance and space between the blinds and curtains.
• Allows the brackets to span a wider window area since they're not limited to blind width.
• Makes the rod and curtains appear more elevated and prominent in the window.

This outside mount style works well if you want to make a statement with your curtains. It also gives more leeway for opening and adjusting blinds without interference.

Benefits of Inside Mounted Brackets

Opting for brackets placed right on top of the blinds offers other conveniences:

• Don't require drilling into walls, making them ideal for rental apartments.
• Can be positioned at different points along the blinds to customize placement.
• Provide a discreet mounting solution since brackets are largely hidden by curtains.

This inside approach is quick, simple, and doesn't damage walls. The flexible clips also let you change the bracket positioning as needed.

Key Measurements for Proper Bracket Fit

Taking some key measurements of your windows and blinds will ensure you get brackets that fit properly:

• Measure the overall width of your blinds from end to end. Add at least 6 inches to allow room for mounting brackets.
• Measure the height of your blinds from top to bottom. Check manufacturer guidelines for required clearance above the blinds.
• Measure the depth of the blinds if going for inside mount brackets. Choose clips that can accommodate this depth.
• Measure the distance from the edge of the window trim to the wall. This will determine maximum outside bracket span.

Having these measurements on hand when shopping will make it easy to select the right bracket size and type for your windows.

Material Considerations Based on Rod and Blinds

The materials used for both your curtain rod and blinds will impact the brackets needed:

• Metal rods - Go for steel or zinc alloy brackets to support the rod weight and resist rust.
• Wood rods - Choose brackets with protective plastic end caps to prevent scraping.
• Tension rods - Don't require brackets, so measure carefully for a perfect expandable fit.
• Vinyl or aluminum blinds - Lightweight enough for standard plastic or metal brackets.
• Wood or faux wood blinds - Heavier materials may require reinforced brackets.

Matching bracket strength and durability to the rod and blinds materials prevents damage and accidents.

Design Factors That Affect Bracket Selection

Along with the functional considerations, some aesthetic factors play into choosing brackets:

• Color - Match bracket finish to blind and rod colors for a cohesive look.
• Visibility - Inside mount brackets may show through light curtains.
• Style - Decorative flourished brackets for a custom window style.
• Window height - Extended brackets needed to make floor length curtains work.

Keep the overall look you want in mind when picking bracket design and visibility. Aesthetics are important for a beautiful window treatment.

Solutions for Rental Apartments and No Drill Installs

Special considerations for rental apartments and other situations where drilling isn't possible:

• Look for adaptable inside mount brackets that clip onto blinds with no drilling.
• Use heavy duty Command strips rather than screws to affix brackets.
• Consider spring tension curtain rods that mount by pressing against walls.
• Discuss options with your landlord or building manager to get approval for drilling if needed.

With some creativity, you can mount great looking curtains in a rental while following apartment rules and causing no damage.

Alternatives to Curtains Over Blinds

While curtain rod brackets provide an easy solution, other options exist if you want to skip the layered look:

• Replace slats - Install new blind slats like faux wood, curtains, or solar shades.
• Swap blinds for curtains - Remove blinds and install curtain rods and drapes only.
• Add window film - Apply frosted, colored, or patterned films to glass.
• Shutters - Mount interior shutters for a clean, modern statement.

Consider your privacy, light filtering, and decor goals when weighing alternatives to curtains over existing blinds.

Tips for Straight, Secure Bracket Placement

A few tips for flawless bracket placement:

• Use a laser level when marking holes to ensure straight lines.
• Place outside mount brackets 2-3 inches wider than the window width.
• Pre-drill holes for brackets to prevent cracking plaster or wood.
• Use all holes in adjustable brackets to distribute weight evenly.
• Keep inside mount brackets equally spaced along the blinds.

Taking extra care at the measuring and installation steps prevents headaches down the road.

Reviews of Top Bracket Brands and Models

Based on customer feedback, some top-rated curtain rod brackets include:

• Umbra Twilight Rod - Stylish bronze finish with extension bars for wide windows.
• Kenney Add-On - Heavy duty steel with indented ridge to secure rod.
• HABbracket - Adaptable clips and pivots make precision placement easy.
• Karnes C Clip - Sturdy sleeve-type bracket for standard rods.
• Ikea Sektion - Affordable basic metal bracket with clean lines.

Look at reviews for information on real-world performance before selecting the best brackets for you.