Jumbo Sized Curtain Rods Explained
For windows with extra wide openings, finding curtains and rods with adequate length can be a challenge. Standard size drapery hardware often falls short of properly covering large wall expanses in today's open concept homes and spaces with soaring ceilings. Understanding the specifics of oversize curtain rod dimensions, features, and installation solutions is key to beautifully dressing outsized windows.
Understanding Oversize Curtain Rod Needs
Before shopping for supersized curtain rods, it's important to assess the requirements of your specific window space. Taking careful measurements and notes of your existing setup ensures proper scaling and functionality of rods and drapes.
Defining extra long rods for wide window openings
Extra long curtain rods are defined as poles that extend beyond the length of standard window hardware to accommodate wider wall openings. On average, most regular curtain rods max out at 120 inches (10 feet). Jumbo sizes start at lengths above 10 feet and may reach multiple yards in certain custom orders. These specialty extendable curtain rods allow you to cover incredibly wide windows that measure far beyond the capacity of typical pole lengths.
Reasons for needing extended length rods
Some of the common situations that call for oversize window treatments and curtain rods include:
- Floor to ceiling windows
- Combined window panes spanning full walls
- Vaulted ceilings with tall curtains
- Skylights and solar tubes
- Extra wide slider doors
- Long, narrow window configurations
In spaces with tall angled ceilings or second story windows, the wall area needing coverage can stretch many feet across. Having rods long enough to properly traverse and enclose the window space makes a huge functional and aesthetic difference in the room.
Measurements and dimensions to consider
When preparing to purchase extended length curtain rods and curtains, having detailed measurements of your current setup is paramount. You'll want to note the following dimensions:
- Exact window width from edge to edge
- Floor to ceiling height at tallest end
- Wall space/ceiling height above window frame
- Depth of window frame and sill
Record the specific lengths and openings that rods and curtains will need to span within your space. This info ensures proper scaling and full coverage drapery solutions.
Shopping Choices for Jumbo Sized Curtain Rods
Standard big box stores rarely carry specialty long curtain rods beyond basic extendable adjustable options. For heavy duty hardware in multiple yard lengths, custom fabrication or specialty suppliers are best. Here are some of the most common sources for extra large curtain rods.
Custom-made overlength curtain rod options
Working with skilled metal artisans and drapery workrooms allows the ultimate flexibility in scaling jumbo curtain rods to your exact window dimensions. Custom design services may include:
- Rods cut to your precise length and finished on site
- Choice of materials from wood to steel to brass
- Option of decorative custom finials and accessories
- Expert installation services
Drawbacks of full custom curtain work may be longer lead times and premium pricing. Yet for one of a kind windows and desired features, custom fabrication is often the best route.
Adjustable extendable curtain rods
Telescoping style adjustable stainless steel or aluminum rods allow excellent flexibility in spanning extra wide window ranges. More affordable than fixed static rods, adjustable extendable poles feature sleek integrated hardware for light duty to heavy duty use. Available features include:
- Maximum length capacity from 120 inches up to 288 inches
- Adjustment range of 2 to 3 feet
- Variety of polished metal finishes
- Minimal visible bracket hardware
- Easy pull-to-extend functionality
These versatile expanding rods solve tricky large window covering dilemmas with their built-in length customization abilities.
Extra wide ready-made telescoping rods
As a middle ground between custom fabrication and diy adjustable poles, many retailers offer extra long static telescoping rods in set giant dimensions. With no assembly or adjustments needed, these easy to install poles save time and money while still offering extended length capacity. What to know:
- Practical budget solution between custom and adjustable
- Heavy duty steel or aluminum arched construction
- Available up to 288 inches long in select online stores
- Includes coordinating finials and mounting brackets
- Large scale suits modern industrial and minimalist decors
These expanded width telescoping rods supply an affordable jump in hardware capacity for supersized windows and sliding doors.
Installing Solutions for Massive Wall Spaces
Spanning ceiling scraping window openings brings inherent challenges in securely and safely mounting oversize curtain rods. Taking into account bracket placement limitations, wall reinforcement, and specialty hanging solutions ensures smooth installation success.
Bracket placement challenges and tips
Standard width flat back plates for surface mounting curtain rod brackets quickly max out capacity once rods reach multiple yards in length. Upgrading to heavy duty commercial brackets, using ceiling support aids, and taking advantage of floor to ceiling poles solves these issues.
- Reinforce with ceiling to floor pole supports
- Utilize vertical or ceiling mounted assist poles
- Balance weight distribution with multiple brackets
- Anchor into wall studs for added security
Getting creative with structural supports prevents massive fallen rods and other hardware headaches.
Reinforced mount backing requirements
Prevent torn drywall anchors and other cracked wall failures by taking weight limits into account before hanging any sizable pole. Options for reinforced mounting backing include:
- Structural wood blocking attached to studs
- Brick, concrete, or other masonry walls
- Hollow drywall anchor alternatives
- Heavy duty toggle and molly bolts
In addition to sturdy bracket mounts, the pole itself should offer adequate thickness and diameter to reliably bear curtains across expansive lengths without bowing or sagging under normal use.
Rod attachments and stabilizing solutions
Supplemental devices provide extra assurance and stabilization through the following pole assist mechanisms:
- Ceiling mounted globe catches
- Decorative pole ties orribbons
- Clear plexiglass support straps
- Invisible nylon fishing line
Strategic use of stabilizing attachments crafts a fail proof installation designed to securely uphold even the longest and heaviest window rods.
Decorating with Giant Scale Curtains and Drapes
Once all the strategic planning and structural considerations are resolved, the fun part remains - dressing the rod! Choosing perfect super sized curtains and designing attractive giant window vignettes taps into fundamental decorating skills.
At triple extra length dimensions, even simple curtains take on palatial proportions. Keep these scaled up design notes in mind:
- Select lightweight sheers and tailored panels
- Consider taller floor puddles for drama
- Plan bigger budgets for yardage
- Account for billow factor