How to Hang Different Types of Curtains: Rods vs Tracks?

Curtains are not just window coverings. They frame a space, set the mood, and control both privacy and light. But while choosing the right fabric and color is essential, understanding how to hang curtains correctly plays an equally important role in bringing your interior vision to life. That’s where hardware—specifically curtain rods and tracks—comes into the picture.

With so many types of curtains, rods, and tracks available, it can be overwhelming to pick the right setup for your home. In this blog, we’ll explore the difference between curtain rod vs track, discuss the pros and cons of each, and guide you through the various types of curtain rods and types of curtain tracks best suited for different styles.

Whether you're redecorating or moving into a new space, this guide is your complete resource to hang curtains for home like a pro.

Why Curtain Hanging Systems Matter?

Curtain hardware is more than a technicality. It impacts the overall aesthetic, how smoothly the curtain opens, how much light you can block, and even how easy it is to clean or change the curtains. Choosing between rods and tracks depends on your curtain style, window type, and the overall look you want to achieve.

Let’s begin by breaking down the most popular types of curtains and how they interact with rods and tracks.

Types of Curtains and Their Hanging Styles

The style of your curtain affects what hardware works best. Here are some of the most common different types of curtains and how they are typically hung:

1. Eyelet Curtains

These come with metal rings at the top and are designed to slide directly onto a rod. They are modern, easy to operate, and perfect for casual settings.

Best for: Curtain rods

2. Pencil Pleat Curtains

These have tightly gathered pleats and offer a more traditional look. They can be hung on both rods (with rings or hooks) and tracks (using gliders).

Best for: Rods or tracks

3. Tab Top Curtains

Fabric loops at the top make these ideal for rods. They offer a relaxed, country-style appearance.

Best for: Curtain rods

4. Rod Pocket Curtains

The rod slips through a sewn-in pocket. These offer a seamless look but can be harder to slide open.

Best for: Curtain rods

5. Wave or Ripple Fold Curtains

These feature continuous soft folds and need specialized curtain tracks to maintain shape.

Best for: Curtain tracks

6. Box Pleat or Goblet Curtains

More formal styles that usually require hooks and work best on tracks or traditional curtain rings.

Best for: Tracks or rings on rods

By matching the curtain style with the right hardware, you ensure ease of use and preserve the visual appeal.

Curtain Rod vs Track: What’s the Difference?

Choosing between a curtain rod vs track often comes down to aesthetic preference and practicality. Here’s a comparison of both options.

i). Curtain Rods

Curtain rods are decorative, visible, and come in many finishes and materials. They are installed using brackets and can hold various curtain styles.

Pros:

• Adds a visual element to your décor

• Easy to install and replace

• Works well with casual and decorative curtains

• Available in many designs and finishes

Cons:

• Curtains may not slide as smoothly

• Requires enough wall space for brackets

ii).Curtain Tracks

Tracks are discreet and often mounted to the ceiling or hidden behind pelmets. They use gliders or runners to smoothly open and close the curtains.

Pros:

• Offers a minimal, clean look

• Ideal for large windows or ceiling-to-floor curtains

• Smooth operation for heavy or pleated curtains

• Can be curved for bay windows

Cons:

• Less decorative

• More complex to install or customize

Understanding the advantages of each will help you decide which system best fits your room's layout and curtain style.

Types of Curtain Rods

Rods are not just metal poles—they come in different forms to serve different purposes. Let’s explore the most popular types of curtain rods:

1. Single Rod

A basic rod to hang one layer of curtains, perfect for everyday use in living rooms or bedrooms.

2. Double Rod

Holds two layers—sheer and blackout—on separate rods for more light control and versatility.

3. Tension Rod

A no-drill option for small windows or rental spaces, held in place by tension.

4. Traverse Rod

Allows the curtain to be opened or closed using a cord or wand, often used with pleated curtains.

5. Return Rod

Wraps slightly around the window edge, offering better light blocking and insulation.

Each of these different kinds of curtain rods serves a unique function depending on how you want your curtains to perform.

Types of Curtain Tracks

Now let’s look at some of the types of curtain tracks commonly used for a more streamlined or functional curtain setup.

1. Standard Curtain Track

A simple track system with gliders, usually mounted on the ceiling or wall.

2. Motorized Curtain Track

Automated opening and closing, ideal for smart homes or hard-to-reach windows.

3. Flexible Curtain Track

Bendable for bay windows or curved walls, offering a custom fit.

4. Double Curtain Track

Allows layering—sheers on one track and blackout curtains on another.

These options offer a tailored approach to curtain hanging and are especially useful in spaces where form and function must meet.

How to Hang Curtains Step-by-Step?

Now that you know your curtain type and hardware option, here is how to hang your curtains properly:

Step 1: Measure Your Window

Add extra width (at least 6 to 12 inches) on both sides of your window to allow curtains to be drawn fully. Also, determine how high above the window you want to mount the rod or track. Higher placements give the illusion of taller ceilings.

Step 2: Choose the Right Hardware

Select your rod or track based on curtain style, room function, and aesthetic. Ensure it can handle the curtain’s weight.

Step 3: Install the Rod or Track

Use a level and measuring tape to ensure symmetry. Mount brackets or track holders securely using appropriate screws or anchors.

Step 4: Hang the Curtains

Attach hooks, rings, or gliders as needed. Make sure the curtain height allows it to graze the floor or hover just above for a clean finish.

This basic guide helps simplify the process of how to hang curtains in any room, from bedrooms to living spaces.

Choosing the Right Curtains for Home

When selecting curtains for home, consider not just the look but also how often you’ll draw them, the room’s light needs, and your hardware setup. Match light fabrics with rods for casual spaces and go with tracks for heavier or formal curtains. For homes with high ceilings or modern architecture, tracks offer a sleek solution. For traditional or decorative interiors, rods can double as a design feature.

Also Read - Choosing the Best Curtain Fabrics for Your Home

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between curtain rod vs track and knowing how to match them with the types of curtains you choose makes a noticeable impact on your room’s design. Whether you prefer the bold statement of rods or the subtle elegance of tracks, the right hardware enhances not just how your curtains function but also how your space feels.

From choosing among the types of curtain rods to installing specific types of curtain tracks, every decision adds up to a finished look that feels thoughtful and complete. With the help of this guide, you now know how to hang curtains the right way—ensuring your curtains for home look as beautiful as they perform.