How to install a shower curtain rail

Installing new shower curtain rails or rods is a fairly east DIY task and can be achieved in a very short space of time. There are two main types of curtain rails to choose from spring loaded, or permanently installed into the wall. To learn how to install a shower curtain rod, read the guide below.

Spring loaded

Easily installed. Installing spring loaded curtain rails is a simple task, they twist to be lengthened and are held in place by tension. They can be easily adjusted and if you move home, they can be easily removed and taken with you leaving no holes in the wall. Disadvantages One disadvantage is that they are not as stable as permanently installed rails and cannot take the weight of clothing or towels hung to dry.

Permanent installations

Measuring Measure the length of the curtain or hold it up to check its length against the bath or shower unit where it is to be installed. Allow for an over hang to stop the water from escaping onto the bathroom floor. Mark in pencil where you want to place the bracket onto the wall. Do the same at the other end and ensure they are at a horizontal position. Drilling the holes Place one bracket over the mark you made in the wall and draw round pencil circles where the screw holes need to be in the wall. Remove the bracket and if the rail is to go directly into the wall, use the correct-sized drill bit and make a hole. Tap plastic anchors into the holes. Do the same for the other hole to be drilled. Drilling into tiles If you are having to drill holes into tiled walls, a little care is needed not to damage the tiles during the drilling process. Cover the tile with masking tape and then mark where it is to be drilled. Use a carbide tipped drill bit as this is capable of penetrating tile with minimal pressure. Operate the drill slowly while the holes are being drilled. Securing the brackets and rail Place each end of the brackets over the curtain rail and secure to the wall with the screws which were provided for the installation. This leaves you then to attach the shower curtain to the rail. Some shower curtain hooks or clips require their being attached to the rail before it is secured to the wall.