Shower curtains don't weigh very heavy, so a lightweight rod can support them. Tie rods, which are the most common type, actually consist of a pair of rods, both of thin metal. A rod fits into the other, and a spring inside the larger rod maintains outward tension on the ends to hold it in place. Tie rods don't always do the job, especially when using double or heavy curtains .In this case, you may need to install a single wooden or metal rod supported at each end by brackets screwed to the walls.
How to Install and Adjust a Shower Curtain Rod
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Installation and adjustment of a tension rod
Installing a tension rod only takes a few minutes, but before you buy one, be sure to measure the distance between the walls of the tub alcove to make sure the one you buy is sufficient. long. If the distance the rod must cover is much longer than a conventional tub, more than about 6 or 7 feet, consider a sturdier alternative, such as a wooden or metal rod supported by brackets. Long tension rods tend to sag in the middle because the metal is so thin.
You adjust the length of a tension rod by twisting one section while holding the other steady. Turn the smaller diameter rod clockwise relative to the other to shorten the length and counterclockwise to shorten the length. lengthen. When installing the rod, adjust its length so that it almost fits the alcove, then insert the rod into the curtain hooks. Hold the rod in place with the curtain about an inch off the floor , then twist the smaller rod counter-clockwise to lengthen it. Continue twisting after both ends have made contact with the walls until the rod has enough tension to stay into place. Give the rod a final twist of a quarter turn or more just to be sure. If you find the curtain slipping while you're showering, you can usually fix it by twisting it a bit more.
Installation of a rod with supports
You can buy chrome shower rods with decorative brackets, or you can make your own rod with a length of wooden dowel and closet brackets. Either way, you need to cut the rod to length with a saw before you can install it. When cutting the rod, remember to take into account the thickness of the supports, which generally reduce the length of the rod by 1/4 to 3/8 inch.
The easiest way to position the brackets, so you can mark the screw hole positions for pre-drilling, is to measure for one, using a tape measure. Then hold the rod on this mark and use a level to position the other end, so you can make the mark on the other wall. Drill a pilot hole for an anchor screw on each wall, using a masonry drill bit if tile drilling is required. Tap an anchor into each hole, position the bracket, then drive in a screw to hold it in place.
If the rod has decorative escutcheons, be sure to slide them over the rod before placing it in the brackets. Once the rod is attached to the wall, you can slide these escutcheons to the ends to cover the brackets and tighten the set screw on each to hold it in place.
