While choosing or creating a new bathroom or remodeling it, people do not even consider the role of shower curtain rod yet it has a significant impact on effectiveness and appearance. There also are different materials, shapes, and types of shower curtain rods and this is why it is crucial to make the right choice. In this guide, you will learn all that there is to know about shower curtain rods including; the varieties available in the market, installation processes and methods, and their maintenance.
Types of shower curtain rods: slider and catalog
Shower curtain rods come in various styles and this is because they are manufactured depending on the kind of bathroom that is being used and the kind of curtains that are being installed. This is the type that will depend on the area you have, the existing style of your bathroom, and the kind of functionality that you need.
Straight Shower Curtain Rods: One of the simplest and the most conventional models are the straight rods that are installed horizontally across your bathtub or shower area. These are best suited for any small bathroom space and they give a neat and sleek look.
Curved Shower Curtain Rods: Curved rods bend outwards, meaning the shower curtain has even more space in which it can hang, you’ll find there’s even extra space for your elbows. This type is most suitable if you do not want to feel as though you are enclosed in a shower and it suitable for standard bathtubs.
L-shaped or U-shaped Rods: These rods are intended for corner showers or freestanding tubs, in which a straight rod will not work. They are either arranged to cover the shower area in the form of an L or a U shape and as it forms this kind of arrangement, the curtain can be used to cover the tub.
Tension Rods: Tension rods are cost-effective, they are easy to install and also they do not need to be screwed into the walls. They only hang through the pressure of two walls and are hence suitable for those who do not own their houses or those who do not want to fixation.
Double Shower Curtain Rods: A double rod can let the shower liner and an outer fashion curtain hang on two different rods one next to the other. It also becomes easier to keep it clean and it is far more polished and is layered.
How to Choose the Right Material
Shower curtain rods are also made from different materials with different values of durability and appearance. Here are the most common materials used in shower curtain rods: Here are the most common materials used in shower curtain rods:
Stainless Steel: Finding durability and apt resistance to rust, shower curtain rods are often made out of stainless steel. It is specially designed for areas, which require high humidity, such as a bathroom, and has a very elegant minimalistic design.
Aluminum: Extremely light and highly resistant to corrosion, aluminum is another material that will be great for shower rods. In addition, it is cheaper than stainless steel and also comes in various forms of surface finish depending on what your bathroom looks like.
Brass: As for the shower curtain rods, yes, they are also very functional but for people who want to add a little more class, then the brass shower curtain rods are the best to use. However, they are relatively prone to tarnishing as compared to stainless steel or Aluminum and therefore they need to be polished more often.
Plastic: Pre-touched plastic rods are cheap and easily accessible in many colors although, … do not have the strength and durability of the metal bars. They can be used as a short-term solution but they are not very durable and can get infected by fungus within a short time if exposed to a damp environment.
Nickel and Chrome Finishes: It features a smooth-to-touch surface with a shiny finish and can be well adopted in both modern and traditional bathroom settings. These two finishes do not corrode easily and hence offer very good service in as much as the durability aspect is concerned.
Installation Tips for Shower Curtain Rods
Correct installation of shower curtains ensures that the shower curtain rod is well-fixed and usable. Here are some key tips to consider during the installation process: Here are some key tips to consider during the installation process:
Measure the Space: Before purchasing a rod measure how long it is that the rod is to be placed on the walls in between. This confirms that the rod has the right length which will not leave any gaps when fitted or be too short.
Choose the Right Height: Place the rod as high as possible with the shower curtain just touching the bottom of the shower or the edge of the bathtub. It retains shower water and does not allow the water to sneak out from the shower area while giving a facelift to the shower.
Install with Proper Anchors: Be very cautious when fixing a rod that has the screws, to fix it, you should use wall anchors. This is especially the case should the curtain be heavier or if the curtain will have to hold extra weight such as when using a heavier fabric or using two layers of the curtain.
Use Tension Rods for Quick Installation: It even comes in handy if you don’t wish to drill holes on the walls, tension rods are ideal. All you need to do is turn the rod with your hands in a clockwise direction to screw it and fix it firmly between two walls. Ensure that its lengthy side is placed at a leveled position as well as the joints tightly attached to avoid sliding.
Corner and Custom Installations: To be used in the corners or certain layouts, there are certain types like L-shaped and the U-shaped rods. : Some of them might call for special mounting brackets so that they can be well-fixed and properly affixed.
Style and Aesthetic Considerations
A good shower curtain rod acts as an addition and enhances the general appearance of your bathroom. Here are some style considerations to keep in mind when selecting your rod: Here are some style considerations to keep in mind when selecting your rod:
Finish: The type of finish of your rod should be in harmony with other fixtures that are found in your bathroom for instance the faucets, the towel bar, and even the cabinet handles. Some of the most common choices of crowning are chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, and oil-rubbed bronze.
Shape: Because with curved rods the light is distributed in a round shape starting with the points and ending with the curve, it looks much more elegant, compared to just clean straight lines which many clients seem to prefer. Select the shape that will fit in the preferred design theme of your bathroom.
Double Rods for Added Functionality: If you would like to have a more complicated shower curtain design, a double shower curtain rod will let you put a colored or patterned outer curtain and a lining curtain. This gives the space of your bathroom an extra dimension in terms of texture.
How to Care for Your Shower Curtain Rod
For you to be able to prolong the duration of the shower curtain rod, then it is advisable to carry out some maintenance. Here’s how to keep it in top condition.
Clean Regularly: Shower curtain rods should be cleaned often to avoid the support of soap film, water rings, and rust. Wipe with a damp cloth and gentle cleaner to clean the surface of nasty deposits.
Conclusion
Today there is a great variety of shower curtain rods that are functional and aesthetic items important for any bathroom. Choosing between slim straight and curvy, premium bendy, or handy tensioned, the material, look, and setup method improves the bathroom experience and appearance. If you take proper care of your shower curtain rod, then you will find that it endure for a long period and make the showering place elegant.