How to fit a curtain pole or blind
Quick answer: Measure and mark the bracket positions with a spirit level, check for cables, drill and fix the brackets with wall plugs (or plasterboard fixings), then hang the pole or blind. Fit a centre bracket on poles longer than about 1.5 metres and secure any blind cord with a safety device.
Curtain poles and blinds are about getting the position right and the fixings strong enough. A pole with heavy curtains pulls on the brackets all day, so cheap plastic plugs in loose plaster will not last.
Blind cords are a strangulation risk for young children, so always fit the cord safety device that comes with the blind.
What you will need
- Tape measure, pencil and spirit level
- Drill with masonry bit, and driver bit
- Cable and pipe detector
- Wall plugs and screws, or plasterboard fixings
- The pole kit or blind, with brackets and fixings
- Step ladder
Step by step
Measure
For a curtain pole, brackets go about 10 to 15 cm beyond each side of the window frame, and 10 to 15 cm above the top, so the curtains clear the frame. For an inside-recess blind, measure the width at the top, middle and bottom and use the narrowest.
Check behind the wall
Scan with a detector for cables and pipes. Window openings often have a lintel above: a steel or concrete beam. Standard masonry bits are fine for concrete, but a steel lintel needs a different approach.
Mark the bracket positions
Hold the brackets in position, use the spirit level to keep the line straight, and mark the screw holes with a pencil. Mark a centre bracket if the pole is more than about 1.5 metres.
Drill and plug
Drill the holes with a masonry bit sized to the wall plugs. Push the plugs in flush. In plasterboard use plasterboard fixings rated for the load, or fix into a timber batten.
Fix the brackets
Screw the brackets firmly to the wall. Check they are level with the spirit level.
Hang the pole or blind
Slide the rings or clips on the pole before you fit the finials. Set the pole in the brackets and tighten the small grub screws. For a roller or Roman blind, clip it into the brackets as the instructions say.
Fit the safety device
Attach the cord tidy, cleat or tension device to the wall or frame, out of reach of children (at least 1.5 metres above the floor), and keep cots, beds and furniture away from window cords.
Tips
- Heavy curtains and lined curtains need stronger brackets. Add a centre bracket.
- Use a long spirit level or a laser level to keep the pole straight over a wide window.
- Fit blackout blinds inside the recess for the best light block.
Stop and get help if
- Your detector finds a cable or pipe where you want to drill.
- The wall above the window is soft, crumbling or you cannot find a solid fixing. Ask a professional.
- You need to drill into a steel lintel or glazing bars of a uPVC window.
- The window is a very large bay and you are not confident measuring or lifting.
Would you rather we did it?
We cover Sandwich and East Kent. Send us a quick message on WhatsApp, ideally with a photo, and we will come back with a price and a day.
Common questions
How high above the window should a curtain pole go?
Usually about 10 to 15 cm above the frame, or a little higher for ceilings that are low, to make the window look taller.
Do I need a centre bracket on a curtain pole?
Yes for poles longer than about 1.5 metres, or any pole with heavy curtains, or the pole will sag.
Are blind cords dangerous?
Yes. Looped cords are a strangulation risk to young children. Fit the safety device supplied with the blind, keep cords out of reach and keep cots and beds away from windows.
More guides
Last reviewed 17 October 2026. This guide is general information for UK homes and is not a substitute for the manufacturer's instructions. If the job involves gas, mains wiring, asbestos, structural work or working at height, or you are unsure, ask a suitably qualified person.