Installing a new shower curtain rod
The bathroom shower rod is not usually the focal point of the room's decor. Often, this functional accessory is the last thing one thinks about during a remodeling project. But, if you take a look at it, you may be somewhat surprised. The bathroom, by its very nature, is a damp place and dampness often leads to mold or corrosion. The shower rod is exposed to moisture and can really take a beating. Replacing a shower rod is a simple procedure that even the most inept do-it-yourself can tackle alone. Here is a quick lesson to help guide you through this process.
The first thing you need to decide is whether you want a spring tensioning rod or one that is installed in the walls of the shower. If your shower stall is lined with tile or fiberglass, the spring rod style is the most practical. It is not advisable to drill into tile, as it may crack, and making any holes in fiberglass can result in water seeping under the enclosure. However, if you have wallboard above tile, you might want to consider a permanent rod.
In either case, you will need to measure the opening of the shower or tub area to ensure that the rod you select will be long enough to fit the area. Write down the measurement before you go to shop for the rod. Normally, shower curtain rods can be purchased at any hardware or home improvement store. Discount and bed and bath stores also carry a variety of rods, and you can even pick up this item at many higher end stores in their bed and bath sections.
Once you arrive at the store, you may find spring rods in different colors. They are also available in plastic or aluminum. If you like to change your color scheme frequently, select a neutral white or off-white plastic coated rod. Or, you can choose a rod that will coordinate with your colors. While you are there, you might also want to pick up a new set of curtain hooks to match. These hooks can also become dirty or moldy with time and fresh new ones will complete the look.
Installing a Spring Tensioning Rod
The first step to install a new rod is to remove the old one. To do this, grab the existing rod about a quarter of the way from the end and gently pull the rod away from the wall. This should release the end so that you can remove it. When the existing rod has been removed, mark the spots where the ends were so that you can put the new rod in the same position.
Before you install the new rod, clean the wall area thoroughly and let it dry completely. Once the wall is dry, remove the new rod from its packaging, and hold it in position between the opening. For packaging purposes, these rods are usually compressed to their smallest length. You will need to twist the rod clockwise to extend it to the correct length for your wall opening. Keep checking the length against the opening measurement. The rod should be slightly longer than the opening so that it will fit tightly and not slip. If it is too long, twist counter-clockwise, and the length will lessen.
Once the rod is the correct length to fit the opening, compress one end and allow it to "pop" into place on the corresponding side. The rod should be taut. Check to make sure that you can't easily pull it down. Once you are satisfied the rod is secure, install the hooks and curtains. This completes the process.
NOTE: If you are installing a rod for the first time, you will need to measure the length of your curtain to determine the positioning of the rod on the wall. Once you know how high the rod should be, measure up from the floor and mark both sides so that the rod will be level. When you are fitting the rod into place, you might want to check it with a mechanical level.
Installing a Permanent Shower Curtain Rod
A permanent rod is held in place by brackets on either end. These brackets are secured to the wall by three or four screws depending on the design of the bracket. Look at the bracket. Sometimes, you can simply lift the rod up from it. The new rod can be set in place on the existing brackets. Other designs will require that you remove the bracket on one side and then remove the existing rod. In these instances, the new rod can be installed using the existing bracket on one side, and then securing the other bracket to the other side.
If you are replacing an existing rod and want to replace the brackets as well, use the old holes to position the new brackets, but drill some new holes to prevent slippage. If this is a new installation, measure the length of the curtain, and then measure up from the floor, marking both sides of the wall to determine the positioning of the brackets, so that the rod will be level. When you are fitting the rod into place, you check it with a mechanical level. Replace the hooks and curtain, and you are ready to go.
Always refer to packaged directions when undertaking any project, no matter how simple. Sometimes the manufacturer offers helpful hints that can make the job easier. As always, use precaution when standing on ladders.