When it comes to the accessories for bath, the shower curtain rod is one of the most overlooked items. It however, has a major input in the practicality and looks of your showering enclosure. Whether you are planning on a makeover of your bathroom or merely adding a change, the shower curtain rod is a factor that might help a lot. Shower curtain rods are as diverse and important as any other home fixture; in this read, you’ll learn all there is to know on shower curtain rods including the various categories, making materials, installation procedures and maintenance techniques.
The Different Styles of Shower Curtain Rods
Straight Shower Curtain Rods
There are many types of shower curtain and the straight shower curtain rods are the common and basic type that you will find in many homes. These rods are simple in design and hence can be very easy to install since they are designed for normal bathtubs and showers.
Straight rods are most general and can be applied in any length and of different material. Both tension and screws are used to mount gearmotors. Tension mounted rods are ideal especially for renters or people who do not want any screws in their walls, but screw mounted rods will be more permanent and strong into walls. If you decide to go for a straight rod, bear in which width your shower or bathtub has to fit into.
Curved Shower Curtain Rods
The bathroom and shower enclosures become co-ordinated and stylish if curved shower curtain rods are used. While straight rods are those that run straight, curved shower rods bow outward giving more room within the showering region. This can create a feeling of spaciousness which is more comforting than when you get the feeling that you are enclosed in a cramped space when taking a shower.
Such rods are very useful in small bathrooms where space is a major issue. Some of the curved rods can also help in eliminating the shower curtain from hugging you when you bath, making you more comfortable. Some amount of extra work may be needed during the installation compared to the straight rods, but the advantages normally exceed the disadvantages observed.
Double Shower Curtain Rods
Double shower curtain rods are particularly helpful for those who want an optimal balance of an object’s practical and aesthetic values. As mentioned by the name, these rods have two side bars that run in the parallel directions. The outer bar is installed for the placement of the shower curtain, whereas the inner bar can be used for the additional liner or to hang towels and such.
This type of rod is very suitable for showering area of a home and this enables one to access anything that she or he needs within this area. Double rods are of two types: straight and curved and this means that users can always get the kind of bathroom that they want from the available products. What they need is a bit more width than the single rods, hence be sure your bathroom has enough space to contain the extra width.
Materials and Finishes
Stainless Steel
Many shower curtain rods are made from stainless steel and are as such very resistant to rusting and corrosion. They can recommended for the bathrooms with much humidity because your rod will be preserved in good condition for many years.
However, other than the functions, stainless steel rods give a touch of modernity that is fitting for most modern bathroom schemes. They are consummately washable and require little effort to look brand spanking new, consequently popular for most households.
Aluminum
Aluminum rods are very portable and resistant, therefore complicated to break and easy to use in constructions. They are also rust proof, which is quite important in as much as the physical and aesthetic durability of the various system components are concerned.
The aluminum rods can be in brushed, polished or have a matte finish. This diversity gives you opportunity to associate the choice of the rod with other fittings and accessories in the bathroom. To summarize alloy while being a bit cheaper than stainless steel offers a good quality and long life material.
Brass
It is very fancy and can create a classic, timeless look – bronze brass shower curtain rods. They are denser and stronger than other materials, thus giving the device a luxury touch and high durability. Brass rods are commonly treated with some types of protecting coatings to avoid oxidation and cor Ion.
These rods are suitable for simple or retro styles of the bathroom. In as much as they are quite shiny, they may demand slightly more effort to be lavished on so that they can retain their shiny look; nonetheless, the beauty they add to the place alone makes all the difference.
Installation Tips
Measuring Your Space
When choosing a shower curtain rod there are important factors that one should consider these include size. The process of calculation must begin with the determination of the width of your shower or bathtub zone. Besides the straight rod, if the rod is curved then the additional space to allow for the bowl outwards should be considered. Some of these measurements include; Record all these measurements so that you may be in a position to choose the right rod.
Next, try to select the height on which you wish to put the rod fitted for your home. Generally, the distance should be such that the shower curtain just barely reaches the floor, and no water spills out of the shower entrance. Place a mark on the sides of the shower or bathtub to serve as the length of the installation.
Selection of Proper Mounting Techniques
The mounting style you prefer is a matter of personal decision and availability of enough space in your bathrooms. Tension-mounted rods do not require hectic fixing and can easily be relocated hence suitable for rental houses. One thing with the rod is that you have to turn it to the required length and fix it between the two walls.
Screw-mounted types provide the most stable and core base for the pipes or rods as they are fixed with screws. To install them, you need to chisel some holes on the wall then screw the rod brackets on the wall. This method offers more stability especially when using heavy rod or when using double rod. It also important to ensure that there is required tools are available and follow the instruction from the manufactures.
Step-by-Step Installation
- Prepare the Area: Clear the shower or bathtub area of any obstacles and ensure the walls are clean and dry. This preparation will help the rod adhere properly and provide a secure fit.
- Mark the Position: Use a pencil to mark the height and width where the rod will be installed. Double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy.
- Install the Brackets: For screw-mounted rods, drill pilot holes at the marked positions and attach the brackets using screws. For tension-mounted rods, extend the rod to the desired length and position it between the walls.
- Attach the Rod: Place the rod into the brackets or extend it into position for tension-mounted rods. Ensure it is level and secure.
- Hang the Curtain: Slide the shower curtain rings onto the rod and hang your curtain. Adjust the curtain as needed to ensure it hangs evenly and covers the entire shower area.
Maintenance and Care
Regular Cleaning
For your shower curtain rod to remain stylish, then you have to ensure that you clean it often. It is advisable to wash the rod with warm water and MILD liquid soap then rinse it with water to remove soap scum, dirt and moisture. This practice will assist in reduction of grime accumulation and upkeep of the rod’s aesthetic appeal.
For the stainless steel as well as brass, it is recommended to use a metal polish for better gloss and to avoid the case of tarnishing. It is always recommended that the user adheres to the manufacturer’s instructions on the care and handling of the rod not to damage it.
Preventing Rust and Corrosion
The daily use of your shower curtain exposes the shower curtain rod to rust and corrosion which shortens its durability. To avoid these problems, make sure that the bathroom you are using is well ventilated in order to avoid humidity. Every after shower, wipe off the water left on the rod and curtain using a squeegee or a cloth.
It is recommended to paint the rod, or cover it with other safeguard if the rod is made of metal. This coating can be used to add extra protection of moisture and can also help increase the durability of the rod. Thus, it is necessary to check the rod frequently and clean and replace the bushing if signs of rust or corrosion are detected.
Changing Your Shower Curtain Rod
Eventually, even the ones which are well taken care of, you will realize that the shower curtain rods require replacement. If the rod looks significantly worn or damaged, or has spots of rust that can’t be sanded or scraped away, it is time to go out and get a new one. When it is time to replace your rod, consider other types of rods and materials out there before you arrive at a decision that most suits your bathroom.
Conclusion
Selecting the right shower curtain rod will require one to take many aspects into perceival including the type of shower curtain rod and the material used, the ease of installation as well as the ease of cleaning it. With this in mind and by going through the points above, you’ll be in a position to make a good decision that will enable you choose a rod that not only serves your need but also blends well with the rest of the décor in your bathroom. Furthermore, they are available in straight, curved or the latest double style, and indeed this makes your shower more entertaining and stylish.
