How To Hang Door Panel Curtains

Panel curtains work as a unique decorative piece on doors. They are particularly helpful in adding a layer of privacy to glass doors such as French or sliding doors. But before anything, you might be wondering how to hang a door panel curtain. We did the research to bring you the answer.

While door panel curtain installation follows a simple process, there are two methods:

• Using sash rods
• Using a curtain rail

Note that these methods require you to use nails and screws to attach to either the door or the walls. If the situation calls for it, you can install door curtains without drilling or using screws.

In this post, we will delve into what you should do to hang curtains and what to consider before doing so. Keep reading as we elaborate on each method of installing door panel curtains and the benefits that they offer.

How To Hang Curtain Panels On French Doors

Compared to other doors, a French door is built with glass panes, extending most of its length. Although they allow more light to enter, they provide you with less privacy.

One way to counter this is by installing door curtains through the methods below:

Using Sash Rods

When using sash curtain rods, measure the area of the door you will be covering. With these, it is usually to cover the door's window.

Ensure there is a pocket at the top and bottom of the panel before you purchase them. These are where the rods will go.

To start, follow these steps:

1. Take the curtain panel and slide one of the sash rods into the pocket, starting with the top.
2. Hold up the rod in its position and mark where the mounting hardware goes. For this, the panel should lie flat or straight without too much or too little tension. Ask someone to hold down the other side for you.
3. Once marked, drill the holes for the screws or nails.
4. Secure the mounting hardware and rod in their proper places.
5. Repeat steps 1 to 4 with the bottom side of the panel.
6. Finish up by sealing the ends of the rods with their provided covers, if any.

Click here to see these white sash curtain rods on Amazon.

Using A Curtain Rail

You can attach door curtain panels as you would with any window curtain by using a single rod placed on top of the door. This method may require you to purchase a curtain that touches the floor to cover the glass pane completely.

Follow these steps to get started:

1. Determine where to put the curtain rod brackets. These can come with the curtain rod set but can also be purchased separately. Make sure the distance is enough to hold the rod and cover up the door.
2. Mark their position and drill pilot holes in their places.
3. Screw in the brackets accordingly.
4. Remove one of the ends of the curtain rod and slide in the curtain. Cap it back once done.
5. Hang the rod onto the brackets.

Click here to see this round curtain rod in espresso on Amazon.

Click here to see these adjustable curtain rod brackets on Amazon.

How Do You Hang Curtains On A Door Without Nails?

For some homes, you may not be able to use screws or nails when installing curtains for your door. If this is the case, consider the following methods to hang up curtains without drilling holes:

Using Magnetic Curtain Rods

Magnetic curtain rods are recommended for use on steel French doors. Attaching magnetic curtain rods will not work on other doors because of the material.

If you're interested in getting a steel door, read further to find out how it differs from fiberglass in this post: Steel Vs Fiberglass Door – Which Is Better For You?

Below are the steps to take in installing the curtain rods:

1. Decide whether you want to use a single rod or double rods. When measuring, note that the brackets will attach outside of the door window's molding. Once you've made your choice, you can proceed with purchasing the curtain and rods.
2. Position the brackets in your desired places.
3. Insert the rod into the curtain pocket and secure the ends. Place the rod on the brackets.
4. If you are installing double rods, start with the top rod. When you are satisfied with the placement, proceed to repeat the steps for the bottom rod.
5. Adjust the brackets as much as necessary to ensure the curtain is level.

Click here to see this magnetic curtain rod pack on Amazon.

Using Tension Rods

Another option is using tension rods, which use a spring mechanism to keep the rod in place. Out of all the options available, these are the easiest to install.

To use tension rods, follow these steps:

1. Measure the length of the inner part of the door window. Purchase a tension rod that is suitable for the measurement.
2. Slip the rod into the curtain pocket.
3. Rotate the top of the knob, then twist it to your desired length.
4. Squeeze the rod into the place you want it to go to install.
5. If you are only covering the window area, follow the same steps with the bottom part.

Click here to see these white tension rods on Amazon.

How Do You Fit A Door Curtain?

Getting the appropriate measurements for a door curtain plays a vital role in covering up the window. A door is frequently opened and shut, so having the right length prevents any interference with door usage.

Here are the steps to fit a door panel curtain:

1. Measure the height and width of the whole door or the area that you want to cover. Note that measuring for door panel height usually doesn't include any rod pockets.
2. When writing down the length, allot an extra 2 inches from the measurement. If you will be using top and bottom rods, add about 2 to 3 inches for the pockets or measure the curtain excluding the rod pockets before purchasing them.
3. For the width, get a curtain about twice the size that you measured.

Click here to see this door curtain panel on Amazon.

Are Door Curtains A Good Idea?

Installing door curtains come with various benefits, especially for homeowners whose front doors have portions made up of glass. The top reason for having door curtains is to give the inside of your home more privacy.

Adding them to glass front doors can block out heat during extreme outdoor conditions. At the same time, it limits the amount of light that enters the home to a minimal or natural amount.

They also add to the theme and atmosphere of a home, so you can match the curtains to the colors of throw pillows and other decorative items. In the same sense, it improves the home's ambiance when put in the right places.

Click here to see this linen textured door panel curtain on Amazon.

Are Door Curtains Good For Patio Doors?

Door curtains can also be used on patio doors for added privacy and style. It provides your home with enough coverage while adding to the overall aesthetics.

As opposed to solid blinds, curtains are softer to the touch. Therefore, they are easier to move and adjust. Their flow matches well with the movements of a sliding patio door.

Most door curtains are pocket-style to help cover up windows, such as with French doors. However, this style will prevent a patio door from having a smooth operation because they slide. If possible, get a grommet-style or pinch pleat type of curtain.

Click here to see this tree curtain for a patio door on Amazon.

If you're interested in knowing more about sliding doors, read through this post: How Big Are Sliding Doors?

In Closing

Door curtains are a quick and simple way to improve the privacy a glass door has to offer. Common glass doors include French doors and sliding or patio doors.

To hang door curtains, you can choose between using different types of rods and placements. The most popular choice is sash rods when it comes to covering up only the window area. Other options include single rods and non-screw-type alternatives.

Keep in mind that getting the proper measurements is crucial in smooth door curtain installation.