How to Hang a Shower Curtain Rod

This project covers a fixed-mount shower curtain rod. This type of rod is more stable than a tension rod, which can be hung without any hardware to install.

As you get ready to hang a shower curtain rod, get everything you’ll need for the project.

Tools:

• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Long level
• Drill
• Drill bits
• Screwdriver
• Safety glasses
• Stepladder

Materials:

• Screws
• Mounting brackets
• Shower curtain rod
• Shower curtain hooks
• Shower curtain

Note: Most shower curtains come with the mounting brackets and screws you need to install them. Some shower curtain rods also come with a set of hooks or rings. Check the package contents of the rod you’re buying to be sure it has the necessary screws, brackets and hooks or rings.

As you figure out how to hang a shower curtain rod, you’ll need accurate measurements. Use a tape measure to measure how far apart the walls of the shower or tub are. If you will be hanging a shower curtain rod above a bathtub, measure the long side of the tub. You’ll need a shower curtain rod that will cover this distance.

An adjustable shower curtain rod can be extended to fit the opening of your shower. Still, you need to make sure the one you select will be wide enough. A common adjustable shower rod covers 60 to 72 inches. However, you may need a shorter or longer rod.

The height of the shower curtain rod is how far you want it to be above your shower or tub. It should be low enough that it overlaps the edge of the tub or shower to keep water from splashing out. The rod needs to be high enough to keep the shower curtain from dragging on the floor of the bathroom, which can cause mold or mildew to grow.

A typical shower curtain has a square shape that is 72 inches wide and 72 inches high. You’ll want to hang it at least 72 inches from the floor.

Measure from the base of the shower or tub on each wall. Use a pencil to make a mark on each side. Then use a long level to be sure your shower curtain rod will hang evenly. The rod should be parallel to the floor.

Once you’ve measured the height for the shower curtain rod, drill holes in the spots you marked on each wall. Hang the shower curtain rod from drywall instead of tile when possible.

If the mounting location must be in the tiled area, a special glass and tile drill bit will be needed. Place painter's tape over the area to be drilled and make the mark on the tape. A drill bit is prone to wander away from the mark when drilling into smooth tile and the tape will help hold the point in the right place. Start slowly, with just enough pressure to keep the bit in place. Don't push hard. When the bit breaks through the back of the tile, it will probably poke right through the backer board and there is a tendency to hit the tile with the drill chuck if great pressure is put on the drill.

If possible, drill through a grout seam rather than through a tile. It's easier to start the bit in grout and grout can be repaired easily if the another curtain rod or a door system is installed later.

Understand that drilling into tile can break it and there is some risk involved. A tension shower curtain rod may be a better choice than a fixed one.

Screw the mounting brackets into the wall. Position the bracket so that it will be able to hold the shower curtain rod. Then place the rod into the brackets. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific details on hanging the rod you have.

When the shower curtain rod is in place, use the long level to check it again. The rod should be hanging levelly.

Place the shower curtain hooks or rings on the rod. You can use the ones included with the rod, if you have them, or upgrade to a more decorative set.

Unfold the shower curtain and connect it to the hooks or rings on the rod. Depending on the hooks or rings you’re using, it may be easier to attach them to the shower curtain first. Then you can hang the curtain onto the rod.

Once the shower curtain is up, pull it closed. Take a close look at the hooks or rings. If you’ve missed one or two, connect them to the curtain.