Whether you’re a renter or a homeowner, there are so many reasons to avoid drilling holes in your walls. For starters, if you drill in the wrong place, you’ll have an ugly hole in your wall. If you’re a renter, you run the risk of losing your security deposit – an expensive price to pay to have curtains on the wall.
Thankfully, there are great alternatives available that don’t involve putting holes in your wall or wielding a drill.
In this article, we’ll explore various techniques that apartment renters can utilize to achieve the desired look without violating lease agreements or causing damage.
Option 1: Tension Rods
If your windows have window frames, tension rods are a versatile and easy-to-use alternative to hand curtains without drilling. Often used to hang shower curtains, these rods can easily adjust to fit snugly within window frames or between walls. Depending on the look you’re going for, tension rods offer the flexibility to position the rod at the top of the window or mid-way for a cafe style.
Tension rods come in various lengths and thicknesses, making them suitable for different window sizes and curtain weights. Consider the weight of the curtain when selecting a tension rod. Some are ideal for sheer panels whereas others support heavy blackout curtains.
How to Install Tension Rods:
Step 1: Twist or expand the rod until it fits securely.
Step 2: Once in place, hang your curtains using the rod’s built-in rod pocket or clips.
Option 2: Command Hooks
Self-adhesive Command hooks are the ideal solution when it comes to decorating without drilling. These adhesive hooks adhere to a range of surfaces and are typically removed without leaving any damage or residue behind. Command hooks come in various sizes and designs and offer customizations to suit various styles and preferences.
When purchasing Command hooks, check the weight limit to ensure they can support your curtains. If you need to hang blackout curtains or something heavier, consider a sturdier solution such as double-sided tape from EZlifego.
How to Install Command Hooks:
Step 1: Select hooks based on the weight of your curtains.
Step 2: Attach the hooks to the wall or window frame at the desired height and spacing.
Step 3: After attaching the hooks, allow them to sit for an hour (or more depending on the manufacturer’s instructions). The hooks may come off the wall if curtains hang on them too soon.
Step 4: Thread the curtain rod through the hooks.
Step 5: Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application and removal to avoid stripping the paint on the walls.
Option 3: Magnetic Curtain Rods
Magnetic curtain rods are another great option for renters who can’t drill into walls but have some limitations in that they are only used on magnetic surfaces. These rods offer strong magnets that adhere to metal surfaces such as window frames or metal doors. Magnetic curtain rods are easy to install and remove, making them ideal for temporary or rental situations.
How to Install Magnetic Curtain Rods:
Step 1: To hang curtains using magnetic rods, place the rod against the metal surface and adjust it to the desired width.
Step 2: Once in position, attach the curtains to the rod using rod pockets or clips.
Option 4: Tension Wire Systems
Tension wire systems offer a great minimalist approach to hanging curtains without drilling. These systems consist of thin wires stretched horizontally between wall-mounted brackets. Tension wire systems provide a sleek and unobtrusive look, perfect for hanging curtains, creating a cozy reading nook, or dividing living areas in a studio apartment.
How to Install Tension Wire Systems
Step 1: To install a tension wire system, attach the brackets to the wall at the desired height and spacing, then thread the wire through the brackets.
Step 2: Once the wire is taut, use curtain clips or hooks to hang your curtains.
Option 5: Velcro Strips
Velcro strips provide a secure yet removable solution for hanging curtains without drilling. Velcro strips offer flexibility in positioning and can be easily adjusted or removed as needed.
How to Install Velcro Strips
Step 1: Choose heavy-duty Velcro strips suited for the weight of your curtains.
Step 2: Attach one side of the Velcro strip to the wall or window frame and the other side to the curtain rod or fabric tabs.
Step 3: Press the Velcro strips together firmly to ensure a strong bond.
Option 6: Curtain Tension Rods
Curtain tension rods are similar to traditional tension rods but offer additional support for heavier curtains. These rods typically come with a center support bracket to prevent sagging in the middle. Curtain tension rods are ideal for hanging thicker curtains, such as blackout curtains, without the need for drilling. Curtain tension rods also offer stability and style without damaging your walls.
How to Install Curtain Tension Rods
Step 1: To install a curtain tension rod, follow the same steps as a standard tension rod.
Step 2: Adjust the rod to fit securely within the window frame or between walls.
Hang Curtains Without Drilling Into Your Walls
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style and functionality when it comes to window treatments. By exploring alternative methods, renters can easily hang curtains without drilling into walls. These solutions offer versatility, ease of installation, and the flexibility to customize your space without violating lease agreements or causing damage.
With a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you can achieve the perfect window decor while adhering to your rental restrictions.
If you’re in the market for a new apartment, Draper and Kramer’s spacious and luxurious apartments offer the perfect canvas to create a warm and cozy home. We have an extensive portfolio of luxury properties in Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Phoenix, and various other areas.
Many of our apartments feature large windows, offering the perfect canvas to experiment with different curtain treatments without drilling into the walls.
Visit our website to browse our full selection of luxury apartments today.
