Curtain rod installation cost: What affects your final bill

Curtains do more than dress up your windows for that perfect Insta-worthy aesthetic. They're actually one of the most highly recommended coverings, as they’re proven to help make your home more energy efficient. Well-fitted curtains trap warmth in winter and block heat in summer, helping lower energy bills while elevating your décor.

Fortunately, installing curtain rods isn’t always a big job. For instance, many lighter styles can be put up in an afternoon. But for heavier curtain types or high windows, hiring a pro can give you peace of mind and a polished finish. In Australia, you’re likely to pay $70 to $200 for curtain installation. In this guide, we’ll examine what else can impact the cost and which rod types to consider for your project.

Curtain rod installation price list 

Professionals who fit curtains and blinds can help you set up the correct window treatments for different rooms in your home. Whether you need to install your Roman blinds or simple hanging curtains, it's good to have a professional do it. 

Person taking down a white curtain from a wooden curtain rod (Source: iStock)    

Factors affecting curtain rod installation cost

Size and number of windows

The cost of installing curtain rods depends on their size. The bigger your window space, the more you will be spending. Households with second and third-storey windows can expect to pay more for installation. Most traders have set prices for installing curtain rods for one to two windows but charge additional fees if you go any higher.

 Materials

The rod and curtain you choose to install will affect your budget. Tension rods come at the lowest price. If you want to pay less for curtains, avoid expensive materials like silk. It's possible to find affordable but high-quality products for your home.

Types of curtain rods

Selecting the correct type of rod will make a difference. With the many styles available, you can find a suitable one for every curtain in your home. Curtain rods usually come with the rings, carriers, loops, or brackets needed to attach them to your wall.

 Swing-arm

Swing-arm rods are for L-shaped curtains, and they attach to just one wall on its side and act as hinges. The rods swing out to allow you to open curtains easily. Swing-arm rods are standard for narrow window openings.

 Continental

If you want to hang rod pocket curtains or valances, continental curtain rods are perfect. These have enamel-coated metal hidden underneath the curtain headers. They come in a range of widths to accommodate various pocket depths.

 Tension

Tension rods are the easiest to install. A tension rod has a twisting mechanism that creates pressure between the rod's end and the wall. Tension rods fit most windows since they're also adjustable.

Traverse

Traverse curtain rods are ideal for windows that cover large openings. They are good for hanging pleated curtains or sheers with drapery pins. Traverse rods have metal carriers for hooks.

Person installing a sheer, patterned curtain onto a ceiling-mounted curtain track (Source: iStock)Breakdown of costs 

When hiring a professional to install a curtain rod, you pay for more than the rod itself. You can allocate your budget for the following things:

• Project duration: The duration of work, number of windows, and level of expertise of your trader will dictate the labour cost of installing curtain rods.
• Materials: When you purchase a curtain rod, it should come with all of its attachments, such as its decorative finishes and mounting tools. You can ask your handyman to buy them as part of the overall fee. 

Get your curtain rod installed today

Installing curtain rods might sound like a quick DIY task, but precise measuring, drilling, and levelling take time and the right tools. Hiring a professional curtain rod installer lets you avoid the hassle, saving your weekend for things you actually enjoy. You can even bundle other services, like curtain dry cleaning or window cleaning, to refresh your space in one go.

Ready to tick this job off your list? Post a task on Airtasker today to find trusted local pros. Soon you’ll be enjoying beautifully hung curtains and a brighter, more efficient home.