To many people, curtain poles are simply installed in the home to serve a purpose. However this shouldn’t be the case as, when utilised effectively, they can add a lot to the interior design element of a room. As a result, if you’re looking for both practicality and visual effect, you will want to purchase some quality hardware which will require proper maintenance. Here is a short guide to making sure your curtain poles stay in optimum condition.
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Children
The chances are that if they can reach something, children can find a way to play with it. Curtains are no exception to this and are particularly prone to damage if they are tugged too hard. While children may be trying to help out by opening and drawing the curtains, their technique may be incorrect and as a result they may pull them too strenuously or drag them. In extreme circumstances, this could inflict wear and tear over the poles which, in time, could lead them to become worn down and broken.
Opening
It’s not just children who are incapable of opening curtains correctly, and it’s important to practice what you preach in order to ensure that they are operated correctly. The best technique is to try and get a good grip of the curtain as high up as possible as this will allow it to move smoothly and prevent dragging or excessive pulling.
Mounting
While it should go without saying, it’s amazing just how many people cut corners when it comes to mounting curtain poles and regularly use inferior equipment and methods to do the job. It’s a given that curtain poles that aren’t mounted well are likely to collapse and rip free from the wall, causing damage to themselves, the wall, and anyone nearby. Using a wall stud whilst carrying out the installation should help, or at the very least use some form of anchor-like tool to keep the screws positioned.
Sun Damage
This is quite a niche problem as many people hang the curtains above the window, meaning the pole is protected. However for those who hang them in front of the glass, they are exposing them to the rays of the sun. It tends to be a visual problem, as over time the colours can begin to fade if exposed to excessive sunlight. However in the most extreme circumstances, the strength of the pole can come into question too if decayed so much by the rays.
General Cleanliness
Just like many unmaintained surfaces in the home, curtain poles are known to pick up dust, dirt and accumulate grime easily if not looked after. Dust and dirt isn’t too hard to shift, however when it becomes grime then it is a totally different proposition. The easiest way to keep on top of this is by simply running over it every so often with a damp cloth which will not only keep them clean and presentable, but help maintain them in terms of quality too.
[styled_box title=”Meet The Author” color=”grey”]
Jack Oldham is a journalism graduate blogging on behalf of Poles Direct, who specialise in a number of window treatments and accessories.
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