How to Install a Shower Curtain

One of the easiest and most economical ways to redecorate a bathroom is by installing a new shower curtain. As shower enclosures go, shower curtains are generally the most affordable and easy to change. Shower curtains come in many different materials, patterns and styles, and they can completely transform the look and feel of a bathroom. The steps required to install a shower curtain vary depending on type and style, but installation is usually quick and easy.

When shopping for a shower curtain, you have to consider your needs. Shower curtains provide both form and function. In terms of function, plastic and vinyl shower curtains are the most waterproof. However, in terms of form, cotton, linen or even silk shower curtains often look more decorative. To get the best of both worlds, many people choose to use both a waterproof shower liner and a more attractive fabric shower curtain. While the shower curtain can be chosen based primarily on the design of the bathroom, the shower liner serves a more practical utility.

Even though the average shower liner is inexpensive, quality varies. The least expensive shower liners will work adequately, but they may not last very long. Shower liners are exposed to soap and water everyday, and good quality shower curtains will be easier to maintain than cheaper ones. Look for a heavy duty shower liner for maximum maintainability. To prevent the build up of mildew, some shower liners are also treated with fungicide. These liners are easy to wipe clean and will last you a long time.

Once you have chosen your shower curtain and liner, the next step is to choose a shower rod. Shower rods come in many different styles and finishes. Rest assured there is one to fit any bathroom. The length of most shower rods can be easily adjusted to fit almost any shower. Exact measurements are not generally needed in order to achieve a snug fit.

When it comes to materials, most shower rods are either plastic or metal. Plastic rods are the least expensive but are not as sturdy as metal rods. However, metal rods should be coated to prevent rusting. Crescent shower rods can add width to you shower area and help prevent the dreaded shower curtain “blow in.” Additionally, curved shower rods are available for showers that are not surrounded on three sides by walls.

The final piece of the shower curtain ensemble is the shower curtain ring. There are tons of different styles of shower curtain rings. Rings come in both metal and plastic, and should be coordinated to the style of your shower curtain. Heavier fabrics like cotton and terry cloth will require rings that are more substantial in size. Measure the size of the grommets on the top of the curtain before you buy rings in order to make sure they will fit.

If you are going to use both a shower curtain and a shower liner, you have two options for installation. You can either use one rod and one set of rings, or you can use two rods and two sets of rings. If you used one rod, line up the liner and the curtain so they are facing one another and thread one ring through each of the corresponding grommets on the both the liner and the curtain. The curtain liner will move as one unit. If you use two rods, you need one set of rings for each, and the liner and the curtain will move independently.

Page 2: How to Install a Shower Curtain Rod

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