We’re sure, like many homeowners, the first thing you think of when it comes to curtain fittings is a curtain pole. These poles are probably the most traditional form of curtain mounting and work by feeding a series of loops through a pole which is mounted to the wall above the window. There are, of course, some benefits to a curtain pole system. They’re affordable and easy to maintain. However, in recent years, curtain tracks have become more and more popular and after looking at the benefits there's no guessing why. So, what are curtain tracks and how do they work? 

What are curtain tracks?

In essence curtain tracks work using a small plastic track which is fixed to the upper frame of the window. These tracks can at times be hidden or on display depending on the type of track you have installed and the budget you’ve set aside for the project. These then have a series of tracking gliders which lay in the main system. The gliders effortlessly move from side to side using minimal force or application.

Tracking methods

There are a variety of ways in which a curtain hung in tracks can be pulled open or closed. For example, there is the more traditional and inexpensive manual option where you simply pull the curtain. This has many benefits such as ease of use and inexpensive fitting costs.

Another method of application is the string-based pulley system. These work in a very similar style to household blinds and can be pulled open or closed using a string on either side of the window. Of course, this option is practical, easy to use, and fairly cheap to install. However, a corded system is a touch more expensive than the standard manual tracks and will take a bit more time to install.

The final application method for tracked curtains is a motorised tracking system. This method is by far the most expensive and the most time-consuming to install as the motorised technology is more intricate and difficult to get going. However, once a motorised system is up and running they are easily the most convenient of the three options.

Types of tracks

As you might well expect with a well-designed and popular household appliance there are many different forms of curtain tracks which can be applied to your own home. With this vast choice, it is important to consider all of the options for your own home as many of these tacks and rails come with specific benefits and drawbacks. So, what are the different types of tracks available?

Single tracks

Single-track rails have one very specific purpose. They are almost always used for one single curtain as the rail has less structural integrity than some of the other rails on the market. For this reason, they are often found on smaller windows rather than larger double doors or floor-to-ceiling windows.

Double track

These rails have two tracks running parallel to one another and are used to add two layers to the curtain. This can be for multiple reasons however the main purpose is to produce a higher degree of privacy. Many homeowners also choose to add a black-out curtain to one of these layers which will help to block out most of the daylight in a room. This feature can be particularly useful in a bedroom or living room.

Triple track

Much like double-track curtains, triple tracks are mainly used to increase the privacy of a home. Though unlike the double track option the upgraded version can produce an almost total blackout effect. What's more, a triple-layered curtain can drastically improve noise reduction in your home. So, your bedroom or living room can be a quiet and tranquil space.

Long-length track

As the name would suggest these curtain tracks are designed for the longer and larger windows in the home. Often with larger windows, conventional curtain rails don’t quite do the job as the number of metal hoops makes the curtain fairly difficult to pull open or closed. With curtain rails, however, the smooth gliding tracks don’t suffer from the same issues that hoops do and the curtain can easily be pulled closed.

S-fold tracks

S-fold tracks are slightly different again from the other options in this list. Their primary use is to create the sleek waving pattern that is so common and popular with high-grade curtains. This pattern doesn’t only create a pleasing design. It also helps block the light from outside and creates an extra feeling of comfort and privacy. The real beauty of using rail tracks for your s-line design is they’re so easy to use. The smooth running of the tracks makes the application of your new curtains easier than ever before.

Flexible curtain tracks

As the world of home design moves on into the 21st century we are beginning to see more and more interesting design interpretations. One of these striking modern additions is the curved wall and window. Many homes are seeking inspiration from the famous art-deco and modernism movements to style and create their homes in this cutting-edge fashion.

Of course, these new curved windows still need curtains to give the homeowner that desired sense of security and privacy. With flexible curtain tracks, these can be bent and moulded into the shape of the wall and then applied to the frame of the window.

Why choose Rail tracks?

So, no matter what your home or your curtain needs there is certainly a rail and track option that will suit you but what are the benefits of this system?

Versatility

As we’re sure you’re aware from reading the previous list, rail tracks are extremely versatile and can be used on just about any window and have just about any variety of curtains fitted to them. Therefore, you can have rail tracks fitted throughout your home for multiple different curtains and uses. This is partially useful if you think you might want to change the use of any of your rooms in the future. As you can simply remove your current curtains from the rail and replace them with the new desired ones.

The curtains are also incredibly versatile when it comes to different windows they can be applied to. In fact, a track can be fitted to just about any window type. From large floor-to-ceiling windows to curved bay windows a rail track can be fitted to them all.

Strength

Aside from rail tracks having brilliant versatility they’re also incredibly strong. The main rail is supported by a series of metal brackets which, using wall plugs and screws, are fastened to the main wall of the building. Not only does this make the rail incredibly strong but it also safeguards the system for years to come.

Having a curtain rail that can both stand the test of time and keep its structural integrity during day-to-day use is incredibly important. We’re sure that you use your curtains multiple times each day and that steady daily use can really damage some rail systems if they’re not built with quality. However, with rail curtains, you can rest assured that the systems are built with care and precision.

Easy of use

It goes without saying really that one of the best things about a rail track curtain system is the superior ease of use. The curtain glides across the smooth rail system with incredible ease meaning you can seamlessly pull your curtains closed after a hard day's work. It’s these small differences in your home that really make a difference to your everyday quality of life.

How to measure a window

Before you get your trusted tape measure out you’ll need to decide where your rail track is going to be placed. Usually, this is just above the window however you may want the track slightly higher or in a different position.

After you’ve decided where the track is going to be you’ll have to measure the exact width of your window from one side to the other and then add 15 to 25 cm to this length on either side. So, 30 to 50 cm overall. This is so the curtain fully blocks out the light when drawn.

How to install a curtain track

First things first you should measure where the curtain brackets are going to be placed and then fit the brackets precisely and level. Then after the brackets have been applied to the wall you can then mark these on the track and fit the track to the brackets. The track should simply click into these brackets so it’s a quick and easy process. Then all that’s left for you to do is fit your new curtains to the track and enjoy your new rail track system!

If a track system for your new curtains sounds like something you would be interested in, our friendly staff can talk you through the entire process. Contact us today to find out more!