Curtain Rod Length Calculator
Enter your window width to get the rod length, the adjustable rod size to buy, and where to put the brackets.
Curtain rod size chart
Rod lengths for common window widths, with 8 inches and 12 inches past each side, and the standard adjustable rod that covers the shorter length.
| Window width | Rod (+8 in each side) | Rod (+12 in each side) | Adjustable rod |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 in | 40 in | 48 in | 28–48 in |
| 30 in | 46 in | 54 in | 28–48 in |
| 36 in | 52 in | 60 in | 36–72 in |
| 42 in | 58 in | 66 in | 36–72 in |
| 48 in | 64 in | 72 in | 36–72 in |
| 54 in | 70 in | 78 in | 36–72 in |
| 60 in | 76 in | 84 in | 48–84 in |
| 66 in | 82 in | 90 in | 48–84 in |
| 72 in | 88 in | 96 in | 66–120 in |
| 84 in | 100 in | 108 in | 66–120 in |
| 96 in | 112 in | 120 in | 66–120 in |
| 108 in | 124 in | 132 in | 120–170 in |
| 120 in | 136 in | 144 in | 120–170 in |
How to measure for a curtain rod
- Measure the window width from the outside edge of the trim on one side to the outside edge on the other.
- Add the extension on both sides: 6 to 12 inches (8 to 12 for full curtains) lets open curtains stack beside the window instead of blocking light. Use at least 4 inches, and more for thick or full curtains.
- Choose the height: 4 to 6 inches above the frame, or about two-thirds of the way to the ceiling for a taller look.
- Mark the bracket positions with a pencil and a level, then check that the rod's finials will clear walls and corners.
Inside mount? If the rod goes inside the window frame, measure the opening from side to side at the top and buy a tension or inside-mount rod of exactly that length. Curtains on an inside mount always cover part of the glass when open.
Rod lengths don't include the finials, the decorative ends, which add 2 to 6 inches in total. For the full curtain size, including length, width and how many panels to buy, use the curtain size calculator. For doors, use the door curtain calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a curtain rod be?
Take the window width (outside edge of the trim to outside edge) and add 8 to 12 inches on each side. For a 48-inch window, that is a 64- to 72-inch rod, not counting the finials. The extra lets the curtains stack beside the window instead of covering the glass.
What length rod for a 60-inch window?
A 76- to 84-inch rod: 60 inches plus 8 to 12 inches each side. An adjustable 66–120 inch rod covers it, as does a 48–84 inch rod at its longer end.
What size curtain rod for a 72-inch window?
About 88 to 96 inches. Most people buy an adjustable 66–120 inch rod and set it to that length.
Do I need a center bracket?
Most rods over about 60 inches need a center support so they don't sag in the middle, and very long or heavy runs need a support every 4 to 5 feet. Check the rod's instructions: heavier curtains need more support.
How high should a curtain rod be?
Usually 4 to 6 inches above the window frame. For a taller look, many designers hang it about two-thirds of the way from the top of the window to the ceiling, or just below crown molding; buy curtains long enough to reach the floor from there.