Guide Renter Friendly Curtain Rods and Apartment Privacy
Tension Curtain Rods
If the window frame is deep enough, you can use tension curtain rods. These work just like a shower rod. You fit both ends into the window frame, then extend the rod until it is snug and holds itself up with tension. Lock the rod into place and then hang your curtains. If they are loop-style curtains, you can extend the rod with the curtains already attached.
Because the curtain rod is mounted inside the window frame, choose short curtains that reach exactly to the bottom of the window. Lightweight curtains are best, but a well-designed tension rod and deep window frame can sometimes support heavier curtains or even layered curtains.
Mounting Tape and Curtain Rods
Mounting tape is a wonder for renters of all kinds. It can allow you to support several pounds of pressure without damaging the walls. This includes curtain rod mounting hooks placed above and on either side of a window. Command Strips are the most reliably non-damaging mounting tape. Simply pull the tab downward slowly when you're done, and the tape will stretch and cleanly remove itself from the wall. Each strip is rated for a specific amount of weight, such as 1 lbs, 3 lbs, 5 lbs, and 9 lbs.
With mounting tape and the right kind of curtain rod hooks (It's best to buy them together), you can mount traditional-looking curtain rods and hang longer curtains. This can allow you to enjoy elegant apartment curtains, hang heavier curtains to block more light, and layer curtains safely. Mounting tape can also be used to safely hang framed art, wall hooks, and more.
Note: Mounting tape interacts with the wall paint. Be sure to test on a small area before implementing a sticky solution house-wide.
Static Cling Window Film
In some cases, the desire for privacy includes the window glass. If you like the effects of window film, such as film-frosted windows or color film for a stained-glass effect, there is an apartment-friendly option. Window film that uses static cling instead of adhesive is more apartment-friendly than the traditional types of film. This also makes it easier to correct ripples and bubbles that appear when you apply the film. Window film rarely goes on perfectly the first time, and static cling film can be fixed without making a mess or damaging the windows.
Be sure to test before you lay a large sheet, just in case.
Fit-Around Curtains
One very common solution for apartment dwellers is to fit light curtain material (often a sheet or pillowcase) around the miniblinds, using the existing installation as the mounting point for an extra layer of fabric. If carefully arranged, it can look attractive. If tucked all the way around closed blinds, it can also effectively block more light than plain white blinds do on their own. This solution is often seen in bedrooms where light control is the most important feature. With mounting tape, you can even hang more decorative lightweight curtains over your fit-over work.
Just be sure the miniblinds are securely installed before adding any weight to them.
Apartments with Attractive Blinds
Another option is to choose an apartment that already comes with window treatments that suit your style and needs. Wood style blinds, for example, are more attractive than traditional white miniblinds and the slats are opaque, so they block more light when closed while giving you the option to adjust the slat angle or the height of the blinds.
The Right Window Treatments for Your Texas Apartment
If you have questions about what is allowed, be sure to ask your property manager, as rules can differ from one community to the next. If you're looking for an apartment in Longview, TX, you know that sunshine is a major part of the Texas experience. The right window treatments can make a big difference to your home aesthetic, privacy, and light control. At Summer Green Apartments, our homes feature wood-style blinds that provide a more attractive aesthetic and more dynamic light control in each apartment. Contact us today to inquire about availability or ask about our policies regarding apartment curtains.