Where Should I Attach the Curtain Track?
Kim’s Question
“We’ve recently replaced our windows and want to swap our old curtain pole for a track. The problem is that the top of the window trim (architrave) butts right up to the ceiling, so there’s no wall space above the window. I don’t think the ceiling will work either, as our curtains were made to hang from a pole, so they’d be too short if fixed higher. Should I attach the track to the architrave instead?”
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The Best Place to Attach the Track
Great question — and one a lot of people run into. In this situation, the best solution is to fix the track directly to the wooden trim (architrave) at the top of the window. Line the top edge of the track up with the top of the trim for the neatest finish.
How Far Past the Window?
If you’ve got enough wall space, allow the track to extend about 20cm past the window on each side. This lets your curtains stack back neatly without blocking too much glass.
Dealing with the Extra Gap
Here’s the one catch: extending the track past the window trim means the last bracket on each side may sit 2–3cm away from the wall. That gap makes it tricky to fix securely.
The simple solution is to use spacers. These can be purpose-made plastic spacers, or just a small block of wood with a screw hole drilled through it. Use a slightly longer screw, pass it through the bracket and spacer, then fix into the wall. Once your curtains are up, the spacers will be hidden.
Do You Always Need Spacers?
Not always. If your curtains aren’t particularly heavy, our tracks are strong enough to support themselves even when extending past the trim. I usually recommend testing the track first:
- Fit the track as normal and hang the curtains.
- If it feels solid, no extra work needed.
- If it looks like it needs more support, slide the curtains to the centre, unclip the last couple of brackets on each side, and let the track hang slightly.
- Add the extra brackets with spacers behind, then clip the track back on. Done!
Kim’s Update
After fitting her new bay track, Kim sent this follow-up:
“The curtain track is up and looks great. The curtains are up and they look fantastic. Thank you so much for the track and your help and advice. What a great product and service.”
She was kind enough to share photos too — which show just how neat the finished result looks.
It’s not ideal, as plaster isn’t a solid fixing point. If there’s absolutely no other option, a lightweight curtain may be supported this way, but for strength and durability it’s always better to fix into wood, brick, or ceiling joists.
Not always. If your curtains are light, the track can usually support itself past the window trim. Spacers are only needed if you’re fixing into a wall that sits further back, leaving a small gap behind the end brackets.
Our tracks are strong enough for most lined and full-length curtains. If you’re hanging particularly heavy fabric, just make sure to use all the supplied brackets and consider adding spacers for extra end support.
Need Help With Your Own Window?
If you’re in the same position — no wall space above your window, and wondering where to attach your curtain track — don’t worry. With the right track and a simple spacer if needed, you’ll get a strong, neat installation that works perfectly with your existing curtains.