Hanging Curtains on Plaster Walls in 6 Quick & Easy Steps!

Curtains are more than just window coverings. They can add style, color, texture, and warmth to any room. They can also create privacy, block out unwanted light, and reduce noise. However, hanging curtains on plaster walls can be a challenge, especially if you have plaster walls. Plaster walls are not as common as drywall, but they are often found in older homes. They have a unique charm and character, but they also pose some difficulties when it comes to installing curtain hardware.

Plaster walls are hard, brittle, and prone to cracking. They also have different types of laths (the wooden strips that support the plaster) that require different methods of attachment. If you want to hang curtains on plaster walls, you need to select the right hardware, tools, and materials, and follow some careful steps to avoid damaging your walls. In this guide, we will show you how to hang curtains on plaster walls in a secure and stable way. We will also provide some tips for troubleshooting common issues and maintaining your curtains and walls.

Understanding Plaster Walls

Before you start hanging curtains on plaster walls, you need to understand what plaster walls are and how they differ from drywall. Plaster walls are made of a mixture of lime, sand, water, and sometimes other additives, that is applied over a lath (a wooden or metal framework) in several layers. The plaster hardens and forms a smooth and durable surface that can be painted or decorated. Plaster walls have some advantages over drywall, such as better insulation, soundproofing, fire resistance, and aesthetic appeal. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as being heavier, more expensive, and more difficult to repair.

One of the main challenges to learn how to hang curtains on plaster walls is that they can crack or crumble easily if you use the wrong hardware or technique. Plaster walls are not designed to hold heavy loads, so you need to use anchors and screws that are suitable for plaster and can distribute the weight evenly. You also need to be careful not to drill or hammer too hard or too deep, as this can cause the plaster to break or fall off. Another challenge is that plaster walls have different types of laths, which affect how you attach the curtain hardware.

There are three main types of laths: wood, metal, and rock. Wood lath is the most common and consists of thin strips of wood that are nailed to the studs (the vertical wooden beams that support the wall). Metal lath is similar to wood lath but made of metal mesh or strips. Rock lath is a type of gypsum board that is attached to the studs with nails or screws. Each type of lath has its own advantages and disadvantages and requires a different method of installation.

The type of lath you have will determine the type of anchors and screws you need to use, as well as the location of the studs. Studs are the best place to attach curtain hardware, as they provide the most support and stability. However, finding studs on plaster walls can be tricky, as they are often hidden behind the thick layer of plaster. You can use a stud finder, a magnet, or a tapping method to locate the studs, but you may need to do some trial and error to confirm their position. You also need to mark the stud locations with a pencil or a tape, so you can align your curtain hardware accordingly.

Gathering the Necessary Tools and Materials

Once you have identified the type of plaster and lath you have, and the location of the studs, you can gather the necessary tools and materials for hanging curtains on plaster walls. Here is a list of the basic tools and materials you will need:

• A drill with a masonry bit (for drilling holes in plaster)
• A hammer (for tapping and driving nails or screws)
• A level (for ensuring your curtain hardware is aligned and leveled)
• A tape measure (for measuring the width and height of your window and wall)
• A pencil or a tape (for marking the stud locations and the hardware positions)
• A ladder or a stool (for reaching the higher parts of the wall)
• A pair of scissors or a utility knife (for cutting the curtains to the desired length)
• A screwdriver (for tightening the screws)
• A vacuum cleaner or a dustpan and brush (for cleaning up the dust and debris)

In addition to the tools, you will also need the following materials:

• Curtain rods (the horizontal bars that hold the curtains)
• Curtain brackets (the metal or plastic pieces that attach the curtain rods to the wall)
• Anchors and screws (the fasteners that secure the curtain brackets to the wall)
• Curtains (the fabric panels that hang from the curtain rods)

When choosing the curtain rods, brackets, anchors, and screws, you need to consider the following factors:

• The weight and size of your curtains: For hanging curtain rods on plaster walls, you need to select curtain rods that can support the weight and width of your curtains, and curtain brackets that can hold the curtain rods firmly. You also need to choose anchors and screws that can handle the load and the thickness of your plaster walls. Generally, the heavier and wider your curtains are, the stronger and larger your hardware needs to be.
• The style and design of your curtains and room: To mastered hanging curtain rods on plaster walls you need to select curtain rods and brackets that match the color, material, and shape of your curtains and complement the overall theme of your room. You can choose from various types of curtain rods, such as single, double, tension, or decorative, and various types of curtain brackets, such as inside mount, outside mount, or ceiling mount. You can also choose from different finishes, such as metal, wood, or plastic, and different shapes, such as round, square, or curved.
• The type of plaster and lath you have: You need to select anchors and screws that are compatible with your plaster and lath type and can penetrate and grip the wall securely. You can choose from various types of anchors and screws, such as plastic, metal, toggle, or molly, and various sizes and lengths, depending on the thickness and density of your plaster and lath. You can also use nails or hooks instead of screws, but they may not be as strong or stable.

Preparing the Plaster Wall

Before you start installing the curtain hardware, you need to prepare the plaster wall for drilling and hanging. Here are some steps you need to follow:

• Assess the condition of the plaster wall: Check for any cracks, holes, or loose plaster that may need to be repaired before hanging curtain rods on plaster walls. You can use a putty knife, a spackle, and a sandpaper to fill and smooth any imperfections on the wall. You can also use a primer and a paint to cover any stains or marks on the wall.
• Clean the plaster wall: Use a damp cloth or a sponge to wipe off any dust, dirt, or grease from the wall. You can also use a mild detergent or a vinegar solution to remove any stubborn stains or residues. Make sure the wall is dry before drilling or hanging anything on it.
• Locate and mark the stud positions: Use a stud finder, a magnet, or a tapping method to find the studs behind the plaster wall. Mark the stud locations with a pencil or a tape, so you can align your curtain hardware accordingly. You can also use a level to ensure the marks are straight and even.

Choosing the Right Hardware

After you have prepared the plaster wall, you need to choose the right hardware for hanging curtains on plaster walls. Here are some tips and guidelines for selecting the curtain rods, brackets, anchors, and screws:

• Choose curtain rods that can support the weight and width of your curtains. You can measure the width of your window and add some extra inches on both sides to determine the length of your curtain rods. You can also measure the height of your window and decide how high or low you want your curtains to hang. You can choose from various types of curtain rods, such as single, double, tension, or decorative, depending on your preference and style.
• Choose curtain brackets that can hold the curtain rods firmly and match the design of your curtains and room. You can measure the diameter of your curtain rods and choose curtain brackets that can fit them snugly. You can also choose the type of mount for your curtain brackets, such as inside mount, outside mount, or ceiling mount, depending on the shape and size of your window and wall. You can choose from various types of curtain brackets, such as metal, wood, or plastic, and various shapes, such as round, square, or curved.
• Choose anchors and screws that are compatible with your plaster and lath type, and can penetrate and grip the wall securely. You can measure the thickness and density of your plaster and lath and choose anchors and screws that can match them. You can also choose the type of anchor and screw for your plaster and lath, such as plastic, metal, toggle, or molly, depending on the strength and stability you need. You can also use nails or hooks instead of screws, but they may not be as strong or stable.

Installation Steps for Hanging Curtains on Plaster Walls

Once you have chosen the right hardware, you can start installing the curtain hardware on the plaster wall. Here are some steps you need to follow:

Step1: Mark the position of the curtain brackets on the wall

Use a tape measure and a pencil to mark the desired height and width of your curtain brackets on the wall. You can use a level to ensure the marks are aligned and leveled. You can also use the stud marks as a reference to align your curtain brackets. Make sure the marks are visible and accurate, as they will guide you were to drill the holes.

Step 2: Drill the holes for the anchors and screws on the wall

Use a drill with a masonry bit to drill the holes for the anchors and screws on the wall. Make sure the holes are slightly smaller than the anchors and screws, so they can fit tightly. You can also use a vacuum cleaner or a dustpan and brush to clean up the dust and debris from the drilling.

Step 3: Insert the anchors and screws into the holes

Use a hammer or a screwdriver to insert the anchors and screws into the holes. Make sure the anchors and screws are flush with the wall and not sticking out. You can also use a level to ensure the anchors and screws are straight and even.

Step 4: Attach the curtain brackets to the wall

Use a screwdriver to attach the curtain brackets to the wall using the anchors and screws. Make sure the curtain brackets are secure and stable and can hold the weight of the curtain rods and curtains. You can also use a level to ensure the curtain brackets are aligned and leveled.

Step 5: Hang the curtain rods on the brackets

Use a ladder or a stool to reach the curtain brackets and hang the curtain rods on plaster walls. Make sure the curtain rods are snug and balanced on the brackets and can slide smoothly. You can also use a level to ensure the curtain rods are horizontal and even.

Step 6: Hang the curtains on the rods

Use a pair of scissors or a utility knife to cut the curtains to the desired length, if needed. You can also hem the curtains or use curtain clips to adjust the length. Then, hang the curtains on the rods using the hooks, rings, or grommets provided. Make sure the curtains are evenly distributed and hang nicely on the rods. You can also use a steamer or an iron to remove any wrinkles or creases from the curtains. Congratulation! you have mastered the process of Hanging Curtains on Plaster Walls.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Hanging curtains on plaster walls can be a rewarding project, but it can also come with some challenges and issues. Here are some common problems you may encounter and how to solve them:

• Crumbling plaster or uneven surfaces:
  • If your plaster wall is old or damaged, it may crumble or crack when you drill or hammer into it. This can cause the anchors and screws to loosen or fall out, and the curtain hardware to become unstable. To prevent this, you can use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the anchor or screw, and drill slowly and gently. You can also use a toggle or a molly anchor, which can expand and grip the wall better. If your plaster wall is uneven or bumpy, it may cause the curtain hardware to be misaligned or unlevelled. To fix this, you can use a shim (a thin piece of wood or metal) to fill the gap between the wall and the bracket, and level the bracket accordingly.
• Damage to plaster walls during installation:
  • If you drill or hammer too hard or too deep into the plaster wall, you may cause damage to the wall, such as cracks, holes, or chips. This can affect the appearance and integrity of the wall and make it harder to repair. To avoid this, you can use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the anchor or screw, and drill slowly and gently. You can also use a nail or a hook instead of a screw, which can cause less damage to the wall. If you do cause damage to the wall, you can use a putty knife, a spackle, and a sandpaper to fill and smooth the damage. You can also use a primer and a paint to cover the damage.
• Curtain rod alignment issues:
  • If your curtain rod is not aligned or levelled, it may cause your curtains to hang unevenly or slide to one side. This can affect the look and function of your curtains and make them less effective. To prevent this, you can use a level to ensure the curtain rod is horizontal and even. You can also use a tape measure to ensure the curtain rod is centered and symmetrical on the window. If your curtain rod is still misaligned or unlevelled, you can adjust the brackets or the rods accordingly, or use a shim to fill the gap.

Maintenance and Care

After you have successfully learned how to hang curtains on plaster walls, you need to maintain and care for them to ensure they last long and look good. Here are some tips for maintaining and caring for your curtains and walls:

• Check and adjust your curtain hardware regularly. Over time, your curtain hardware may loosen or shift due to the weight and movement of the curtains. This can cause the curtain rods to sag or tilt, and the curtain brackets to wobble or detach. To prevent this, you need to check and adjust your curtain hardware regularly and tighten the screws or the anchors if needed. You can also use a level to ensure the curtain hardware is aligned and leveled.
• Clean your curtains and walls periodically. Dust, dirt, and grease can accumulate on your curtains and walls, and make them look dull and dirty. To prevent this, you need to clean your curtains and walls periodically, and remove any stains or marks. You can use a damp cloth or a sponge to wipe off the dust and dirt from the walls. You can also use a mild detergent or a vinegar solution to remove any stubborn stains or residues. For the curtains, you can follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to wash, dry, and iron them. You can also use a steamer or an iron to remove any wrinkles or creases from the curtains.
• Update your curtains without damaging the walls. If you want to change or update your curtains, you can do so without damaging the walls. You can use the same curtain rods and brackets, and simply replace the curtains with new ones. You can also use curtain clips or ties to change the style or length of the curtains. If you want to change or update the curtain rods and brackets, you can use the same holes and anchors, and simply replace the hardware with new ones. You can also use a primer and a paint to cover any marks or holes left by the old hardware.

You can also take a help of this video for better understanding on Hanging Curtains on Plaster Walls made by Expert: Joshua Clement & Filmmaker: Nathanael Rittichier You tube: EMCDevs

Conclusion

Hanging curtains on plaster walls can be a challenging but rewarding project. It can enhance the aesthetic appeal and comfort of your living spaces, and add style, color, texture, and warmth to any room. However, it also requires some careful planning, preparation, and execution, as plaster walls are not as easy to work with as drywall. You need to understand the type and condition of your plaster walls, and choose the right hardware, tools, and materials for hanging curtains on them.

If you’re looking to extend your curtain hanging skills to metal doors, you’ll find helpful insights in our guide on how to hang curtains on a metal door. This comprehensive resource covers the necessary steps and tips for securely and stably installing curtain hardware on metal doors, as well as troubleshooting any issues that may arise. Additionally, it provides guidance on maintaining and caring for your curtains and walls, ensuring they stay clean and updated. By combining the knowledge from both guides, you’ll be well-equipped to confidently and successfully hang curtains, whether on plaster walls or metal doors, and enhance the beauty of your home.

We hope you enjoyed this guide and learned something new and useful. We would love to hear your thoughts and experiences on Hanging Curtains on Plaster Walls. Please feel free to share your comments, questions, or feedback below. You can follow us on Medium for latest story. Thank you for reading and happy decorating!