What Are Bay Window Curtain Rods?

Bay window curtain rods are curtain rods designed to fit the three dimensional shape of bay windows allowing you to use three panels of curtains.  In the past, many people found that using three separate curtain rods to cover their bay window left unnecessary gaps at the angles of the windows.  This left the space vulnerable to the eyes of neighbors or intruders compromising the privacy of the room.  It is now quite easy to find bay window curtain rods which run the entire length of the window seamlessly through 3, 4, or even 5 angles depending on the construction of the window.

Telescoping Bay Window Curtain Rods

In order to properly fit the bay window, bay window curtain rods telescope in as many directions as there are angles in the window.  For example, a 3 angle bay window would telescope in three directions with a total of 4 mounting points.  This allows bay window curtain rods to be universal for any window.  Installing the curtain rod is the same as a traditional window with the exception that you must fasten and level 4 mounting points as opposed to only 2.

The disadvantage of bay window curtain rods is that the styles are extremely limited.  Unlike straight rods which come in a variety of colors, materials, thickness, mounting hardware and even decorative end knobs, bay window curtain rods have very little personalization.  They are mostly single, half inch, telescoping rods available in two or three colors.  Use your creativity to make up for the limited rod styles with custom valances or curtain styles.

Swivel Socket Bay Window Curtain Rods

The only way to use customized curtain rods on your bay window is to use a piece of hardware called swivel sockets, or bay window joiners.  The concept of both is the same.  The idea is that you can connect three regular curtain rods of up to 1 inch thickness together to make a custom bay window curtain rod.  This type of hardware is great if you already have curtain rods lying around the house, or if you are trying to match your bay window curtain rods with the rest of the house.  However there are two limitations:

• The joint of swivel sockets or bay window joiners will be much weaker than a bay window curtain rod made with bends from the factory.  This may not be a problem, but if you’re using heavy curtains you may need to double up the mounting hardware at the joints.  For example, one bracket on each side of the rod.
• You will find it difficult to match a curtain rod to the swivel socket which may be unsightly if visible.  Although your options are limited with a product like the Umbra Bayview Bay Window Curtain Rod, at least it will be uniform.

It is very possible to enjoy all of the benefits of a large bay window without compromising your decor or privacy.  Bay window curtain rods have made it easy to seamlessly transition from one pane to the next.