Do It Yourself or Not: Install drapery hardware
Years ago drapery hardware was rarely seen and certainly not a design feature of a window treatment. Today the hardware hanging a window dressing can be a big part of the design scheme and very visible. The hardware and fabric of the drapery work together to achieve the look you want.
For a primer on hardware styles take a look at www.kirsch.com, a manufacturer’s website, to get an idea of your choices. In their Resource Center you’ll find advice and downloadable PDF files.
Whether you choose a basic curtain rod or a more versatile traverse rod designed for heavy fabrics, you’ll find hardware in metal, wood and painted finishes. Stylish decorative poles, ring slides, finials and medallions let you create a custom look.
A handyman will install a basic traverse rod designed for light- to medium-weight draperies up to 180 inches wide, and charge $254, which includes the rod and the labor to hang it. It does not include the drapery. If you’re a handy homeowner or a wannabe, you can buy and install the rod for $120 saving 53%. That’s assuming you have basic carpentry tools such as a measuring tape, a stud finder, a screwdriver, an electric drill and a carpenter’s level. You’ll also need a ladder.
The installation is straightforward and involves carefully measuring the window for the placement of the brackets and center mount, which are fastened on the wall. Then the rods are secured and the draperies are hung on the hardware.
Pro Cost: $254 — DIY Cost:$120 — Pro time: 2.0
DIY Time: 2.5 — DIY Savings: $134 — Percent Saved: 53%
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To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.
©2024 Gene and Katie Hamilton. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
