Downsides To Wooden Curtain Rods You Probably Haven't Considered

Curtains are one of the most common window treatment types. They add function and style — but they must be paired with the right curtain rods. Wooden curtain rods bring a natural, organic, upscale look, and with so many wood types and stain colors to choose from, it's often easy to find ones that match your room's decor. Furthermore, the solid construction also makes wooden curtains ideal for heavy drapes. But before you assume wood is the way to go, keep in mind that the lack durability in damp areas, higher price, and specific look of wood can make the material less suitable for specific curtain-hanging needs.

To start, wooden curtain rods don't hold up well in damp areas. The moisture can soak into the wood, causing it to swell. If the humidity levels drop, the moisture then gets drawn out of the wood, causing it to shrink. This often results in cracking, distortion, and other damage that leaves it looking old and worn. It could also compromise the strength of the curtain rod.

You may also pay more for wood curtain rods than you would for metal types. Prices vary depending on the style you choose, but wood tends to be more expensive than metal. Finally, you may find that the wood style doesn't fit the aesthetics of the room in all situations. Wooden curtain rods tend to work well with traditional decor and may not work in a glamorous or extra-modern home. If you already have lots of wood features in the room, adding another wooden element could look boring.

In light of these downsides, there are some key things to consider before choosing wooden curtain rods. Start by considering the environment. Wood isn't the best option in high-humidity areas such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, and basements. Some homes have high humidity levels in all rooms. This could be the case if you notice condensation on your windows, which happens when the air outside is cold and the air inside is warm with lots of moisture in it. The excess moisture can damage surfaces around the window, including window frames, walls, and your wood curtain rods, so skip them in these scenarios.

The room's decor is also a factor to consider. Does the warm, traditional look of wood fit with the style of the space? If the room already has lots of wooden features, you may want to choose metal to create more contrast. Likewise, if the room needs a more sleek, modern look than wood can provide, metal curtain rods may also be a better choice.

The size of your window and the weight of your curtains can also impact the decision. Larger windows and heavier window coverings need more strength from the rod. For example, if curtains are the window covering idea you choose to add privacy to your sliding doors, you'll need a sturdy curtain rod to hold the long, wide curtains. Wood offers that strength and stability, but it's important to anchor the rod carefully to keep it in place due to its weight. Also ensure the rod is well-maintained to keep it from getting damaged.