Tension rods are popular among homeowners for their versatility. It is easy and convenient to install and use. Also, you can use it to divide different spaces and hang lightweight curtains.
You can use the tension rod to utilize spaces in kitchen cabinets, organize your closet, display artwork, tiding up your shower and bathroom space, and whatnot!
However, you need to know how to use a tension rod and its installation process properly. Or else you will fail to use the tension rod.
You need to measure the distance between the two walls where you want to mount the tension rod. Also, you need to clean the surface where you want to install it. It is essential because a clean surface helps the rod use its tension better to stay in place.
How to Use a Tension Rod: 3 Easy Steps
Tension rods are straightforward to use. It uses tensile strength to stay on a flat surface. Plus, you won’t need any fasteners, screws, or nuts to install the tension rod. Therefore, you can easily install and remove it whenever required.
Step 1: Measure the distance between the walls
You need to accomplish the process even before you purchase the tension rod. Yes, it is vital since you need a longer tension rod than the distance between the two surfaces. So, find two hard surfaces first. Also, it needs to be even and smooth. Or else you will fail to mount the tension rod on an uneven surface.
Once you have selected the right surface to mount the tension rod, start measuring. You may mount the tension rod on the following surfaces.
- Closet walls
- Window frames
- Cabinet walls
- Shower or bathroom space
You will need a measuring tape to measure the distance between the two walls correctly. Also, you should measure the distance multiple times for accuracy. Finally, note it down and go to the hardware store to buy the tension rod.
Step 2: Purchase the right tension rod
You must get a tension rod longer than the distance between the installation surfaces. For instance, you will need a 7ft long tension rod if the distance between the two walls is 5ft. It is crucial since expanding a smaller tension rod isn’t a good idea.
As you keep expanding the tension rod, it will start losing strength. So, it will become weaker. Also, the rod will fail to hold heavier weights when you expand it. Yes, the tension rod’s weight and weight holding capacity work on alternate sides.
Thus, you should choose a long-tension rod instead of purchasing a small rod and expanding it to reduce its strength. Plus, you must check the weight rating of the tension rod. You should find it on the product label of the tension rod.
If you want the tension rod to hang curtains, you should choose a tension rod with a heavier weight rating. Lightweight tension rods will be suitable for use inside the closet to divide it into multiple spaces and utilize it better.
Step 3: Mount the tension rod
When you have purchased the right-sized tension rod, it’s time to mount it. Before you mount it, ensure the surface is clean. Now, carefully put the tension rod on one side of the wall and hold it tightly. The rod’s tensile strength will come into effect to place tightly on the surface.
After that, adjust the tension rod length to mount it on the other side. If you want to use it for curtains, slide in the curtains. Then, tightly hold the tension rod on the other side of the wall. It will help the rod get stuck on the wall.
If you need to unlock the rod, hold it firmly to prevent it from expanding. Otherwise, it will expand to damage the wall. Also, you will need to compress the rod to unlock and remove it correctly.
Different Usages of the Tension Rod
We have discussed the ways to install and use a tension rod appropriately. But do you know how versatile a tension rod is? Let’s see some of its brilliant uses to organize your closet, bathroom, kitchen, and other spaces.
Organize your closet:
You can use the tension rod to arrange your clothes in the wardrobe. You can pair it with curtain clips and use multiple tension rods to utilize the closet space perfectly. It will allow you to adjust the rods whenever you need them.
Tide up the shower space:
People always will find their shower space limited. Also, most times it will fail to accommodate all your family’s clothes. You can easily increase the storage options in the shower with a tension rod. You can use the tension rod to store your clothes and body brushes. Also, it enhances the aesthetics of the shower space.
Use in the kitchen sink cabinet:
Maybe you have space limitations in your kitchen. At that moment, you may install the tension in the kitchen cabinet to increase storage space. You can hang scrubbers, spray bottles, and other items in it. Alternatively, you can mount the rod around the cupboard.
The added space means you can keep more items in the cabinet or cupboard.
Display your artwork:
With a little creativity and a DIY project, you can use the tension rod to display your and your kid’s artwork. When you have mounted the tension rod, hang multiple curtain clips on it. Thus, it will turn into a nice display gallery.
You can hang your family photo and artworks in the curtain clips. Also, encourage your kids to draw their favorite image and hang it in the gallery. It will inspire their artistic soul greatly.
Jewelry organizer:
You may use the tension rod to create a jewelry organizer. You must clip a few shower rings on the tension rod first. Afterward, you can hang your bracelets, necklaces, and other items into the shower rings. It will look good when organized accurately.
Conclusion
A tension rod can be as versatile as you think when used rightly. You may use it to increase storage space in the kitchen, dining, shower, bathroom, closet, and everywhere you want. Also, you may create a window awning or hang wallpapers.
The installation process of the tension rod is easy also. You will, however, need to purchase a longer tension rod than you need in reality. Finally, ensure its strength and weight rating for proper utilization.
This is Autem Decker. Main Author of ‘TheHomeDigs‘. You may not find her on the list of top 10 contemporary Canadian interior designers, but everyone who knows her says she was born to be an interior designer.
She makes her plan in her head and draws them in her years-old diary with a note in the corner. The way she plays with color and shape amazes us.
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