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What to consider when using a ceiling mount for your curtains

Karina Dollman
  • Karina Dollman
  • Consultant

In short

Ceiling-mounted curtains hang from the ceiling rather than the wall above the window, and they can transform a room. They improve insulation and light control, make windows look taller and wider, show off features like bay or curved windows, and suit floor-to-ceiling windows and patio doors. The main thing to check first is whether your ceiling has the right fixings to take the weight, so it’s worth a chat with your local Russells consultant.

Dark grey living room with white sheer curtains ceiling-mounted beside an upper-window shutter.

Many people default to choosing a wall mounted track for their curtains, but ceiling mounted curtains can create a beautiful effect and they are worth considering if you're shopping for new curtains. They can work especially well in large living areas or dining rooms but can also be a beautiful touch in bedrooms. Here are a few of the benefits of ceiling mounted curtains as well as some things to consider before deciding.

Table of contents

Do ceiling mounted curtains improve insulation and light blocking?

By hanging curtains from the ceiling, they'll minimise the light or any draughts that come from the window. And since a ceiling mount is most often used alongside floor length curtains, they'll be covering a much larger space of the wall, creating an additional layer of insulation to keep things comfortable year round.

Can ceiling mounted curtains make windows look larger?

An often overlooked use of ceiling mounted curtains is smaller windows, especially short but wide windows. Using a ceiling mount in these situations can create the illusion of larger windows, especially if the track is continued past the edges of the windows as this allows the curtain to be pulled fully out of the way.

Open-plan space with grey ceiling-mounted curtains framing glass doors to a brick courtyard.

How do ceiling mounted curtains show off architectural features?

Ceiling mounted curtains can be a great choice for architectural features like bay windows, creating an elegant look where the track can blend in with the ceiling.

Can ceiling mounted curtains span a full wall?

Curtains never have to be restricted to the size of the window, in fact, curtains are most commonly hung to a larger spec than the window they are covering. But with a ceiling mount, you can extend your curtains seamlessly across a full wall. This can be a great way to bring some drama and elegance to a lounge or a cosy, warm feel to a bedroom.

Do ceiling mounted curtains work for curved windows?

Curved windows are a beautiful feature in a home, but they can be challenging when it comes to curtains or blinds. Ceiling mounted curtains can work well for these areas as they can clear obstructions that would prevent a wall mount. However, this greatly depends on the configuration of the bend and the fixing available in the ceiling.

Bedroom with pale grey ceiling-mounted curtains beside an arched window above wall art.

Are ceiling mounted curtains good for floor to ceiling windows or patio doors?

If your home has floor to ceiling windows or large patio doors, a ceiling mounted curtain might be a good choice. The ceiling mount will stay out of the way of functioning doors and as mentioned above, extending the track beyond the windows or doors will allow you to easily swish the curtains out of the way, providing the best views and the easiest functionality. If you’re weighing up the drop, our guide on whether your curtains should be floor length is worth a read.

What should I consider before choosing ceiling mounted curtains?

Although there is plenty to love about ceiling mounted curtains, they aren't right in every situation. Before taking the plunge on a ceiling mounted option, it's important to find out if your ceiling has the appropriate fixings to support the weight of the curtains - especially if you're choosing a heavier fabric option. It's also helpful to consider if you're building or doing any major renovations as additional fixings can be added in.

Overall, we love ceiling mounted curtains, but to be sure they're right for you and your home, book a free in-home consultation with your local Russells consultant.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the benefits of ceiling mounted curtains?

Ceiling mounted curtains improve insulation and light control, make windows look taller and wider, and create an elegant, dramatic look across a full wall. They also suit tricky spots like curved windows, floor-to-ceiling windows and patio doors, where a wall mount can get in the way.

Do ceiling mounted curtains make a room look taller?

Yes — because the curtains hang from the ceiling and usually run floor length, they draw the eye upward and make windows and the whole room feel taller. Extending the track past the window edges also makes short, wide windows look larger.

Can any ceiling support ceiling mounted curtains?

Not always. The ceiling needs the right fixings to support the weight of the curtains, especially with heavier fabrics. It’s worth checking before you commit, and if you’re building or renovating, additional fixings can be added in at that stage.

Are ceiling mounted curtains good for insulation?

They are. Hanging from the ceiling helps minimise light and draughts from the window, and because they typically cover a larger area of wall in floor-length form, they add an extra layer of insulation that keeps the room comfortable year round.

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