Windows
Curtain Tracks for Small Windows
Avoid overpowering a small window while improving light control and appearance.
Illustrative design reference. Image: Image source: Silent Gliss
Quick answer
Small windows often benefit from a track that extends beyond the opening, allowing curtains to stack clear and making the window appear wider.
Visual planning
Start with the shape of your window.
A continuous run across the opening. Plan space at each end for the curtains to stack clear of the glass.
Illustrative top view. Not a scale drawing or a fitting specification.
SECTION 01
Proportion
Proportion should be considered as part of the complete installation rather than in isolation.
The correct choice depends on the window, curtain weight, available fixing surface and how the curtains need to operate each day.
SECTION 02
Side overlap
Side overlap should be considered as part of the complete installation rather than in isolation.
The correct choice depends on the window, curtain weight, available fixing surface and how the curtains need to operate each day.
- Check the fixing surface before ordering.
- Allow enough room for the curtains to move freely.
- Match the track and gliders to the curtain weight.
- Plan the finished appearance as well as the practical operation.
SECTION 03
Curtain fullness
Curtain fullness should be considered as part of the complete installation rather than in isolation.
The correct choice depends on the window, curtain weight, available fixing surface and how the curtains need to operate each day.
SECTION 04
Wall space
Wall space should be considered as part of the complete installation rather than in isolation.
The correct choice depends on the window, curtain weight, available fixing surface and how the curtains need to operate each day.
- Check the fixing surface before ordering.
- Allow enough room for the curtains to move freely.
- Match the track and gliders to the curtain weight.
- Plan the finished appearance as well as the practical operation.
SECTION 05
Short tracks
Short tracks should be considered as part of the complete installation rather than in isolation.
The correct choice depends on the window, curtain weight, available fixing surface and how the curtains need to operate each day.
TrackFit installer note
A reliable installation comes from matching the track, brackets, fixings and curtain load as one complete system.
Professional installation
Need your curtain track fitted properly?
Send us your postcode, measurements and photos. We can assess the track type, fixing surface and access before providing a quotation.
Questions answered
Frequently asked questions
Should tracks be wider than small windows?
Should tracks be wider than small windows depends on the track system, curtain weight and fixing conditions. Check the manufacturer's guidance and assess the full installation rather than one component alone.
Can full-length curtains suit a small window?
Can full-length curtains suit a small window depends on the track system, curtain weight and fixing conditions. Check the manufacturer's guidance and assess the full installation rather than one component alone.
Are poles better for small windows?
Are poles better for small windows depends on the track system, curtain weight and fixing conditions. Check the manufacturer's guidance and assess the full installation rather than one component alone.
How do I reduce light gaps?
How do I reduce light gaps depends on the track system, curtain weight and fixing conditions. Check the manufacturer's guidance and assess the full installation rather than one component alone.
Keep reading
Related curtain track guides
9 min readWindow types
Curtain Tracks for Bay Windows
Choose, measure and position a track for angled, curved and multi-sided bay windows.
7 min readWindow types
Curtain Tracks for Bifold Doors
Plan a long, clear-running track for bifold doors without obstructing handles or the opening mechanism.
8 min readWindows
Curtain Tracks for Sliding Doors
Choose a track that clears handles, covers the opening and leaves enough stack-back.
9 min readChoosing a track
What Type of Curtain Track Do I Need?
A practical guide to choosing the right curtain track for your window, curtain weight, heading style and fixing surface.