Measuring
How Far Should a Curtain Track Extend Past the Window?
Work out the right side overlap for light control, stack-back and balanced appearance.
Illustrative design reference. Image: Bespoke Curtains, Shutters & Blinds
Quick answer
A curtain track should normally extend beyond both sides of the window so the curtains can cover the opening fully and stack away from the glass. The correct allowance depends on curtain fullness, wall space and the amount of light control required.
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
Why side overlap matters
Why side overlap matters 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
Calculating stack-back
Calculating stack-back 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
Small rooms and restricted walls
Small rooms and restricted walls 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
Blackout requirements
Blackout requirements 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
Balancing both sides
Balancing both sides 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
Is 15 cm enough on each side?
Is 15 cm enough on each side 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.
Should both sides be equal?
Should both sides be equal 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.
What if one side meets a wall?
What if one side meets a wall 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.
Does wave heading need more stack-back?
Does wave heading need more stack-back 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
8 min readMeasuring & planning
How to Measure for a Curtain Track
Measure track width, overlap, projection and stack-back before ordering or arranging installation.
6 min readMeasuring & planning
How Much Does Curtain Track Installation Cost?
Understand the main factors that affect professional curtain track fitting costs.
8 min readMeasuring
How Far From the Wall Should a Curtain Track Be?
Calculate projection so curtains clear handles, blinds, radiators and deep sills.
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.