If you can’t find a stud or nail board behind your wall then you’ll need to install a hollow-wall anchor such as a toggle bolt or hollow-wall insert. These can be found at any hardware store and are not expensive.

Installing Wall Anchors

What you’ll need

• Wall anchors
• Drill
• Multi use screws
• Screwdriver
• Pencil

Instructions

1. Choose your wall anchor from the hardware store.
2. Mark the position on the wall with your pencil that you want to install the wall anchor.
3. Using the drill, make a hole in the wall just big enough to fit the wall anchor or insert.
4. Thread a screw through the toggle bolt before you push it through the hole into the wall. If you’re using a plastic wall insert, put the insert into the hole first before putting the screw into the insert.

Another newer option to consider using is an anchor which looks like a huge screw with large threads. You simply thread these anchors straight into the wall using a screwdriver or power drill, they bury themselves right into the wall so they are flush and have an opening to put the screw right into.

Installing Screws in Wood

If you’re installing your curtain rods directly onto the window frame, you’ll need to screw the brackets directly into solid wood. Here are some instructions to help you out.

What you’ll need

photo credit: roland

• Stud finder
• Drill
• Screws
• Pencil
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Make sure your screws have a big enough thread to reach right through to a joist or stud.
2. Using your stud finder, locate the stud and mark it with your pencil.
3. With your drill, make a small pilot hole (smaller than your screws).
4. Put the screw into the pilot hole and using your screwdriver turn it all the way in.