Large Patio? DIY Oversized Outdoor Curtain Rods
Having an expansive patio area is wonderful for entertaining and relaxing outdoors. However, finding curtain rods long enough to cover large patios can be a real challenge.
Commercially available outdoor curtain rods over 20 feet long are difficult to find and extremely expensive. But with some basic DIY skills and materials, you can easily construct your own heavy-duty oversized rods for a fraction of the cost.
Challenges of Finding Extra Long Outdoor Curtain Rods
Once your patio reaches widths over 15 feet, locating suitable readymade curtain rods becomes nearly impossible. Standard sizes max out around 12 to 16 feet, with very few options extending to 20 feet. Beyond that length, you'll have to turn to expensive custom alternatives.
Another issue is that most premade rods lack the strength to support large curtains on big patios. The lightweight extension rods flex and droop easily. Sturdy industrial rods with larger diameter poles and beefy brackets are available, but sell for thousands of dollars.
Benefits of DIY Oversized Outdoor Curtain Rods
Building your own super long patio curtain rods allows you to customize them to your exact specifications. With the DIY approach, you can achieve lengths over 30 feet while spending around 80% less than commercial solutions.
Properly constructed DIY rods are also far stronger than flimsy store-bought models. Using rigid materials like wood planks and EMT conduit makes them incredibly durable for holding heavy curtain panels outside.
Plan Your DIY Outdoor Rod Dimensions
Carefully measuring the full width of your outdoor area is crucial for planning your DIY rods. Include the exact span you want the curtains to cover. Remember to account for extra length needed on the ends to extend past your mounting brackets.
We recommend making your rods 1 to 2 feet longer than the area to be covered. The extra length allows the curtains to overlay with airflow between them, and provides room for adjustments.
Recommended Materials and Tools
For most DIY super long rods, we suggest using:
- 1" x 4" weatherproof wood boards
- 3/4" or 1" EMT metal conduit pipes
- Galvanized screws and metal conduit straps
- Heavy-duty adjustable curtain rod brackets
- Corrosion resistant grommets and hooks
- Basic tools - drill, saw, tape measure, level, etc.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these straightforward steps to assemble your own outdoor mega rods:
- Cut wooden boards and EMT pipes to measured lengths
- Join conduit and wood together in parallel with screws and straps
- Mount heavy brackets spaced 4 to 6 feet apart
- Secure rod ends to brackets with additional screws
- Add grommets or hooks along rods for hanging curtains
- Spray paint for appearance (optional)
Tips for Maximum Durability
Properly supporting these extra long spans is crucial:
- Use thicker wood and multiple conduits for very long rods
- Space brackets closer together for heavy curtains
- Use weatherproof materials and spray paint exposed metal
- Install concrete anchors for super secure bracket mounting
Mistakes to Avoid With DIY Outdoor Rods
Be sure you don't make these common mistakes on your DIY rod project:
- Only mounting brackets to drywall instead of studs
- Allowing untreated wood to contact damp ground or roofs
- Not planning proper drainage if mounted under eaves
- Using thin, cheap conduit that can bend and sag
Extra Long DIY Rod Considerations
Spans over 25-30 feet long may require:
- Mid-span support posts for heavy curtains
- Using multiple boards and conduits
- Extended brackets to raise rod for airflow
- Checking level and using shims during install
Achieve Substantial Savings with DIY Approach
Adding up the cost of quality materials for your custom oversize rods will still equal huge savings over commercial versions. And you'll save on labor doing it yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much weight can these rods hold?
A: Properly constructed rods can likely support 50+ lbs. But use extra supports for very heavy curtains.
Q: What are the maximum length capabilities?
A: DIY rods can be built as long as needed - exceeding 30 feet or more.
Q: Is prior construction experience required?
A: No, these rods are easy to make with common tools and basic skills.
Q: What are the best curtains to hang outside?
A: Outdoor-rated polyester or acrylic work well. Avoid vinyl and cotton.
Q: How long does installation take?
A: After materials are gathered, expect 1-3 hours for assembly and mounting.
Constructing your own long-span patio curtain rods is an easy project with huge rewards. You can create durable, heavy-duty rods tailored specifically for your space at a fraction of the cost of commercial options. With the right planning and materials, even DIYers with basic skills can build rods over 20, 30 feet or more. Your sizable investment in a spacious patio will be better protected and enhanced with custom oversize curtain rods you make yourself.