How to Hang a Valance in 6 Steps
Oct 10, 2025
Valances might be small, but they can change how a window looks and feels. The right one hides hardware, frames the top of the window, and adds that little design detail that makes a space feel finished.
The challenge, though, is hanging them so they don’t sag, look skimpy, or compete with your shades.
We’ll break down how to hang a valance properly, from tools to mounting methods to styling tips.
Key Notes
Measure window width plus 8 inches total; valance drop should cover 2-6 inches.
Rod pocket valances need sturdy brackets every 30-36 inches to prevent sagging.
Heavy fabrics demand thicker rods and wall anchors, while light fabrics work with tension rods.
Types of Valances and How They Hang
Different styles use different hardware and give very different vibes. A quick tour:
Rod pocket valance. A soft fabric panel with a sewn pocket along the top that slides on a rod. Casual and versatile. Easy to install and adjust.
Board-mounted valance or cornice. A rigid upholstered box mounted to the wall or frame. Very tailored and architectural. Completely hides hardware. Great for formal rooms or when you want strong lines.
Swag valance. Draped, curved sections that hang in soft arcs. Often paired with decorative rods or small hooks. Adds drama without going full drapery.
Box pleated valance. Crisp, structured pleats. Can be rod pocket, clip-mounted, or board-mounted. Reads tailored and clean.
Other common styles include balloon, scalloped, tab top, layered and shaped valances. Many of those use the same underlying mounting methods.
The right choice depends on your room style, fabric weight, and how much structure you want.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
Measuring tape and pencil
Level
Curtain rod or valance rod or board
Brackets and screws
Drill and screwdriver
Heavy duty wall anchors if no studs
Step ladder or safe stool
Optional hooks, clips, rings, or Velcro for specific styles
For board mounted cornices you will also need a wood or foam board and the right L brackets. Heavy fabrics call for sturdier rods and extra brackets.
When in doubt, size hardware up rather than down.
Measuring for a Perfect Fit
Getting the measurements right is half the battle. Measure twice, install once.
Width
For an outside mount, measure the total window width including casing. Add at least 4 inches on each side. Eight inches total is a good starting point.
Layering over drapery or tall stack backs. Go wider. Ten to thirty inches wider than the window is common for elaborate styles.
For gathered valances, you need extra fabric width. Plan on 2 to 3.5 times the window width laid flat depending on how full you want it and how thick the fabric is.
Drop or Height
Standard drops are often in the 18 to 24 inch range, but scale to the window. The valance should cover the top 2 to 6 inches of the window and frame without feeling heavy.
Returns and Projection
For board-mounted styles, measure how far the treatment beneath projects. Your return needs to extend past that so everything is covered. Add 2 inches to the underlying projection to be safe.
Mounting Space
Check that there is enough room above the frame for brackets or a board, especially if you have crown molding.
Common Measuring Mistakes To Avoid
Forgetting the casing and only measuring glass
Making the valance too narrow or the drop too short
Ignoring the projection of blinds or shades underneath
Guessing instead of using a metal tape and a level
How to Hang a Rod Pocket Valance in 6 Steps
Rod pocket valances are the most common DIY. Here is the cleanest process:
Gather your tools and hardware. Rod, brackets, screws, anchors if needed, drill, level, tape, pencil, ladder, the valance.
Measure and mark bracket positions. Decide how far past the window you want to extend. Four inches per side is a safe default. Mark both sides at the same height. Use the level to draw a light guide line.
Drill pilot holes and install anchors if needed. If you are not in a stud, use heavy duty wall anchors rated for the rod and fabric weight.
Secure the brackets. Tighten screws firmly. Give each bracket a small wiggle test.
Mount the valance on the rod. Slide the rod through the pocket. Distribute fabric roughly evenly.
Set the rod on the brackets and style. Place the rod onto the brackets. Step back. Adjust gathers and pleats so they are symmetrical. Cover the bracket ends by finessing the fabric.
Quick Tips
Mount it higher to make the window feel taller. In an 8-foot room, 1 to 2 inches under the ceiling line is often perfect.
Add a center support if your rod is long. Aim for a bracket every 30 to 36 inches to prevent sag.
Heavy-lined fabrics need larger diameter rods and stronger brackets. Do not use a tension rod with heavy fabric.
Other Mounting Methods and When to Use Them
Tension Rod
Best for light fabrics, small windows, or rentals. No drilling. Twist to fit inside the frame and slide on the valance. Keep it for tie-up, cafe, or simple rod pocket styles. Weight capacity is limited, so avoid heavy fabrics.
Standard Curtain Rod
Works for most rod pocket or tab top valances. Same process as above, with more support and nicer hardware options. Good for inside or outside mounts.
Decorative Pole and Finials
When the rod is part of the look. Choose a diameter that matches the fabric weight and style. Install like a standard rod and slide the valance on. Pleated and tailored styles look great on a clean, simple pole.
Board-Mounted Valance Or Cornice
The most tailored finish. Build or buy the upholstered board. Mark and install sturdy L brackets above the window. Secure the board with screws or a cleat. Plan returns deep enough to cover any shade or drapery stack.
How To Choose?
Light fabric and casual look. Tension rod or slim standard rod.
Every day tailored fabric. Standard rod with solid brackets.
Formal or heavy fabric. Board mount.
Statement hardware. Decorative pole.
Styling and Layering Tips
Layering a valance over shades or drapery adds depth when done thoughtfully.
Use double brackets or a double rod so the valance sits slightly higher and farther forward than the curtain rod behind it.
Mind the projection. Ensure the valance clears the front edge of the treatment underneath. Add 2 inches to be safe.
Coordinate fabrics. If the valance is patterned, consider a solid drape, or vice versa. Mix textures without fighting for attention.
Mount higher to lengthen the wall visually and reduce light gaps.
Troubleshooting: Adjusting Proportions After the Fact
Looks Too Short
Raise the mount and increase the visual drop with a deeper style. Add a bottom trim band if you have sewing skills.
Layer with longer curtains to balance the vertical proportions.
Looks Too Narrow
Extend the rod or replace with a wider board. Add returns that wrap the sides to visually widen the top.
Looks Too Full or Bulky
Spread the fabric more evenly. Reduce gathers. Remove a pleat if the header allows.
Consider a simpler flat valance or a box pleat for a cleaner face.
Sagging In The Middle
Add a center support bracket. Upgrade to a larger diameter rod or a one-piece non-telescoping rod.
Safety Tips When Drilling Near Windows
Wear safety goggles. Metal shavings and drywall dust are not fun in eyes.
Check for hidden utilities before drilling. If you are unsure, use a detector.
Match the drill bit to the material. Masonry bits for block or concrete. High-speed steel for metal. Go slow and steady.
Start with pilot holes. They keep the bit from wandering and reduce stress on frames.
Keep clear of glass edges and frame corners to avoid cracks.
Use anchors rated for the load if you cannot hit studs.
Clean up sharp edges after drilling. A quick file or sand fixes burrs.
How High Should You Hang a Valance
The goal is to frame the window without stealing the view.
Cover the top 2 to 6 inches of the window and frame.
In 8-foot rooms, mount 1 to 2 inches under the ceiling or crown to stretch the wall visually.
In 9 or 10-foot rooms, halfway between the frame top and the ceiling often looks balanced.
Over a kitchen sink, you may sit a touch lower to keep sightlines comfortable.
Wondering What Window Treatments Work Best?
Get expert guidance on style, light, and energy savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reuse an old valance rod for a new style?
Yes, as long as the rod is sturdy enough for the new fabric. Just check the diameter – heavier or pleated valances often need thicker rods to keep their shape.
How do I clean a valance once it’s hung?
Most fabric valances can be vacuumed with a soft brush attachment to remove dust. For deeper cleaning, follow the fabric care label – some may be dry-clean only.
Do valances help with energy efficiency?
On their own, valances don’t insulate much. But when layered over shades or drapery, they can help reduce small heat leaks at the top of the window.
What’s the easiest valance style for beginners to hang?
Rod-pocket valances on a standard curtain rod are the simplest. They slide right on and only need two side brackets for support.
Conclusion
Hanging a valance comes down to a few key things: measure carefully, pick hardware that matches your fabric’s weight, and mount it high enough to frame the window without blocking light.
Whether you go with a rod pocket, a structured board-mounted style, or a simple tension rod, the goal is the same – a clean, balanced finish that makes your window feel intentional instead of unfinished.
If you’re thinking about more than just a valance, a free consultation can help you figure out the right treatments for light control, style, and Florida’s tricky heat.
