Instant
01 · Ask
What heading style?
Pinch pleat, pencil pleat, eyelet, wave — different looks, different prices. Describe the style you want and the AI tells you the right heading.
Fit a curtain pole.
Single, heavy or bay-window pole — stud-detected, level, anchored for the weight of lined curtains.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
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Hire a curtain maker. Heading, fullness, drop.
Read the brief on headings, fullness and lining — then let Three local curtain specialists quote.
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02 · Read the brief
Walk in informed
Fullness ratios, lining grades, drop options, pole vs track choices, made-to-measure rules. Know the lingo.
60 seconds
03 · Compare
Compare 3 maker quotes
Three local curtain makers quote on the same spec — fabric, lining, heading, fitting — so you compare like-for-like.
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Top tips
Hiring a curtains & blinds, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Heading style sets the look.
Pinch pleat = formal. Eyelet = modern. Pencil pleat = traditional. Pole-and-rings = relaxed. Choose the heading before the fabric.
Always order with extra fullness.
Curtain width should be 2–2.5× the pole length for proper drape. Anything less looks skimpy. Insist on the calculation on the quote.
Lining is non-negotiable.
Unlined curtains fade, sag and don't block light. Standard cotton lining is the minimum; blackout lining is better for bedrooms.
Get the drop right.
Drop to sill = casual. Drop to floor = formal. Puddle on floor = decorative. Decide before fabric is cut — too short can't be lengthened.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Made-to-measure curtains (per pair)
£250–£800
Premium pinch-pleat (lined)
£400–£1.5k
Curtain pole + fitting
£60–£200
Curtain track + fitting
£80–£300
Blackout lining add-onPer pair
£60–£200
Whole house curtains (mid spec)
£1.5k–£4.5k
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
Infographic · VideoThe Curtains & Blinds briefing.
Infographic
Curtains & Blinds quick-view
Video guide
Curtains & Blinds explained
Curtain poles look basic, but a long, heavy poled run (especially with lined curtains) can pull plasterboard off the wall if anchored cheaply. A handyman or curtain specialist will fit the right anchor for the load.
What's involved
- Stud/cable detection — avoid wires and pipes
- Mark and level the pole position (12-15cm above frame, 15-30cm wider each side)
- Fit centre support on poles >2.4m or heavy curtains
- Anchor properly — plasterboard fixings, masonry plugs or directly to stud
Typical UK costs (2026)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Single straight pole (≤2.4m) | £45–£90 |
| Heavy or oversized pole (>2.4m) | £75–£140 |
| Bay-window pole (2- or 3-bend) | £140–£280 |
| Bracket-only swap | £35–£70 |
Tip
For heavy lined curtains, ask for toggle-bolt anchors or fixings into studs — basic plasterboard plugs fail under the dynamic load of opening/closing curtains within months.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
NEWAI Trade Assistant
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