A Look at Shower Curtain Rods

The most traditional version are straight shower rods, which are available in a variety of materials, including brass, stainless steel, plastic, chrome, brushed nickel, and bronze.  Curved shower curtain rods curve in toward the wall in a half circle, and extend out at their midpoint. This gives users an additional 8” of shower space. Traditional rods are too short for corner tubs, but L-shaped shower rods fit wonderfully. They are available in many materials, including brass, chrome, and brushed nickel.

Oval shower rods were originally designed for use with a clawfoot tub, but they can also be used with freestanding tubs, built-in tubs, and whirlpools.  They are indeed oval-shaped, and are suspended from the ceiling with supports.   The same basic concept is also used with circular shower rods (shaped like a circle rather than an oval) and rectangular shower rods (shaped like a rectangle rather than an oval.)  Other styles available include Trak, D-style, Neo Angle, and U-shaped.

In addition to the different shapes, the various materials also give you decorating control. If you are using brass faucets and hardware, for example, a brass shower curtain rod completes the look nicely.

A company called Clawfoot Supply offers a complete line of unique and stylish rods. Though some are designed for clawfoot tubs, many will fit any type of bathtub or shower.

With the creative use of decorative shower curtain rods, you can give your bathroom a makeover… without spending a fortune.