Curtain installation in Singapore

Curtain installation in Singapore usually means fitting curtain tracks or rods to the wall or ceiling, then hanging the curtains. It is a common handyman job, often priced per window or per track. Before booking, decide between a track and a rod, measure the windows and check where the brackets will be fixed.

Tracks, rods and blinds

The first decision is the hardware. Tracks and rods look different, suit different curtains and mount in different ways. Blinds are a separate product with their own mounting.

If you are choosing a motorised track, a power point near the motor is usually needed. Any new electrical point must be installed by a licensed electrical worker; EMA's guidance on engaging licensed workers explains this.

Measuring and planning

Measure the width of each window and decide how far the track or rod should extend beyond the frame, so open curtains do not block the light. Measure the height from the mounting point to the floor if you want floor-length curtains. Note any obstacles, such as aircon units, window handles, grilles or ceiling cornices.

Curtain shops often measure and supply tracks and curtains together, and may arrange installation. If you buy the hardware separately, share the product details and measurements with the handyman before the visit so they bring the right drill bits and fixings.

Walls, ceilings and fixings

The surface you mount on matters. Concrete walls and ceilings, common in HDB flats, need drilling and suitable anchors. False ceilings made of board may not hold a track securely without fixing into the framing or adding support. Tell the handyman what you are mounting on, and send photos.

Drilling in an HDB flat should follow HDB's guidance on renovation and noise. The HDB information on renovations sets out the current rules. Ask the handyman how they check for hidden pipes and wiring before drilling, especially near light points and switches.

How curtain installation is priced

Companies usually price curtain installation per track, per rod or per window, sometimes with a minimum charge. Wide windows, high ceilings, false ceilings and motorised tracks take longer and may cost more. Supplying the track or rod is often extra.

The published rates further down this page come from company websites in the HomezyPro directory, one matching rate per company with its source and capture date. Check each source for what is included and whether hardware is supplied.

• Is the price per track, per rod or per window?
• Is the track or rod supplied, or do I provide it?
• Is hanging the curtains included?
• Is there extra for false ceilings, high windows or wide spans?
• Is there a minimum charge, and is GST included?

Replacing or repairing existing tracks

If an existing track is bent, loose or sticking, it may be possible to repair it by tightening brackets, replacing gliders or adding a support. A track pulled out of a false ceiling may need new fixings or a different mounting point. Ask the handyman whether repair or replacement makes more sense.

When replacing tracks, the old holes may need filling and the surface touching up. Ask whether this is included, especially in a rented home, where the tenancy agreement may restrict drilling and require making good.

Cleaning curtains

Installation and cleaning are different jobs. If your curtains need cleaning before they go back up, the curtain cleaning guide explains the methods and lists published cleaning rates. Some curtain cleaners take down and rehang curtains as part of their service.

Curtains, aircon units and windows

In many Singapore homes the aircon indoor unit sits above or beside a window. Curtains that brush against the unit can block airflow or trap moisture, and tracks fixed too close can make servicing difficult. Leave enough clearance and tell the handyman where the aircon is before they mark the bracket positions.

Check how windows open, too. Window sashes, handles and grilles can catch on curtains or tracks. Measure with the windows open and plan the track position so curtains and windows do not get in each other's way.

Preparing for the visit

Clear the area under each window so the handyman can set up a ladder. Have the tracks, rods, brackets and curtains ready, and agree the exact mounting height and position before drilling. Move fragile items away from the window.

After installation, open and close each curtain several times to check it runs smoothly and the brackets are secure. Check that curtains hang at the right length and clear the floor and any aircon units. Keep any spare gliders, hooks and brackets.

Curtain installation questions

Should I choose a curtain track or a rod?

Tracks give a cleaner look and smooth movement, and suit floor-to-ceiling curtains. Rods are visible and decorative and suit eyelet or ring curtains. Choose based on the look you want, the curtain style and where the hardware can be fixed.

Can a curtain track be fixed to a false ceiling?

Sometimes, but board ceilings may not hold a track securely without fixing into the framing or adding support. Ask the handyman to check the ceiling before installation.

Do motorised curtains need an electrician?

Usually a power point near the motor is needed, and any new electrical point must be installed by a licensed electrical worker. Ask the curtain supplier what the motor needs.

How long does curtain installation take?

A single standard window is usually quick. Wide windows, many rooms, false ceilings or motorised tracks take longer. Ask the company for an estimate based on your windows and hardware.