When putting up a curtain track or a pole, either buy the correct length or get one longer than you need and cut it to fit. The screws supplied with your curtain track may not be long enough to achieve a secure fixing. In that case, use longer screws and wallplugs, or screw into sound ceiling timber. The window top or ceiling may not be quite level, so mount the track parallel to whichever is the most horizontal.

1 Decide on the correct length of track to accommodate your curtains and cut it to length using a fine-tooth hacksaw. Remove any burrs from the cut ends with a craft knife or a file. If the window is wide and the curtains thick, the track will need to extend further than if the material is lightweight. Calculate how much the track will reach beyond the recess. Use a ruler and pencil to extend the top line of

2 Measure 25mm in from the end of the line and 50mm up; this is the fixing position for the end bracket. Repeat to find the position of the other end bracket. Mark the remaining fixing positions at equal intervals between the two end brackets, measuring 50mm up from the top of the window recess each time.

3 Check at each fixing position that there are no hidden pipes or cables. If all is clear, drill the fixing holes and insert wallplugs of the correct size for your screws. Screw the mounting clips into position, following the manufacturer’s instructions. The bracket latches that the track fits into need to be facing forward.

4 To fit the end stops, slip one over each end of the track and tighten the retaining screws.

5 Place the track into the slot in one of the end brackets. Push the bracket latch until you hear a click. Clip the remaining track into place in the same way.