If you're in the market for new curtains or drapes, then make sure you don't forget about the curtain rails. More than just an accessory to your window treatments, curtain rails (also known as curtain rods or poles) can make a huge difference in your windows' finished look. Hanging your window treatments from decorative curtain rails can really elevate your home decor. Keep reading to learn all about the two different types of curtain rails and how to complement them with the right hardware and accessories.

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Types of Curtain Rails

There are two styles of curtain rails: single and double.

Single Curtain Rod

One of the most common types of curtain rails, a single curtain rails is a lone bar mounted at the top of a window that threads through the rings, grommets, or pockets of curtains or drapes to hold them in place. These rails are available in a range of materials including plastic, wood and metal in finishes including bronze, brass, silver, stainless steel and more.

Most single curtain rails are straight and rest freely on wall-mounted brackets, while others are curved 90° at either end and mount directly to the wall. These curved styles of single curtain rails, called French rods or return rods, block out more light than basic single curtain rails, as the curtain can be flush against a wall. Standard single curtain rods that reach straight across are capped on either end by finials: ornamental, knob-like structures that can often be removed and replaced for different styles.

If you're interested in equipping your windows with decorative curtain rails, single curtain rails are ideal for you. With bracket-mounted single curtain rails, you have the freedom to choose from a wide variety of bracket and finial styles that best suit your decor. Elevate a simple single curtain rail by capping it with a set of beautiful gold finials or mounting it on ornate gold brackets.

Double Curtain Rail

Double curtain rails are similar in design to single curtain rails – most rest on wall-mounted brackets and are capped by finials – but they allow you to layer window treatments for a more dramatic, decorative look. Typically the back curtain is sheer and the curtain on the front rail blocks the light. These rails come as a set of two rails: a shorter back rail with simple finials and a longer front rail with more decorative finials. Unlike single curtain rails, which are often purchased individually, double curtain rails will often come as a set with matching double brackets included.

While most double curtain rails are metal they're available in a range of finishes including gold, nickel, chrome and many more.

Curtain Rod Hardware & Accessories to Consider

Curtain Rail Sets: Save yourself the hassle of purchasing your curtain rails and hardware separately by opting for a curtain rail set that comes with matching brackets and finials included.

Holdbacks & Tiebacks: Looking to elevate the look of your curtains even more? Tie them back with decorative holdbacks and ties available in a variety of styles, materials and finishes.

Curtain Rings: If your curtains don't have grommets or pockets or if their holes are the wrong size, you may need to use curtain rings to mount them on your curtain rails.

Hardware Accessories: Find a range of miscellaneous hardware accessories, from connectors that allow you to attach two curtain rails end-to-end to neat knobs around which pull cords can be wrapped.

Tip: Interested in learning more about window treatments? Why not check out:

• Everything You Need to Consider When Measuring for Curtains
• This is How to Hang Curtains Properly
• Choosing Your Next Set of Curtains Just Got Easier