How to Install a Curtain Rod on a Tile or Brick Wall

So, you’ve got a beautiful tile backsplash or a charming exposed brick wall, and you’ve decided it’s the perfect spot for some new curtains. It’s a fantastic idea that adds warmth and style, but the moment you pick up your drill, a little worry might set in. How do you get a curtain rod securely onto such a hard surface without cracking a tile or creating a mess? Don’t worry—it’s a very doable project. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can hang that rod with confidence and enjoy your newly dressed window.

The key difference between hanging a rod on drywall and on tile or brick is the hardness of the material and the need for precise drilling. Your standard drywall screw isn’t going to work here. Instead, you’ll be using special anchors, called masonry anchors, that grip into the hard material. The most common and reliable type for this job is a plastic sleeve anchor or a tapcon (a special screw for masonry). You’ll also need a power drill—a cordless one works great—and a masonry drill bit. This bit is essential; it looks similar to a regular drill bit but has a carbide tip designed to grind through tough tile, mortar, or brick. Using a regular bit will dull it instantly and likely damage your wall.

Before you make a single mark, hold your curtain rod bracket up to the wall and decide on its perfect placement. Use a level to ensure your marks for the brackets are even. A helpful tip is to use painter’s tape on the wall where you plan to drill. This does two wonderful things: it gives you a surface to mark clearly with a pencil, and it helps prevent the drill bit from skidding across a glossy tile surface when you start. Once your marks are perfectly level and taped, you’re ready for the most critical step: drilling.

Start your drill on a slow speed with very light pressure. Let the masonry bit do the work; don’t push hard. Drilling into tile requires a gentle touch to avoid cracking it. You’ll hear a high-pitched grinding sound—that’s normal. Once you’re through the tile glaze and into the backing or brick, you can apply a bit more steady pressure. Drill to the depth required by your masonry anchor. Be prepared for dust! It’s a good idea to have a helper hold a vacuum hose near the hole as you drill, or you can simply brush it away afterward. After drilling, gently blow into the hole to clear out any fine dust; this ensures your anchor will sit properly.

Now, insert your plastic sleeve anchor into the clean hole. It should fit snugly. If it’s a little loose, that’s okay—the expanding action will secure it. Next, take your bracket and line it up with the anchor. Using your drill on a low torque setting, drive the supplied screw through the bracket and into the anchor. As you screw it in, the anchor will expand behind the tile or inside the brick, creating a very strong, secure hold. Repeat this process for the second bracket. Once both are firmly in place, you can step back, admire your handiwork, and slide your curtain rod and curtains into position.

And there you have it! What seemed like a daunting task is really just about using the correct tools and taking your time. You’ve not only added a lovely decorative touch to your room, but you’ve also gained the satisfaction and confidence that comes from tackling a project on a challenging surface. Now, go ahead and enjoy the soft light filtering through your newly hung curtains.