A curtain rod or traverse rod is a device used to suspend curtains, usually above windows or along the edges of showers, though also wherever curtains might be used. When found in bathrooms, curtain rods tend to be telescopic and self-fixing, while curtain rods in other areas of the home are often affixed with decorative brackets or finial. New “pin-on” curtain finials are an example of a decorative curtain finial for use on any “curtain rod” or “traverse rod”.Hold up the rod to the wall or casing to determine the proper height. Place the brackets anywhere from 3 to 6 inches beyond the edge of the window, based on your personal preference.. Place a carpenter’s level over the rod to make sure the rod is level.