Traverse Rod Selection Guide

If you have drapery panels that are frequently opened and closed, you might consider using traverse rods.  Traverse rods are used primarily with pleated and Ripplefold style draperies.  These rods have carriers that glide through a channel to move the panels across the width of the rod.  Draperies attach directly to the carriers rather than rings and can be configured to function for either center-open or one-way draw draperies

Drapery Styles

Pleated draperies are available in a variety of styles such as pinch pleats, two and three prong pleats, and French pleats.  These drapery styles attach to carriers on the the rods by use of drapery pins which are small metal hooks with a sharp point that sticks into the back of each pleat.  A hook at the top slips into holes in the carriers that glide through a channel in the rod.  The panels are operated by pulling a cord or moving a baton.

Unlike pleated draperies, Ripplefold style draperies are attached to the carriers using a snap tape sewn along the top of each panel.  The rod carriers contain the second part of the snap.  Ripplefold rods and drapery must be made to match in fullness and master carrier style.  Rods can be constructed to matche drapery panels with a fullness of 60%, 80%, 100%, and 120%.  Overlap and Butt-Master carriers are available for Ripplefold.  Overlap-Masters are used primarily for center-open draperies to reduce the light gap between panels while Butt-Master carriers can be used on either center-open or one-way styles.  Butt-Master carriers turn the lead edge of the panel to the wall.  This continues the flow of the Ripplefold “wave.”

Traveres Rod Styles

Traverse rods are available in decorative and utility models.  From basic rods disguised by the drapery to fully motorized sleek, modern tracks, traverse rods are versatile solutions for any decorating style.

SUPERFINE TRAVERSE RODS

 

Superfine traverse rods are very reliable, hard-working rods that have been a mainstay for decades.  These simple, white rods are adjustable and are offered in center draw or one-way models.  Superfine rods are for use with pleated draperies only.  Drapery panel attach to this type of rod in such a way as to hide the rod from view when the panels are in the closed position, however, when the draperies are open, the rod will be visible.  Superfine rods are an excellent choice for use with cornice boards and valances.

ESTATE TRAVERSE RODS

 

Kirsch Estate rods are highly decorative and intended to shine!  These rods mimic traditional hardware styles although updated finials can take the look in a contemporary direction.  These rods are available in Kirsch Wood Trends, Designer Metals, and Wrought Iron Collections that will complement any décor.  Estate rods consist of a half-round decorative fascia attached to a working track which contains the carriers and cords.  Finials placed are placed on the ends of these rods to disguise the working mechanisms and finish off the ends of the rods.  Pleated and Ripplefold drapery work well with these rods.  Estate traverse rods can be cord-drawn or motorized.

ARCHITRAC TRAVERSE RODS

 

Architrac rods bridge the gap between function and style.  With a clean, contemporary look, these heavy-duty rods are often used in commercial spaces such as hotels and conference rooms due tho their reliability.  Architrac rods are offered in cord-draw, baton-draw, and motorized models.  Like Estate rods, they can be configured for pleated or Ripplefold drapery. 

MOTORIZED TRAVERSE RODS

Estate and Architrac rods are availabe in motorized versions that operate at the touch of a button on a hand-held or wall-mounted remote control.  Somfy Glydea rods are also available with two motor options.  Somfy Glydea rods can also be used for pleated or Ripplefold style drapery.

Motorized rods are an excellent choice for very tall or very wide windows, making opening and closing the window treatments easy.  Motors come in a wide range of power options sure to meet your needs.

Contact our customer service representatives to find out more about the many options for adding stylish and functional traverse rod systems to your home.