1. “Center support.” To cover any lengthy window span, you need a functional support to hold the bar up against gravity and prevent the drapery rod from bowing.
  2. “Drapery arms.” Very short segments of drapery rods that flank a window (rather than span it) are called drapery arms. They’re often used when the draperies are stationary and purely for decoration.
  3. “Elbow brackets.” When a wall angles and your drapery rod needs to follow, you must place an elbow bracket in the corner to realign the rod to the angle of the wall.
  4. “Finial.” This is a decorative ornament on each end of the drapery rod.
  5. “Decorative rod.” Any rod that will be seen and comes in a finish serves as a decorative rod.
  6. “Traversing rod.” When you have a full wall of window draperies, opening and closing them can be difficult because of the fabric weight. Placing your draperies on a traversing rod can allow you to open and close them just by manipulating a string at the end.
  7. “Track.” When windows go from floor to ceiling and you have little or wall space, use a ceiling-mounted drapery track.
  8. “End cap.” When your drapery rod runs into a wall, you will not be able to place a finial on it.
  9. “Café rod.” When using a café curtain, you will need an unobtrusive rod, since it will be at eye level. A very delicate rod that holds a very lightweight curtain is referred to as a café rod.