The center pole is steel construction with a 1″ diameter – a great foundation for strength and stability. Plastic hooks are recommended for windows facing north. It is best not to use plastic curtain hooks in a sunny position as they may become brittle after long periods of exposure to UV light. These hooks are generally suitable for light or medium weight curtains including voiles and linen. 2. Metal Curtain Hooks

Curtain rods, or poles, are the classical solution used in many homes. They tend to be more visible than other solutions. Therefore, you have to think of them as part of the décor, rather than just a support mechanism for your favourite drapes.An iron twisting rod is not included. Instructions advise using a screwdriver which can be a bit more challenging to install. The iron twisting rod is really the way to go (refer to the Squirrel Stopper Sequoia review above).

No tools are needed for this adjustable and fixing-free method. The twist and fix body of the metal rod is spring loaded, using tension and rubber ends to hold it in place within the window recess. Tension rods are also suitable for lightweight voile or net curtains use. Higher quality models will take longer to install because the base entails twisting an auger into the ground – over 1.5′. Look for a model that includes the “twisting rod” because it makes the job significantly easier. Plus, it’s highly unlikely you already have a metal rod that is the perfect diameter, strength, and length to take don’t the task. I know I didn’t! Using lined rings is beneficial for metal curtain poles as the nylon coating provides a smooth, silent gliding motion when opening and closing your curtains. The model was super easy to assemble and install. It literally took me 5 minutes to assemble (inside my house by the way), and a minute to step on the forks and install them into the ground. The center pole is a standard 13/16″ but only had 3 sections which is a plus for stability. The pole sections are inserted into one another for a tight fit. The stability was acceptable considering the fork style.

Pole Systems and Hooks

I don’t consider aesthetics to be a critical factor when choosing a bird pole but I thought the Feed Garden was sharp! I liked the twisted finial at the top – it added a lovely design element. I inserted an iron twisting rod that came with it, into the holes at the top of the base unit and began twisting into the ground. I was able to twist the full 20″ relatively easily. Consider how many bird feeders you’d like to hang and make sure the one you choose can support this number.

The Feed Garden Deluxe is made of iron, has 4 shepherd’s hooks for feeders, and is supported by a fork-style base. These are all features I’d expect from a budget model. I was happy to see it has 4 forks, rather than 3, for more stability. At first, I thought the difficulty was because our ground was too hard so I set it aside. I then installed the Squirrel Stopper Sequoia (just a foot away) which easily twisted into the ground. Instructions are provided but let’s be honest, bird feeder poles are not complicated and the general concept doesn’t vary much from one brand to another.

Just a touch of the baffle caused the solid smooth piece to bob around. No squirrel is going to successfully reach the feeders.

The Best Heavy-Duty & Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder Pole: Squirrel Stopper Deluxe Squirrel Stopper Deluxe Curtain rings can also be used with pencil pleat curtains, where the curtains will hang beneath the pole. C enter poles that attach to one another somehow (via insert, screw together, insert with buttons); Net curtain wires are made from slim plastic-coated steel spring wire. Suitable for use with lightweight voile or net curtains, they include accessories for fixing. Using curtain wires is a simpler solution than putting up a rod. It’s a less visible, more discreet option. It’s perfect if you want something subtle that emphasizes your glorious drapery.Use the correct masonry drill bit size. This is important as you need a tight fit between the wall and plug. The drill hole should be the same diameter as the wall plug to ensure that your pole is firmly secured. Similar to the Sequoia model, the Deluxe’s center pole is made from solid steel construction. While the Sequoia’s center poles are an impressive 1.5″ in diameter, the Deluxe is 2″ ! This is the largest diameter in the industry. Suitable for lightweight voile or net curtains, net rods are made from metal and are extendable. They can be fitted using the included screw fixings, or you can buy self-adhesive fixings separately. Bird feeder pole systems come with a laundry list of features but which ones are really important? Below are the 7 key elements you should consider when shopping for one: A bird feeder pole must be strong because multiple bird feeders, each filled with birdseed, can get very heavy. Look for a strong and solid center pole with 3 or fewer sections that when connected, function as one unit and don’t wobble or jiggle.