How much space will my curtains take up when stacking back

Choosing the right pole or track length for your curtains is essential to ensure they stack perfectly, providing an unobstructed view and allowing natural light into your room. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of calculating the ideal curtain pole or track length based on different curtain heading styles, how many fabric widths you need for proper fullness, and how much space you should leave for stacking. Whether you're working with pencil pleat, eyelet, triple pinch pleat, or the popular wave heading, this guide will provide all the information you need. Curtain Stack Back Calculator I know my window width I know my track length Enter Window Width (cm): Measure the actual glass width between reveals Enter Track Length (cm): Use this if you already have a fixed track, pole, or wall/ceiling run length Select Curtain Heading Style: -- Select heading style -- Pencil Pleat (25% stack) Triple Pinch Pleat (25% stack) Eyelet (20% stack) Wave 60mm pitch (23% stack) Wave 80mm pitch (18% stack) Curtain Split: Pair (two curtains) Single (one side only) Calculate Stack Back Results Your results will appear here after clicking Calculate. Window Width -- Recommended Track Length -- Total Stack Back -- Stack Back Per Side -- Visible Window Opening -- Track utilisation breakdown Stack Open Stack var dfCurrentMode = 'width'; function dfSwitchMode(mode) { dfCurrentMode = mode; var widthBtn = document.getElementById('dfModeWidthBtn'); var trackBtn = document.getElementById('dfModeTrackBtn'); if (mode === 'width') { document.getElementById('dfWidthInputGroup').style.display = 'block'; document.getElementById('dfTrackInputGroup').style.display = 'none'; widthBtn.className = 'px-5 py-2 text-sm font-semibold bg-blue-600 text-white'; trackBtn.className = 'px-5 py-2 text-sm font-semibold bg-gray-100 text-gray-700'; } else { document.getElementById('dfWidthInputGroup').style.display = 'none'; document.getElementById('dfTrackInputGroup').style.display = 'block'; widthBtn.className = 'px-5 py-2 text-sm font-semibold bg-gray-100 text-gray-700'; trackBtn.className = 'px-5 py-2 text-sm font-semibold bg-blue-600 text-white'; } // reset results when switching modes document.getElementById('dfResultsPlaceholder').style.display = 'block'; document.getElementById('dfResultsPlaceholder').textContent = 'Your results will appear here after clicking Calculate.'; document.getElementById('dfResultsData').style.display = 'none'; } function dfCalcStackBack() { var heading = document.getElementById('dfHeadingStyle').value; var splitEl = document.querySelector('input[name="dfSplit"]:checked'); var split = splitEl ? splitEl.value : 'pair'; var rates = { pencil: { rate: 0.25, div: 0.75 }, triple: { rate: 0.25, div: 0.75 }, eyelet: { rate: 0.20, div: 0.80 }, wave60: { rate: 0.23, div: 0.77 }, wave80: { rate: 0.18, div: 0.82 } }; var s = rates[heading]; var trackLength, windowWidth; if (dfCurrentMode === 'width') { windowWidth = parseFloat(document.getElementById('dfWindowWidth').value); if (!windowWidth || windowWidth < 10 || !heading) { dfShowError('Please enter a window width and select a heading style.'); return; } trackLength = Math.round((windowWidth / s.div) * 10) / 10; } else { trackLength = parseFloat(document.getElementById('dfTrackLength').value); if (!trackLength || trackLength < 10 || !heading) { dfShowError('Please enter a track length and select a heading style.'); return; } windowWidth = null; } var totalStack = Math.round((trackLength * s.rate) * 10) / 10; var perSide = Math.round((totalStack / 2) * 10) / 10; var opening = Math.round((trackLength - totalStack) * 10) / 10; // Adjust labels/rows depending on mode if (dfCurrentMode === 'width') { document.getElementById('dfWindowRow').style.display = 'flex'; document.getElementById('dfWindowLabel').textContent = 'Window Width'; document.getElementById('dfResWindow').textContent = windowWidth + 'cm'; document.getElementById('dfTrackLabel').textContent = 'Recommended Track Length'; } else { document.getElementById('dfWindowRow').style.display = 'none'; document.getElementById('dfTrackLabel').textContent = 'Your Track Length'; } document.getElementById('dfResTrack').textContent = trackLength + 'cm'; document.getElementById('dfResTotal').textContent = totalStack + 'cm'; document.getElementById('dfResPerSide').textContent = perSide + 'cm each side'; document.getElementById('dfResOpening').textContent = opening + 'cm'; document.getElementById('dfPerSideRow').style.display = (split === 'single') ? 'none' : 'flex'; var stackPct = (s.rate / 2) * 100; var openPct = (1 - s.rate) * 100; document.getElementById('dfBarStack1').style.width = stackPct + '%'; document.getElementById('dfBarOpen').style.width = openPct + '%'; document.getElementById('dfBarStack2').style.width = stackPct + '%'; document.getElementById('dfResultsPlaceholder').style.display = 'none'; document.getElementById('dfResultsData').style.display = 'block'; } function dfShowError(msg) { document.getElementById('dfResultsPlaceholder').textContent = msg; document.getElementById('dfResultsPlaceholder').style.display = 'block'; document.getElementById('dfResultsData').style.display = 'none'; } Full article on Curtain Stacking

What does FR or flame retardant mean?

FR (Flame Retardant) means the fabric has been treated or manufactured to resist ignition and slow the spread of fire. This is crucial for commercial environments and public spaces. Key Certifications BS5867 - British Standard for curtain fabrics (Part 2B or 2C) BS7175 - British Standard for bedding and upholstery BS5852 - Ignitability test for upholstered furniture IMO - International Maritime Organization standard Why It Matters Flame retardant products are legally required in many commercial settings including hotels, care homes, schools, hospitals, and public buildings. They provide crucial extra time for evacuation in case of fire. 99% of our products are flame retardant and certified to British Standards. We provide certificates with all orders for compliance purposes.

What are thermal curtains and how do they work?

Thermal curtains are designed to provide insulation and reduce heat loss through windows. They work by: Multiple Layers - Fabric, lining, and sometimes interlining create air pockets Dense Materials - Heavier fabrics trap more air and provide better insulation Blackout Lining - Our 3-pass blackout lining provides excellent thermal properties Acoustic Lining - Our heavyweight acoustic lining offers the best thermal insulation Benefits Reduce heating costs by up to 25% Keep rooms warmer in winter Keep rooms cooler in summer Reduce condensation on windows Improve energy efficiency All our lined curtains provide some thermal benefits, with acoustic blackout lining offering the highest level of insulation.

What is the difference between blackout and dimout fabric?

The key differences are: Blackout Fabric Blocks 100% of light when properly fitted Usually has a 3-pass coating or woven construction Ideal for bedrooms, hotels, and shift workers Provides excellent thermal insulation Heavier weight fabric Dimout Fabric Reduces light by 85-95% but doesn't block it completely Lighter weight than blackout Suitable for living rooms, offices, and care homes Allows some natural light while providing privacy More affordable option Both are available with flame retardant certification to BS5867 for commercial use.

Can I return made-to-measure curtains?

Made-to-measure curtains cannot be returned as they are manufactured specifically to your measurements and specifications. This is standard practice across the industry for bespoke products. However, we stand by our quality and service: If there's a manufacturing fault, we'll remake the curtains at no cost If we've made an error in production, we'll rectify it immediately If you're not satisfied with the quality, we'll work with you to find a fair solution We recommend ordering free samples before placing your order to ensure you're happy with the fabric, and using our measuring guides or check measure service to ensure accuracy.

What is your returns policy?

Our returns policy depends on the product type: Standard-Size Items We offer a 30-day returns policy for standard-size items (fabrics, tracks, poles, accessories). Items must be unused, in original packaging, and in resaleable condition. Made-to-Measure Items Made-to-measure curtains and blinds are manufactured specifically to your requirements and cannot be returned. However, if there's a manufacturing fault or error on our part, we'll resolve the issue fairly and promptly. Damaged or Faulty Items If your order arrives damaged or has a manufacturing fault, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery with photos. We'll arrange collection and replacement at no cost to you.

What are your delivery times?

Delivery times vary by product type: Curtain Tracks: 3-5 working days Made-to-Measure Curtains: 3-4 weeks (as little as 15-20 working days) Roller Blinds: 7 working days Fabrics: Next-day delivery Printed Fabrics: 7 working days For urgent orders or large projects, please contact our team to discuss expedited production options.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept the following payment methods: Credit/Debit Cards - Visa, Mastercard, American Express PayPal - For secure online payments Bank Transfer - For larger orders (details provided with quote) Trade Accounts - Available for approved businesses with payment terms All online payments are processed securely through our encrypted payment gateway.

How do I place an order?

Ordering from Direct Fabrics is simple: Online Orders Browse our products and select your chosen item Choose your specifications (size, color, lining, heading style, etc.) Add to cart and proceed to checkout Complete payment securely online You'll receive an order confirmation by email Quote Requests For larger projects or if you need assistance: Use our "Get Quick Quote" button on any page Call us on 0117 205 0561 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) Email through our contact form Use our live chat service We provide PDF quotes with full specifications suitable for tenders, meetings, and committee approvals.

Which Size Curtain Eyelet do i need for my poles?

When you use eyelet curtains on your eyelet curtain poles. You want to have space for the eyelet to glide across the curtain pole. We suggest using the following dimater eyelets with the following poles Eyelet Size Pole Diameter 44mm 19mm 28mm, 35mm Max 66mm 50mm Poles

Will my room be totally blackout with a blackout fabric?

Although a fabric is blackout doesnt mean the room will be totally blackout. You will get seepage around your blinds which means light will enter your space. The light into the room will be greatly reduced. But you will still get light in a room. See the image below of our blackout roller blinds

What is Acoustic Absorbtion

Acoustic absorption refers to the process by which a material, structure, or object takes in sound energy when sound waves are encountered, as opposed to reflecting the energy. Part of the absorbed energy is transformed into heat and part is transmitted through the absorbing body.

What are the different curtain heading options?

Please read this style guide for useful for information on heading choices for your curtains. You can go through our guide for choosing which heading style will work best in your room. They are in order of price with pencil pleat curtains being the lowest cost followed by eyelets, pinch pleats and finally goblet. Please read this style guide for useful for information on heading choices for your curtains. You can go through our guide for choosing which heading style will work best in your room. They are in order of price with pencil pleat curtains being the lowest cost followed by eyelets, pinch pleats and finally goblet. Pencil Pleat Heading Pencil pleat is the traditional style of curtain heading that is a used in most windows and gives a lovely finish. You have the flexibility from the stitched in curtain tape which allows you to alter the height above your track and pole. Eyelet Curtains Heading A modern finish which the pole slots through the curtains, this means you can a lovely feature of your pole with a contrast of the metal against the curtain fabric. 2 Options Available Standard 44mm Eyelets for 28mm & 35mm Pole 66mm Eyelets for 40mm+ poles can be opted for by contacting the team Pinch Pleat Curtain Heading A traditional heading style that looks grand in any setting. Wave Curtain Heading Modern and elegant curtain heading either in a 60mm deep pleat or 80mm.

What are my Curtain Lining Options?

Curtain Linings We offer a range of linings for your curtains, suitable for various applications. Each lining type serves a specific purpose, ensuring the best results for your needs. Choosing the Right Lining Domestic or Hotel Curtains: Blackout lining to block light and darken rooms. Hospital or Salon Cubicle Curtains: Unlined with dimout material to reduce light naturally. Room Dividers: Acoustic bonded blackout lining to reduce sound transfer, provide blackout, and offer thermal insulation. All linings from Direct Fabrics are flame-retardant and certified to BS5867 for commercial use. Curtain Lining Range Unlined Curtains Unlined curtains are a cost-effective option. If the fabric is dimout or blackout, it can provide up to 90% dimout or 100% blackout. The track location affects the light filtering. Polyester Light Weight Lining This low-cost flame-retardant lining enhances fullness and drape. It can be washed up to 50 times and adds a luxurious feel to dimout and blackout fabrics. Blackout Curtain Lining 3-pass blackout lining ensures 100% blackout. It is certified to BS5867 Part2B and can be washed 10 times. This lining enhances thermal insulation and draping. Acoustic Blackout Lining Heavyweight interlined 3-pass blackout fleece improves acoustics, blocks sound transfer, and provides excellent thermal insulation. Acoustically tested to 9db.

Are my products certified for use in a public place?

We have chosen our fabrics because they are certified to British Standards for flame retardant products. These are all certified for use in public spaces in the UK. Obviously it is worth speaking with your fire officer in case you think they may require special product requirements. But our flame retardant curtain fabrics are certified to BS5867 Part 2B or 2C, Bedding to BS7175 and our upholstery to BS5852.

Room Divider Acoustic Curtain - Sound Blocking

Made to Measure Acoustic Room Dividers

A made-to-measure acoustic curtain designed to help reduce sound transfer between two areas when used as a room divider. Lab-tested performance is referenced below, with lining options available to suit blackout, thermal and double-sided requirements.

Stock note: If a colour cannot be selected, it is currently out of stock and will be on order. Please contact the team for a bespoke quote and lead time guidance: [email protected].

Benefits Overview Who uses it Specifications

Sound reduction

Designed for room divider use (lab testing referenced)

0.95

Absorption

0.95 aw (A-rated) stated for absorption

Blackout option

2-pass coated lining option (light control)

Thermal regulation

Sealed lining options to help reduce heat transfer

Flame retardant

Certified to BS 5867 (see Spec tab)

Made to measure

UK manufactured to your size and build

Expectation setting: Acoustic performance depends on the room construction and how well the opening is sealed by the curtain. As stated in your source content, results are strongest when used as a room divider with no other obstruction. When used at a window (e.g. for road noise), the glazing typically does most of the work and performance will vary by window type and draught sealing.

Top tip: Any of our curtains lined with our blackout lining are stated as thermally certified to reduce heat loss by 30% over a double glazed window.

What makes this acoustic room divider different

This product is positioned as an acoustic room divider curtain with laboratory testing referenced in the source content. Performance claims are presented as tested outcomes (sound insulation and absorption), rather than general “soundproof” marketing.

The herringbone face fabric is stated as 360gsm, with the range designed to reduce echo/reverberation (absorption) and, with selected lining builds, reduce sound passing between two spaces (insulation).

Test standards referenced in your content include EN ISO 354 for acoustic absorption (A-rated, 0.95 aw stated) and EN ISO 10140-1 / EN ISO 717-1 for acoustic insulation results referenced by build. A separate line in your content references room divider testing “for ENISO 1040-1” (listed as written in the source content).

Certificates, washing guidance and any build-dependent classifications are available in the Spec tab.

Where this fits in our range

Choose this option when you need a made-to-measure curtain primarily for internal partitioning and acoustic control, with lining choices to support blackout, thermal performance and double-sided presentation. For window-only applications, this sits as a specialist option where you want both room acoustic calming (echo reduction) and additional sound reduction, recognising the window construction remains the dominant factor.

Best suited for

Dividing larger rooms into quieter zones (offices, studios, multi-use rooms)
Reducing echo and improving speech clarity in shared spaces
Privacy separation where a track-mounted divider is required
Projects requiring flame retardant compliance to BS 5867 (see Spec tab)

Style option: single-sided vs double-sided

If the divider will be seen from both sides, select the double-sided lining/build option so the reverse is finished appropriately. This is particularly relevant for room partitions and open-plan layouts.

Our full guide on acoustics

Video guide explaining the difference between absorption (echo reduction) and insulation (sound blocking), and how to select the most suitable build.

Who uses our made-to-measure acoustic room dividers

Commonly specified where spaces need flexible separation and improved acoustics, including offices, studios, meeting rooms, education spaces, performance environments and multi-use rooms. Suitable where a track-mounted partition is preferred over fixed building work.

For external noise at windows, your source content notes performance depends heavily on glazing and draught sealing. In these cases the curtain may help, but it should be specified with realistic expectations and an appropriate track to support the overall weight.

Track guidance (weight and handling)

Your source content advises using a metal heavy duty curtain track. It also states a standard pair at 200cm x 200cm can weigh around 8kg. Please select a suitable track and fixing method for the substrate and load.

Video: curtain working in an office

Same curtain, different test scenarios (as stated)

Summary of the comparisons listed in your source content (room divider vs window usage).

Feature	Acoustic absorption	Room divider	Window curtain
Reduce echo	Yes	Yes	Yes
Block external noise	No	Yes	Yes
Colours	28	28	28
Blackout	95% dimout unlined	100%	100%
Acoustic absorber	0.95 aw (A-rated)	0.95 aw (A-rated)	0.95 aw (A-rated)
Acoustic insulator (sound blocking)	7 dB	11 dB	11 dB
Test notes	Absorption focus	11/12 dB listed for internal room divider	4 dB reduction listed with double glazed window

Note: All values above are taken from the supplied page content and should be treated as build- and installation-dependent. For specification-critical projects, refer to the supporting documents in the Spec tab.

Technical specifications

Face fabric weight	360gsm (as stated)
Fabric width	150cm
Composition	100% polyester
Pattern repeat (vertical)	1cm
Colours	28 (as stated)
Flame retardant certification	BS 5867 (rating shown as Part 2B in product spec fields; see Spec tab for certificates)
Acoustic testing referenced	EN ISO 354 (absorption), EN ISO 10140-1 / EN ISO 717-1 (insulation) as stated in the description content
Performance values referenced	Room divider sound reduction: 11–12 dB stated. Window scenario: +4 dB stated with double glazed window. Absorption: 0.95 aw (A-rated) stated.
Light control	Unlined stated as 95% dimout. Blackout stated as 100% with blackout lining option.
Washing / cleaning (face fabric)	30°C (when blackout lined) (as stated)
Thermal statement (with blackout lining)	Thermally certified to reduce heat loss by 30% over a double glazed window (as stated)
Manufacture / lead time	UK manufactured. Delivery currently stated as 3–4 weeks.
Important note	For specification-critical projects, confirm build options, installation method and supporting documentation in the Spec tab (including certificates and care guidance).

Technical gaps to be aware of (from the supplied content)

Specific lining product weights and full build-up specifications are referenced but not fully itemised in the provided description.
BS 5867 is referenced in more than one way across the page content/spec fields; use the Spec tab certificate pack as the controlling reference for your build.

Washing / Cleaning Information Face Fabric	30 Degrees (When Blackout Lined)
Flame Retardant Certified Rating	BS5867 Part 2B
Delivery	Currently 3-4 Weeks - UK Manufactured
Flame Retardant	Yes
Fabric Style	Plains
Fabric Width (cm)	150
Pattern Repeat Vertical (cm)	1
Composition	100% Polyester
Features	Flame Retardant

5.0 (45)

Customer Product Reviews

5.0

45 reviews

100% of customers recommend this product

Write a review

Share your thoughts with other customers

Top customer reviews

Reviews with images

Ann T

27 Feb 2026

I recommend this product

Stage Room Divider

Review

100%

Stage Curtain room divider

Was this review helpful?

0 people found this helpful
PLC Customer

8 Jan 2026

I recommend this product

Heavy duty Room Divider

Review

100%

Heavy duty room dividers supplied and fitted for a large PLC customer in London

Was this review helpful?

0 people found this helpful
W Murphy

17 Oct 2025

Excellent Service and Quality

Review

100%

Excellent service and quality of the curtains was great. Thoroughly recommended. All questions were answered very quickly (thank you Jane!) and delivery was speedy.

Was this review helpful?

0 people found this helpful
K Dickson

28 Sept 2025

Prompt and helpful advice and a quality product

Review

100%

Prompt and helpful advice, fabric samples sent and a quality product delivered. Helpful instruction videos on the website

Was this review helpful?

0 people found this helpful
Mr Watson

4 Jun 2025

I recommend this product

Green Room Divider

Review

100%

Very happy with the room divider, works well between the living room and dining room.

Was this review helpful?

0 people found this helpful
E Fisher

6 Mar 2025

This is a company to do business with

Review

100%

This is a company to do business with. The quality of the material is first rate, with an excellent colour and fabric choice. The curtains fit the brief of being a thermal and acoustic room divider, and my heating bills have dropped dramatically, thanks to the thermal lining of the double curtain. The design with pinch pleats hangs beautifully and looks crisp and substantial, and the rail provided runs smoothly. An initial problem was speedily and courteously dealt with without any quibble. Customer service by phone and email was friendly yet business-like. The website advice and video on hanging is clear and excellent. I would absolutely recommend Direct Fabrics.

Was this review helpful?

0 people found this helpful
A Watson (Image Submission)

22 Jul 2024

Double Sided Room Divider Curtains

Review

100%

<p>2 Different Colours Used on the Room Divider to match each room.</p>

Was this review helpful?

0 people found this helpful
Direct Fabrics (Image Submission)

24 Apr 2024

Herringbone Pepper

Review

100%

Was this review helpful?

0 people found this helpful
Margaret Lythgoe

2 Feb 2024

Superb curtains

Review

100%

Superb curtains, high quality fabric and lining. Delighted with purchase and delivered sooner than expected. Would definitely use this company again and recommend to others.

Was this review helpful?

0 people found this helpful
W and P Blinds Ltd

1 Feb 2024

We have been a regular customer for a…

Review

100%

We have been a regular customer for a few years now and have always received very good service. The lead time is always accurate and the quality of the made to measure workmanship is excellent.

Was this review helpful?

0 people found this helpful

Write Your Own Review

Only registered users can write reviews. Please Sign in or create an account

Type of Curtains	Fitted On	Where to Measure from - to desired length
Pencil Pleat Curtains	Curtain Track	Top of the Track - If using a extra wide track or designer track like silent gliss metropole, then measure from the underside of the track.
Pencil Pleat Curtains	Curtain Pole	Measure from small ring at the bottom of eye under the ring, this is where your curtain clips into.
Eyelet Curtains	Curtain Pole – Only	Top of the pole *we add on the upstand to our curtains,
Pinch Pleat Curtains	Curtain Track	The underside of the track
Wave Curtains	Curtain Track Designer Pole	The glider underneath the track. The curtain will sit under the track.
Acoustic Curtains	See Heading Style of Choice above	Same but make sure wider than normal ideally 30cm past either side and 30 above. Also to the floor.

Eyelet Size	Pole Diameter
44mm	19mm 28mm, 35mm Max
66mm	50mm Poles

Quick Quote & Free Sample Requests

Soundproof - Room Divider Curtain | ✅ Lab Certified | Thermal | FR.

Soundproof - Room Divider Curtain | ✅ Lab Certified | Thermal | FR.

Pair of Curtains

Single Curtain

3" Pencil Pleat Curtains

44mm Eyelet Curtains

Triple Pinch Pleat Curtains

Wave Heading Curtains

Stage Curtain Heading

Acoustic Blackout Lining Fleece Flame Retardant

Made to Measure Acoustic Room Dividers

Sound reduction

Absorption

Blackout option

Thermal regulation

Flame retardant

Made to measure

What makes this acoustic room divider different

Where this fits in our range

Style option: single-sided vs double-sided

Our full guide on acoustics

Who uses our made-to-measure acoustic room dividers

Track guidance (weight and handling)

Video: curtain working in an office

Same curtain, different test scenarios (as stated)

Technical specifications

Customer Product Reviews

Reviews with images

Quick Quote & Free Sample Requests

Get Your Free Quote

Quick Quote & Free Sample Requests

Get Your Free Quote

Quick Quote & Free Sample Requests

Get Your Free Quote

Quick Quote & Free Sample Requests

Unlined Curtains

Polyester Light Weight Lining

Blackout Curtain Lining

Acoustic Blackout Lining