Can smaller diameter rod fit in this bracket? & do I need 2 or 3?

I think you'll be fine using a smaller rod as long as you make sure it is secured into the bracket.

I say yes. As is, or put a short sleeve, made of anything, on the ends of the rod.

as long as the rod you are using is smaller than the bracket, sure.

I used small zip lock ties to hold rod in when there were no screws. Just make sure they do not show. Also I would put up the two rods and if they look as if they might sag in the middle, then get the extra rod.

Wow where did you get these? Been looking for something like these

You definitely want a middle bracket or it will sag for a rod that long. Since they come in packs of 2, I would use all 4. You can definitely use a smaller rod. Cut a slice of cork (from wine bottle) & insert in the space. Or you can buy cork or felt (self adhesive) feet and press into bracket to secure rod, so it doesn't move when you open curtains. I've also used twist ties or florist wire to secure rod in bracket.

Venditelli has good advice. definitely use the 4 brackets on the 96" span. put the bracket that is missing the screw in the middle. or, is it possible to just return the package with the missing screw where you bought it and buy 2 new packages?

You definitely will need a center bracket to span 96 inches... and smaller the diameter the rod... the less distance it will cover without extra support..

YOU can install a screw to hold the rod in place so it will not slide from side to side.... you will need a drill, small drill bit (smaller than the screws) an some self tapping screws long enough to secure which ever rod you decide to use. BEFORE you mount the brackets on the wall.... Drill a small hole thru the front of the rod bracket directly across from the bracket "arm", Then drill the self tapping screw thru the hole.. back it out the screw...

How mount the brackets on the wall... place your rods in the bracket and run the screws back into the bracket until it snugs the rod tight... go thru the rod Only if you need to. Hang your drapes and you are done

You can use a thinner rod, but I would suggest that you add a third bracket in the middle to support the long rod. Also, I would add the zip/cable/wire/nylon ties to just the end brackets. So you can open you curtains with no wire tie showing. Your 5/8 rod may look a little skimpy running 8 feet if you think you might like the look of a larger dia rod you could use electrical conduit or PVC pipe either painted or covered in fabric.

Yes you can put a smaller dimensional rod on those brackets and yes you can secure them with plastic ties (they come in all kinds of colors including clear) and yes for the length you are talking about you would need a center bracket. Have you thought about using pvc pipe or you can cap off the rod with finials which would make the ends heavier ?

Good luck and I think those brackets are very nice!

I think you received enough helpful answers, I was just wanting to know where you found these brackets? I need something like this for my patio doo. Something that will clear the blinds top bracket. Thanks.

If you are only hanging sheers, and use a rod of sturdy material, you will be fine. It will depend on what the rod is made of, to be assured it does not sag. Personally, a good quality curtain rod should be ok. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Better-Homes-and-Gardens-Curtain-Rod-Set-Pewter-1-rod-diameter/10242419?wmlspartner=wlpa&adid=22222222227000008326&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=40925191232&wl4=pla-46697204541&wl5=9025017&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=10242419&wl13=&veh=sem#read-more There is a good photo in the customer reviews that shows the rod with sheers.

you can use any small rod but I would not recommend it the smaller the diameter, the more likely it will sag. For a 96 inch rod you would need 4 brackets. its the width not the weight of the fabric.

I agree with Venditelli. But do what you want to do at this time. If YOU only want to use 3 brackets, then do that. But since you already have to buy 2 sets, and you therefore have 4 brackets, then use all four, and use the cork pieces and clear tape to adhere them, so they never/almost never fall out, and all will be secured. Enjoy where you are now. If this is your permanent location for the nest 2 years or longer, then use the cork/clear tape, so you can enjoy longer. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!

Wow I am so sorry it is taking me so long to get back to this topic! I totally forgot that I posted it after I went with a DIY fixed and I didn't get any email notifications.

What I personally ended up doing was modifying instructions I found on a blog through Pinterest to use plumbing hardware and lightweight metal conduit. Basically, three floor flanges, three 8 inch nipples, two 90-degree elbows, and one tee. Cut the rod down with a hacksaw and just slipped it in. Definitely requires two people (the rod needs to be balanced because it doesn't screw in) but for just over $30 with a $5 coupon at Ace, I've got a very cool looking industrial style French curtain rod.

For those who inquired about the brackets, they are at Bed Bath & Beyond. And cheap at about $20 for a pair, I think? Plus free shipping on $29 and make sure you Scouts the web for a 20% off one item coupon, they're everywhere. I think it's their house brand. I was shocked to find them I really was, but that's where it is!

I also wanted to recommend an excellent and incredibly helpful Etsy seller, ChicagoLumber-- I can't figure out how to insert a link on the mobile site here--but this guy went above and beyond for me even though I didn't end up using his gorgeous products. He sells wood brackets for shelving, most of which also have rods. He, like all of you sensible people, told me that I would need a center bracket. I let him know that that would just be out of my budget, and he offered to throw one in for free. When it became apparent that the brackets he had ready-made would be too long for the space above my windows, he, upon his own initiative and with the promise of no additional fee, offered to design a solution. Super nice guy, so if you're looking for something a little different and have a bit more to spend, he's got cool solutions too.

I'll try to post pics when I can get on my computer again, as well as a link to the blog I stole from, the BBB brackets, and the Etsy seller.

thank you all so much for your help and sorry for the delay.

thank you