I had purchased custom black out blinds, prior to utilizing the Umbra double rod curtain rod, because I work nights. The perimeter of the windows, with light shinning through during the day, has always been problematic. The double rod allows for hanging heavy, true blackout curtains on the big sturdy portion of the rod, and sheers or decorative curtains behind, so that you can open the heavy drapes, when you want to let a bit of light through. This rod eliminates the need to purchase double rods and hang sheers and blackout separately. The combination of blackout curtains on the double rod, and black out blinds, have eliminated the bright sun glare, in the afternoon. This sturdy curtain rod also has the wrap around feature, which allows for fabric to be slid over the corner of the rod, so as to make sure light doesn't sneak in on the sides of the window either. Very nice.