Window Treatment Guide

Inside Mount vs Outside Mount

Understand how blinds and shades fit inside or outside the window frame, and choose the best option based on look, light control, space, and installation needs.

Clean Built-In Look

Inside the Window Frame

Blinds or shades sit inside the window opening, flush with the frame. This gives a clean, modern look, shows the trim, saves space, and keeps the window easy to use.

Best Light Coverage

On the Wall or Trim

Blinds or shades are mounted outside the frame, covering the whole opening. This helps block more light, works with shallow or uneven frames, and can make windows look bigger.

Advantages and Limitations

Each mounting style offers different benefits depending on your space and needs.

Inside Mount

Best for clean, modern spaces

Advantages: clean built-in look, shows trim, saves space, pairs well with curtains, and keeps the window usable.

Limitations: side light gaps, needs enough frame depth, precise measurement, possible handle or crank obstruction, and does not make windows look bigger.

Outside Mount

Best for coverage and flexibility

Advantages: better light blocking, works with shallow or uneven frames, makes windows look bigger, hides trim imperfections, and clears handles or cranks.

Limitations: covers trim, looks bulkier, needs wall space above or beside the window, and the headrail may be visible.

Which Should You Choose?

Simple rule of thumb

Choose inside mount if your window frame is deep and you care about a clean aesthetic.

Choose outside mount if you want maximum darkness, flexibility, or better coverage.
Pro Tip

Inside mount is best when the frame is deep, square, and you want a clean built-in look. Outside mount is best when you need better blackout coverage or have a shallow or tricky window frame.

Quick Comparison

Feature Inside Mount Outside Mount
Look Clean, built-in Larger, more dramatic
Light Control Some gaps Best coverage
Installation Requires depth Works anywhere
Measurement Precise More forgiving
Space Compact Projects outward
Window Appearance Normal Can look bigger

Still unsure which option is right?

Our team can help you choose the best window treatment based on your room, window size, light needs, and style preference.

Request a Consultation