Custom Shades and Blinds – Should You Choose Inside or Outside Mount?

When customizing curtains or shades, one of the first and most important decisions is whether to choose an inside mount or an outside mount. This choice affects not only the look of your window treatments but also their functionality and how they fit your space. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each, along with recommended interior styles, to help you decide.

1. How deep your window is really matters

📏Inside Mount Depth Requirements for Different Shades (unit: inches)

2.  Inside Mount VS Outside Mount

Inside Mount: 

An inside mount means your curtain or shade is installed within the window frame, sitting flush with the wall for a clean, built-in look.

• Advantages:
• • Sleek & Minimalist Appearance: Creates a neat, custom-fitted finish.
  • Showcases Window Trim: Perfect if you have decorative moldings or frames.
  • Space-Saving: Ideal for smaller rooms where you want to keep things compact.
• Considerations:
  • Depth Requirement: Your window frame must be at least the require deep for proper installation.
  • Less Light Control: Small gaps at the sides may let in light.
  • Precise Measuring Needed: Exact width and height measurements are required to avoid fitting issues.
• Recommended Interior Styles for Inside Mount
  • Modern Minimalism: Clean lines and simple silhouettes that blend seamlessly with the window frame.
  • Scandinavian: Emphasizes natural light and clean structure, highlighting wooden trims.
  • Japanese Zen / MUJI Style: Creates a harmonious, clutter-free space by integrating the window treatment with the frame.
  • Contemporary Urban: Inside-mounted blinds or shades maintain sleekness without disrupting the wall design.

Outside Mount:

An outside mount is installed on the wall or window trim outside the frame, extending beyond the window opening to fully cover it.

• Advantages:
  • Better Light Blocking: Covers a larger area and minimizes light gaps.
  • Improved Privacy: Great for bedrooms or street-facing windows.
  • Flexible Installation: Suitable for windows with shallow frames or obstructions like cranks and handles.
• Considerations:
  • Larger Visual Footprint: May appear bulkier, especially on small windows.
  • Covers Window Trim: If you love your trim details, they will be hidden.
  • May Require Wall Anchoring: Especially for heavy or wide curtains.
• Recommended Interior Styles for Outside Mount:
• • American Classic / Farmhouse: Works well with heavy drapes or Roman shades for a cozy layered look.
  • French Country / Parisian Chic: High-hanging drapes add elegance and a romantic atmosphere.
  • Bohemian: Patterned or tasseled curtains create a bold visual focal point.
  • Industrial Loft: Outside-mounted blinds contrast beautifully with raw concrete walls and large windows.

3. How to Choose?

• If your window frame depth is less than requirement depth, you should opt for an outside mount.
• If the depth is the requirement depth or more, you can choose inside mount for a sleek built-in look, or outside mount for better light control and privacy.

Tips: - Small windows usually look better with inside mounts for a cleaner finish.
- Large or floor-to-ceiling windows benefit from outside mounts for a grander, layered look.
- Irregular window frames or shallow windows require outside mounts.

If you’re still unsure, click here  to contact our team for personalized measuring help.