Should You Opt for Inside or Outside Mount Blinds?

TLDR;

Inside mount blinds are perfect for windows with enough depth and deliver a clean, built-in appearance. Outside mount blinds are ideal when window frames are shallow, uneven, or if you need more light control and privacy. The right choice depends on your window’s structure, your design goals, and practical needs.

Why the Mounting Type Matters for Blinds

When choosing blinds, one of the first — and most important — decisions is whether to mount them inside or outside the window frame. This affects how your blinds will look, function, and fit within your room’s overall aesthetic.



Mount type plays a huge role in:

• Light control
  
• Privacy
  
• Window depth compatibility
  
• Aesthetic finish
  
• Ease of installation
  
  

So, what is an inside mount vs outside mount? Let’s break it down.

What Is an Inside Mount?

Inside mount blinds sit neatly within the window frame, aligning with the inner recess of the window.

Features of Inside Mount Blinds

• Fitted into the window recess
  
• Creates a clean, built-in finish
  
• Exposes window trim and molding
  
• Offers a sleek, minimal profile
  
  

Ideal Use Cases

• Windows with at least 1.5" of depth
  
• Homes with decorative trim
  
• Modern and minimal interiors
  
• Clients who want layered treatments (e.g., blinds with curtains)
  
  

Pros

• Clean and modern finish
  
• Preserves and highlights trim
  
• Great for layering with curtains or valances
  
  

Cons

• Requires precise measurements
  
• May allow light gaps at the edges
  
• Doesn’t hide window imperfections

What Is an Outside Mount?

Outside mount blinds are installed on the wall or molding outside the window frame, covering more than just the glass area.

Features of Outside Mount Blinds

• Extends beyond the window frame
  
• Mounted on the wall or window trim
  
• Offers fuller coverage
  
  

Ideal Use Cases

• Shallow or uneven window frames
  
• Windows with obstructions like cranks or locks
  
• Areas needing enhanced privacy or blackout
  
• Renters who want to avoid drilling into window trim
  
  

Pros

• Hides imperfections or hardware around windows
  
• Maximizes light blockage and privacy
  
• Flexible installation — no need for deep frames
  
  

Cons

• May overwhelm small windows
  
• Can cover decorative trim
  
• Less of a built-in appearance

Inside vs Outside Mount Blinds: Quick Comparison

Which Mount Is Better for Privacy?

If privacy is a top concern, outside mount blinds often come out on top. Because they extend beyond the window frame, they close tighter around the edges and block out more visibility.

Ideal scenarios for outside mounts:

• Street-facing bedrooms
  
• Bathrooms without frosted glass
  
• Apartments or high-traffic urban areas

Best Mount Type for Shallow Windows

When your window frame doesn’t have enough depth (less than 1.5"), an inside mount is usually not an option.

Shallow windows benefit from:

• Outside mounts, which bypass the need for frame depth
  
• Wall-mounted brackets that offer strong support
  
• Options that cover irregular or narrow frames without compromising aesthetics

Room-by-Room Recommendations

Bedrooms: Prioritize Darkness and Privacy

• Use blackout inside mount blinds if the frame allows
  
• For total blackout, consider an outside mount with overlapping edges
  
• Layer curtains over inside mounts for added insulation and aesthetics
  
• Think about cordless or motorized options for child safety
  
  

Kitchens & Bathrooms: Durability and Function

• Moisture-resistant outside mount shades work well in steamy spaces
  
• Choose easy-to-clean materials like faux wood or PVC
  
• Outside mount is ideal where window depth is restricted by tiles or trim
  
  

Living Rooms & Home Offices: Design Meets Function

• Inside mounts preserve decorative trim and work well in layered setups, making them one of the best blinds for living room installations where style and functionality matter.
  
• Outside mounts create the illusion of taller or wider windows
  
• Motorized options pair nicely with home office automation systems

Motorized Blinds and Smart Home Compatibility

Mounting style matters when installing automated blinds.

• Inside mounts work best when integrated into recessed frames, ideal for smart roller shades
  
• Outside mounts are more flexible for retrofit installations and often simplify wiring
  
• Love Is Blinds AZ recommends inside mounts for permanent smart setups and outside mounts for renter-friendly automation
  
  

Smart tips:

• Leave room for power or battery access
  
• Make sure signal or remote reach isn't obstructed by frame depth

Dual-Mount Window Treatments: Can You Combine Both?

Yes — and it’s a smart interior design move.

Combining an inside-mounted roller shade with outside-mounted drapes or valances can give you:

• Better light control
  
• A luxurious, layered look
  
• Flexibility with privacy and aesthetics
  
  

Design benefits:

• Use inside mounts for minimalist function
  
• Add outside-mounted treatments to soften the frame and increase blackout potential

Still Not Sure? Use This Quick Checklist

Ask yourself:

• Does my window have enough depth (1.5" or more)?
  
• Do I want to preserve my trim’s look?
  
• Am I trying to block light completely?
  
• Are there obstacles inside my window frame?
  
• Do I plan to layer my window treatments?
  
• Do I need flexible installation (e.g., for renters)?
  
  

If you answered “yes” to:

• Depth and trim: Go inside mount
  
• Block light or have obstructions: Go outside mount
  

How to Measure and Install Blinds

How to Measure for Inside Mount Blinds

• Measure width at top, middle, and bottom of window recess
  
• Measure height on left, center, and right
  
• Use the smallest width and largest height
  
• Subtract 1/8" to ensure a clean fit
  
  

How to Install Outside Mount Shades

• Measure width and height of the area you want to cover
  
• Add extra width (1.5"–3" each side) for better coverage
  
• Mount above the window for height illusion
  
  

Installation tips:

• Use a level for straight alignment
  
• Choose anchors or screws based on wall material
  
• Consider professional installation for motorized systems

Inside vs Outside Mount Blind Pricing and Value

Cost Considerations

• Inside mounts often require custom sizing, slightly raising cost
  
• Outside mounts use more material but are sometimes easier to install
  
  

Value Tips from Love Is Blinds AZ:

• For long-term homes, invest in custom inside mounts for a tailored look
  
• For rentals or budget-conscious installs, outside mounts offer flexibility and coverage at a lower price
  
  

Factors affecting price:

• Window dimensions
  
• Blind material (faux wood, real wood, aluminum)
  
• Custom features (motorization, cordless, top-down/bottom-up)
  
• Professional vs DIY installation
  

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between inside and outside mount blinds?

Inside mounts fit within the window frame; outside mounts go on the wall or trim around the window.

Are outside mounts better for blackout?

Yes. They cover more area, reducing light leakage at the edges.

Can I install blinds without drilling?

Yes, some no-drill brackets are available, especially for inside mounts. Tension-based or adhesive mounts may work for light blinds.

What’s the best mount for small windows?

Outside mounts can make small windows appear larger. Inside mounts can help maintain a minimalist appearance.

Do inside mount blinds reduce room size visually?

No — in fact, they preserve wall space and contribute to a cleaner, more open appearance.

Choosing the Right Mount for Your Window Style

There’s no universal answer. The decision between inside or outside mount blinds depends entirely on your windows, your goals, and your style.

At Love Is Blinds AZ, we guide clients through every factor:

• Frame depth
  
• Trim visibility
  
• Light control needs
  
• Room purpose
  
• Privacy requirements
  
• Budget and installation preferences
  
  

Whether you’re designing your dream home, updating your office, or making a rental feel like your own, choosing the right blind mount style makes all the difference.

Ready to elevate your windows? Reach out to Love Is Blinds AZ and let our window treatment experts help you choose the perfect fit — inside or out.