Inside Mount vs Outside Mount Blinds: Which Is Better?
Inside Mount vs Outside Mount Blinds: Which Is Better?
Quick answer: Inside mount blinds fit inside the window frame for a clean, built-in appearance, while outside mount blinds are installed above and outside the window frame to create more coverage and improve light control. The best choice depends on your window depth, preferred style, privacy needs, and how much light you want to block.
What Is The Difference Between Inside Mount And Outside Mount Blinds?
The main difference between inside mount and outside mount blinds is where the window covering is installed.
Inside mount blinds are installed inside the window frame. The blind sits within the recessed area of the window, creating a neat and streamlined appearance.
Outside mount blinds are installed on the wall or window trim above and outside the window opening. This allows the blind to cover the entire window area and can help reduce light gaps.
| Feature | Inside Mount | Outside Mount |
|---|---|---|
| Installation location | Inside the window frame | Above or outside the window frame |
| Appearance | Clean, built-in look | More visible with greater window coverage |
| Light control | More light gaps around edges | Better light blockage |
| Window depth | Requires enough frame depth | Works on shallow windows |
What Are Inside Mount Blinds?
Inside mount blinds are installed within the recessed area of the window frame. This creates a simple and polished look because the blind follows the natural shape of the window.
This installation style is popular for homeowners who prefer a minimal appearance and want their window trim or decorative molding to remain visible.
Advantages Of Inside Mount Blinds
- Creates a clean and custom-built appearance
- Keeps window trim visible
- Works well with modern and minimalist interiors
- Takes up less space around the window
Things To Consider With Inside Mount
- The window frame needs enough depth for the blind
- Small light gaps may appear around the edges
- Not suitable for every window shape or shallow frame
What Are Outside Mount Blinds?
Outside mount blinds are installed above the window frame and extend beyond the sides of the window opening.
This style is often chosen when homeowners want maximum coverage, improved privacy, or a solution for windows that do not have enough depth for inside mounting.
Advantages Of Outside Mount Blinds
- Helps reduce light gaps around the edges
- Makes windows appear larger
- Works for shallow window frames
- Provides more privacy coverage
Things To Consider With Outside Mount
- Requires wall or trim space above the window
- Creates a more noticeable appearance
- May cover some window trim
Inside Mount vs Outside Mount: Which Is Better For Bedrooms?
For bedrooms, outside mount blinds are often preferred when maximum darkness and privacy are important. Because the blind extends beyond the window opening, it can reduce light coming through the sides.
Inside mount blinds can still work well when you prefer a cleaner appearance and your window frame provides enough coverage. For blackout performance specifically, see our Blackout vs Light Filtering Blinds guide.
Inside Mount vs Outside Mount For Blackout Shades
For blackout roller shades and room darkening window treatments, installation style can affect performance.
Outside mount installation usually provides better light control because the shade covers more of the window area. Inside mount installation provides a more integrated appearance but may allow small amounts of light around the edges. See our Roller Shades: The Complete Buying Guide for fabric and opacity options, and our Honeycomb Cellular Shades: The Complete Guide for cellular shade options.
How To Measure For Inside Mount Blinds
For inside mount blinds, accurate measurements are important because the product needs to fit inside the window frame. Accurate measurements are especially important when ordering made-to-measure blinds, helping create a cleaner fit and better coverage.
- Measure the inside width of the window frame
- Measure the height from the top inside edge to the bottom
- Check that the window has enough depth for the chosen product
- Measure multiple points because windows may not be perfectly square
For a full step-by-step measuring walkthrough, see our Measuring & Installation Guide.
How To Measure For Outside Mount Blinds
Outside mount blinds are more flexible because they are not limited by the inside window opening.
- Measure the area you want the blind to cover
- Add extra width for better privacy and light control
- Ensure there is enough space above the window for mounting brackets
- Consider nearby handles, trim, and window operation
Should Blinds Be Installed Inside Or Outside The Window Frame?
The right choice depends on your priorities.
- Choose inside mount blinds if you want a clean, built-in look and have enough window depth.
- Choose outside mount blinds if you want better light control, more privacy, or your window frame is too shallow.
Not sure which window treatment to order once you've decided on mount type? See our Blinds vs Shades: Complete Comparison Guide or our Best Blinds For Every Room guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are inside mount blinds better than outside mount?
Neither option is always better. Inside mount provides a cleaner appearance, while outside mount provides more coverage and improved light control.
Do outside mount blinds block more light?
Yes. Outside mount blinds usually block more light because they cover a larger area around the window and reduce gaps around the edges.
Can all windows use inside mount blinds?
No. Some windows do not have enough frame depth for inside mounting. In those cases, outside mount blinds may be the better solution.
Which mount is better for blackout blinds?
Outside mount installation is often recommended for blackout blinds because it helps minimize light leakage around the sides of the window.
How do I know which mount option to choose?
Start by measuring your window depth and deciding your priority. If you want a clean appearance, choose inside mount. If you want maximum coverage and privacy, choose outside mount.
Shop Custom Blinds & Shades
All UAM Blinds window treatments are custom-made to your exact measurements. Free shipping on orders $99+, ships to the US, Canada, and Australia. Questions? support@uamblinds.com