When choosing custom blinds, the style and material are core parts of the decision. How you mount the blinds can also affect their appearance, coverage, light control, and everyday operation. The two main options are inside mount and outside mount.
Comparing inside vs outside mount blinds can help you choose a setup that works with your window, not just one that looks good in a product photo. An inside mount sits within the window recess, while an outside mount is installed over the window opening or frame.
Neither option is automatically better for every property. The right choice depends on your window structure, available depth, desired coverage, existing trim, and the type of blind you plan to install.
In this guide, we’ll compare inside vs. outside mount blinds, explore their advantages and disadvantages, explain how to choose between the two, and discuss measurement requirements and different mounting applications.
We’ll also explain why you should choose Blinds Design Inc. when buying custom window blinds online in Canada.
What Are Inside Mount Blinds?
Inside mount blinds are window blinds or shades installed within the window frame (the recessed opening, or “casing”), rather than on the wall or trim around it. The headrail is screwed into the top of the window recess, so the blind sits flush inside the opening.
This option allows the window frame and surrounding trim to remain visible. It can create a clean, streamlined look, particularly when the window has enough depth to accommodate the selected blind.
For an inside mount to work properly, there needs to be sufficient recess depth. The depth requirement can vary depending on the product. Window handles, locks, screens, and other hardware can also affect whether there is enough room for the blind to operate correctly.
Inside mounting is often chosen when homeowners want the window itself and its trim to remain part of the overall design.
What Are Outside Mount Blinds?
Outside mount blinds are installed outside the window recess, usually on the wall or window frame above and around the opening. Instead of sitting within the recess, the blind covers more of the window area.
This method is useful when a window is not deep enough for an inside mount, and it also offers greater coverage while reducing light at the edges.
Outside mounting is often the practical option when windows are shallow, when there are obstructions, or when the main considerations are maximum privacy and coverage.
Since the blind is placed outside the recess, it will usually cover some or all of the existing window trim.
Inside vs Outside Mount Blinds: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Inside Mount | Outside Mount |
| Installation | Inside window recess | Over or outside window recess |
| Window coverage | Fits within opening | Covers opening and can extend beyond it |
| Light gaps | May have small side gaps | Can minimize gaps with wider coverage |
| Window trim | Remains visible | May be partially or fully covered |
| Depth requirement | Requires sufficient recess depth | Works with shallow recesses |
| Appearance | Clean and integrated | More prominent |
| Measurement | Requires precise recess measurements | Requires accurate overall coverage measurements |
Pros and Cons of Inside Mount Blinds
Pros
- Neat, streamlined appearance: The blind sits within the recess rather than extending beyond the window.
- Window trim remains visible: Existing casing and trim can continue to contribute to the room’s design.
- Integrated appearance: The treatment becomes part of the window rather than covering the surrounding wall.
- Works well with clean interiors: Inside mounting can complement minimalist and contemporary spaces.
Cons
- Requires adequate recess depth: Some windows do not have enough room for the selected blind.
- May leave small gaps: Light can enter around the edges because the blind must fit within the opening.
- Hardware can interfere: Handles, locks, screens, and other components may affect installation or operation.
- Less flexibility for coverage: The blind cannot extend beyond the opening when mounted inside.
Pros and Cons of Outside Mount Blinds
Pros
- Works with shallow recesses: Outside mounting does not require the same depth as an inside installation.
- Provides broader coverage: The blind can extend beyond the window opening.
- Can minimize light gaps: Additional width and height can provide more complete coverage.
- Useful for challenging windows: It can be a practical solution when window hardware or construction prevents an inside mount.
Cons
- Covers window trim: The surrounding frame may become partially or completely hidden.
- Requires sufficient wall space: You need enough room around the window for the blind and its brackets.
- More visible: The treatment can become a stronger visual element in the room.
- Positioning matters: Incorrect placement can affect appearance and operation.
How to Decide Between Inside vs Outside Mount Blinds
Look at Your Window Structure
Start by examining the window itself.
Check the recess depth, frame shape, handles, locks, screens, and any other obstacles. A window may look suitable for an inside mount until you consider the hardware.
If the recess is too shallow, outside mounting may be the better option.
Consider the Desired Look
Think about how prominent you want the window treatment to be.
For a more minimal look, and if you want to keep the trim visible, an inside mount might be more appropriate. If you want the blinds to have a bolder visual impact or cover more of the window, an outside mount could be better.
Think About Coverage Requirements
The choice can be affected by considerations of privacy and control over light.
In some rooms, the neat look of an internally mounted unit may matter more, while in others with bedrooms and street-facing windows, external mounting may be better.
Consider the Type of Blind
The mounting method can also depend on the product.
Common custom options include:
- Roller blinds
- Zebra blinds
- Roman blinds
- Vertical blinds
- Wood and faux wood blinds
- Other custom window-treatment styles
Not every product has the same mounting requirements, so always confirm compatibility before ordering.
How to Measure for Inside and Outside Mount Blinds
Accurate measurements are essential for custom blinds.
For an inside mount, you generally need to measure the width and height of the window recess at multiple points. Also check the recess depth to confirm the selected product will fit properly.
For an outside mount, measurements focus on the area you want the blind to cover. This can include the window opening plus additional width and height around the window to achieve the desired coverage.
Do not assume that a single measurement is enough. Windows can be slightly uneven, particularly in older homes.
Professional measurements are especially useful when you are ordering several blinds, dealing with large windows or odd shapes, or selecting motorized products.
Which Mounting Style Works for You?
Bedrooms
In bedrooms, privacy and control over light are generally important; an outside mount can offer wider coverage, and blackout items can further cut down on unwanted light.
Living Areas
Both can be effective; using internal mounting is useful if you want to emphasize the existing trim, while external mounting can give greater coverage for bright or highly exposed windows.
Kitchens and Bathrooms
You should also take into account moisture, cleaning, and the window hardware, as well as the available recess depth and where the window is placed when making your decision about mounting.
Offices
Glare control can be a major consideration in home and commercial offices. The best mounting method depends on the window’s construction and how much coverage is needed.
Commercial Spaces
Large windows and unusual configurations require a more carefully planned installation. Outside-mounted systems can sometimes provide broader coverage, while inside mounting may offer a cleaner architectural appearance.
Rental Properties
Inside mounts can be attractive when preserving existing trim is important. However, the property owner or manager should consider the window structure and whether modifications are permitted.
Large or Specialty Windows
Large windows, patio doors, and specialty shapes require careful planning. The mounting method should be selected based on the dimensions, available mounting surface, product weight, and desired operation.
Common Mounting Mistakes to Avoid
A few simple mistakes can lead to poor fit or difficult operation:
- Not checking the window depth.
- Measuring incorrectly.
- Ignoring window handles and hardware.
- Choosing a mounting style before checking the window.
- Not allowing enough space for blind operation.
- Assuming every blind has identical mounting requirements.
- Forgetting to consider light gaps.
- Ordering custom blinds without confirming measurements.
If you’re uncertain, professional measurement is usually worth considering before placing a custom order.
Why Choose Blinds Design Inc. for Buying Custom Blinds Online in Canada?
If you plan to buy custom window blinds online in Canada, choosing the right product is only part of the process. You also need to consider accurate measurements, mounting options, materials, and installation requirements.
Blinds Design Inc. offers custom window treatment solutions for a variety of window sizes and configurations, helping customers find options that suit their homes, offices, and commercial spaces.
Here’s what we offer:
Custom Solutions for Different Windows
We offer custom blinds tailored to standard, oversized, and challenging window configurations, helping provide a precise fit for your space rather than relying on generic sizes.
Guidance on Mounting Style
The right mounting option depends on your window’s structure, available depth, and desired coverage. Our guidance can help you determine whether an inside or outside mount is the better choice for your windows.
Variety of Styles and Materials
We offer a range of blind styles and materials to complement your preferred look while considering factors such as privacy, light control, and the function of each room.
Residential and Commercial Applications
We offer custom window treatments for residential and commercial applications, with options suitable for homes, condos, offices, retail spaces, and other commercial properties.
Support From Selection Through Installation
From selecting the right blinds and confirming measurements to understanding mounting and installation requirements, our support can make the process easier and help reduce the risk of costly ordering or installation mistakes.
Conclusion
Choosing between inside and outside mount blinds ultimately depends on your window structure, available recess depth, desired appearance, and coverage requirements. Inside mounts offer a clean, integrated look while keeping the window trim visible, whereas outside mounts can provide broader coverage and work well for shallow or obstructed recesses.
Before ordering custom blinds, take the time to assess your windows, consider your preferred level of privacy and light control, and confirm the mounting requirements of your chosen blind style.
Accurate measurements can also help ensure a better fit and smoother installation.
Not sure which mounting option is right for your windows? Book a consultation with Blinds Design Inc. to explore custom blind options suited to your space.
Get professional guidance on mounting styles, measurements, and window treatment options, and take the next step toward finding the right custom blinds for your home or business in Canada.
FAQs
Do blinds look better inside or outside recess?
It depends on the room, window structure, and your preferred look. Inside mounts generally create a cleaner, more integrated appearance while keeping the window trim visible. Outside mounts are more prominent but can provide greater coverage and may work better for shallow recesses.
What is the current trend for blinds?
Roller blinds, Zebra blinds, Roman shades, and motorized solutions remain popular window treatment options because of their neat, practical design.
Homeowners are also paying more attention to cordless operation, light control, privacy, and treatments that complement the overall interior rather than simply covering the window.
Which mounting option provides better window coverage?
Outside mounting generally provides broader coverage because the blind can extend beyond the window opening. This can help reduce side gaps and improve privacy and light control.
However, the exact coverage depends on the blind style, measurements, and installation.
Can any type of blind be installed as an inside or outside mount?
Not necessarily. Many popular blind styles can accommodate different mounting configurations, but the specific requirements vary by product. Factors such as bracket design, available depth, window hardware, and product dimensions can affect compatibility.
Always confirm the mounting options for your selected blinds before ordering.
Is professional measurement necessary for custom blinds?
It is not always mandatory, but professional measurement can be highly beneficial. Accurate measurements are particularly important for multiple windows, unusually shaped openings, large windows, shallow recesses, and motorized blinds.
Professional measurement can also help identify obstructions and mounting limitations before you order your blinds.
