When you’re dealing with window treatments, two of the terms you might hear are inside mount and outside mount. “Inside mount” refers to window treatments being installed within the window frame or the boxed drywall structure around the window. “Outside mount” window treatments are installed on the outside of the window frame—that is, closer into the room.

When a designer is planning how to install window treatments in a home, one of the first questions is where to mount the blinds or shades. Where the blinds and shades are mounted has some bearing on how the window treatment looks. But more often, the way the window treatment is mounted is simply a matter of what’s possible.

Let’s go over the differences in more detail.

Inside Mount

Mounting a set of blinds or a shade inside the window frame is generally the first option a designer will consider. That’s because inside mounts have cleaner look and are less obtrusive in terms of how far the window treatment protrudes into the living space.

There is minor disadvantage to inside mounted blinds and shades. Slightly more light will seep through the sides of the shade or set of blinds when compared to an outside mounted window treatment. For most people, this small amount of light is not significant. But to others, it’s an important consideration.

Outside Mount

Window treatments mounted to the outside of the window cover the entire window frame and can extend partially over the window’s trim or even extend out over the wall.

There are a few reasons why a designer might choose an outside mount. The first is necessity: if the window frame isn’t deep enough to mount a set of blinds or a shade, outside mount is the only option.

Another issue is light control. If a homeowner wants maximum light control, an outside mount can help provide that.

The last issue is aesthetics. An outside mounted window treatment can give the impression that a window is larger or taller than it actually is. This is desirable in a small or low room or any room.

How to Choose

So, which is right for you? The answer is simple: get guidance from your Couvrant Design Experts. They have the experience and design skills to help you determine what’s the best option for your windows. They’ll first look at your window frames to see which mounting option is possible. Then they’ll consider the look of the window treatment and room.

Get the perfect blinds, shades, shutters, or drapery for your home.