Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount Blinds: Which is Better?

By: Natalie Elmhurst

Updated: 11/25/2024

One of the best things about custom blinds from Stoneside is how you can customize every aspect of their appearance and functionality. But did you also know there are even options when it comes to how you install them on your windows? Blinds can be mounted either inside or outside the window frame. When it comes to inside mount vs. outside mount blinds, how are you supposed to know which is best for you?

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of inside and outside mount blinds, considerations when purchasing window treatments for different window types, and some tips from our expert team of window treatment specialists.

Inside Mount Blinds

Mounting blinds inside the window frame means the window treatment will sit flush with the wall, preserving your view of the window trim. Of course, there are pros and cons to inside-mount blinds. Inside-mount blinds require a certain amount of window depth, so not all windows accommodate interior mounting.

Benefits of Inside Mount Blinds

When it comes to inside vs. outside mount window treatments, the most obvious pro of inside mounts is their clean aesthetic. And the benefits don’t stop there.

  • Exact fit: We all have a natural appreciation for well-made things. With custom, inside-mounted blinds from Stoneside, the edges of your blinds are expertly crafted to match the contours of your windows.
  • Preserve window trim: Inside-mount blinds will not conceal your window’s trim, sill, or overall shape.
  • Allows window treatment layering: Layering window treatments is a great way to add more visual appeal and functional utility to your window coverings. Interior mounted blinds let you easily add drapery or a valance.
  • Attractive aesthetic: The most obvious difference is seen in the window’s aesthetics when it comes to inside vs. outside mount blinds. Inside mount blinds have a wonderful, clean aesthetic that looks great in modern and traditionally styled homes.

Disadvantages of Inside Mount Blinds

Although inside mount blinds are incredibly popular, they aren’t without their disadvantages.

  • Not viable for shallow windows: Shallow windows simply won’t have the space to accommodate inside mount blinds.
  • More difficult installation: Since inside mount blinds have a precise fit, installation can be more tricky. We highly recommend taking advantage of Stoneside’s professional installers with inside mounted blinds.
  • Can interfere with window hardware: Inside mount blinds sit close to the window panes, meaning that window hardware, such as cranks or handles, can get in the way or make installation inadvisable.
  • Won’t hide defects: Window sills and trim tend to attract scrapes and nicks. If you’re looking to hide any defects around your windows, inside mount blinds may not be the best choice.

Outside Mount Blinds

Mounting blinds outside the window frame entails hanging them in front of the window to create a small amount of overlap. Outside mount blinds are often chosen based on aesthetic preferences or because your window depth requires it.

Benefits of Outside Mount Blinds

Interior vs. exterior blind installation isn’t just a matter of necessity or visual preference. Outside mount blinds have some real benefits that may sway you in their favor.

  • Hides defects: Have an ugly or damaged window frame or sill? Outside mount blinds will cover it up.
  • Suitable for almost any window: Don’t have much window depth? Have a large window handle that gets in the way? Are your windows oddly shaped? That won’t be a problem for outside mount blinds. Apart from the rare exception, you can install them on almost any window.
  • Enlarge window: Since outside mount blinds extend beyond the borders of the window frame, outside mount blinds have the advantage of making your windows appear larger when lowered.
  • Snag-free: You don’t need to worry so much about your blinds getting snagged (and potentially damaged) on window cranks or handles with exterior mount blinds.
  • Easier installation: Outside mount blinds don’t need to fit as precisely, making the installation process easier than inside mount blinds.

Disadvantages of Outside Mount Blinds

There are some disadvantages when it comes to outside mount blinds. These include:

  • Not as clean looking: Covering up the edges of your windows tends to make outside mount blinds not look as sleek as their interior counterparts.
  • Windows can look smaller: While outside mount blinds can make your windows look bigger, going with blinds that are especially large can have the inverse effect of shrinking the perceived size of your windows, especially when slats are tilted open.
  • May be more expensive: Outside mount blinds will require wider slats and, potentially, more heavy-duty mounting hardware, adding to overall costs.

Design Considerations and Tips from the Experts

The number one consideration when choosing between inside vs outside mount blinds is to confirm which type your windows will accommodate. Inside mount blinds will require a minimum amount of unobstructed depth, while outside mount ones need some space around the window frame.

Second, you’ll want to consider how your windows will look when comparing inside and outside mount blinds. Since inside ones sit flush with the window, the trim and window sill will be visible. Outside mount blinds will conceal the trim and sill, for better or worse. Picture how this looks to get an idea of which look will be best for you.

Lastly, you should ask yourself if layered window treatments are of interest to you. Adding drapery to blinds, for example, is a great look that adds functionality. If this is the case, you’ll want to choose interior mounted blinds.

FAQs

That all depends on how much unobstructed space you have within the window frame and the size of your blinds. Inside mount blinds are not suitable for very shallow windows (not that you need to worry — there are some great window blinds for shallow windows). Contact Stoneside for more specific guidance on measuring your windows for the blinds you’re considering.

Outside mount blinds can be a bit better at insulating windows, blacking out a room, and protecting your privacy, though the difference is negligible with high-quality custom blinds from Stoneside.

A professional installer from Stoneside will measure your windows and install your blinds to make sure they fit and function perfectly. Some people try the DIY route, but we highly recommend taking advantage of our professional installers when investing in custom blinds.

Check out our Top Things to Consider When Purchasing Window Treatments guide for more tips on finding the perfect window treatment for you.

Inside or Outside Mount, Stoneside Has Blinds for You

No matter which side of the inside mount vs. outside mount blinds debate you fall on, or even if you’re still undecided, Stoneside is here to assist you every step of the way. From exploring the different blind design options to installing your blinds, Stoneside’s team of experts is here to ensure your complete satisfaction. Schedule a free design consultation today and start finding the best blinds you’ll ever own.