Inside Mount vs Outside Mount Blinds: Which One Is Right for Your Windows?
Inside Mount vs Outside Mount Blinds: What’s the Difference?
Inside mount blinds sit inside the window frame for a built-in look. Outside mount blinds sit above/on the trim or wall to cover more area and reduce light gaps.
Quick decision (use this first):
| If you care most about… | Pick this mount | Why |
| A clean, custom “built-in” look | Inside mount | Hardware stays inside the frame |
| Blocking side/top light in bedrooms | Outside mount | You can overlap the frame to cut gaps |
| Hiding uneven/old window frames | Outside mount | Covers crooked edges and rough trim |
| Showing off decorative trim | Inside mount | Trim stays visible |
| Shallow window depth/obstructions | Outside mount | Avoids cranks, locks, alarms |
Inside Mount Blinds Explained
Look & Style
Choose inside mount blinds if you want a sleek, “part of the window” look and your frame depth can actually fit the headrail.
Best for
- Modern interiors that look better with clean lines
- Windows with trim you want to show
- Living rooms where you want light control without a bulky look
- Layering drapes outside the frame
Pros
- Looks tailored and less visually heavy
- Keeps trim visible
- Works nicely with curtains layered outside
Cons (and what to do about them)
- Light gaps are normal, especially with zebra/roller styles (light leaks from the sides because the fabric can’t seal to the frame).
- Fix: pick a slightly wider headrail (if your product allows), add side channels, or move to an outside mount for bedrooms.
- Depth limits your options: motorized and zebra systems often need more clearance than basic mini blinds.
- Rule of thumb: if your frame is shallow, plan on outside mount instead of forcing a bad fit.
Outside Mount Blinds Explained
Choose outside mount blinds when you need maximum coverage—for light blocking, privacy, or to hide imperfect frames.
Best for
- Bedrooms (especially if you’re using blackout fabrics)
- Shallow frames that can’t fit a headrail
- Older windows with uneven edges
- Rentals where windows vary from room to room
Pros
- Better light control because you can cover the frame edges
- Better privacy (fewer peek angles at the sides)
- Makes windows look larger if you mount higher/wider
Cons
- It can look bulky if you oversize it on a small window
- Placement matters more (a crooked install is easier to notice)
Sizing tip (this prevents 80% of “looks weird” installs):
- Aim for 1.5–3 inches of overlap per side if you want noticeably better light blocking.
- Mount it 2–4 inches above the window to make the window feel taller (as long as it won’t hit the crown molding).
How to Choose: Inside or Outside Mount?
Pick the mount based on fit first, then light/privacy, then appearance.
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Check depth (fit test)
If your window can’t fit the headrail, you’re done: go outside mount. -
Check obstructions
Cranks, locks, alarms, and handles often make inside mounts annoying. Outside mount avoids that headache. -
Decide what matters more: look vs coverage
- Choose inside mount for the clean look.
- Choose an outside mount for better coverage and fewer gaps.
Common Scenarios & Recommendations
Bedrooms: Choose outside mount if sleep matters. Blackout fabrics work best with an overlap to reduce side light.
Living rooms: Choose inside mount if you want the room to feel open and finished. Zebra blinds are popular here because you can dial in daylight without going fully dark.
Apartments/rentals: Choose outside mount when windows vary, and you want one simple rule that always works.
Old homes: Choose outside mount to hide uneven frames and make the window look straighter.
Measuring Tips to Avoid Costly Mistakes
Measure in 3 spots (top/middle/bottom) because windows are rarely perfectly square.
- Inside mount: Use the smallest width you measure, and confirm depth before ordering.
- Outside mount: decide your overlap first, then order based on the coverage width (window width + left overlap + right overlap).
- Don’t forget clearance for the “stack” at the top when raised (some styles sit lower than you expect).
Final Thoughts
Inside mount blinds win on a clean, built-in look—if your window depth supports the hardware. Outside mount blinds win on coverage—better for bedrooms, privacy, and imperfect frames.
If you’re still torn, use this rule: inside for looks, outside for light control.
Related Reading
If you’re still comparing styles, light control, or fit, these guides may help:
FAQs: Inside vs Outside Mount Blinds
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How deep does a window need to be for inside mount blinds?
Most inside mount blinds need at least 1.5 inches of usable depth. If you want a fully recessed look, 2–3 inches works better. Shallow frames usually mean an outside mount is safer.
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Do outside mount blinds block more light?
Yes. Outside mount blinds block more light by covering the window frame and reducing side gaps. They work especially well with blackout fabrics in bedrooms.
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Can I switch from inside mount to outside mount later?
Yes, but it usually means ordering new, larger blinds.
Inside mount blinds are sized to fit inside the frame, so they can’t simply be remounted outside.
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Which mounting style gives better privacy?
Outside-mount blinds provide better privacy.
They cover the window edges and reduce side-angle visibility, especially at night.
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What blinds are best for sliding windows?
Outside mount blinds work better for sliding windows that you open often.
For large sliders, vertical blinds or panel track shades are usually the easiest option.