If you’re looking for a stylish, multi-functional, and easy-to-operate window treatment for your home, you would like to know the difference between inside and outside mount options. Here’s a comprehensive guide about the difference between inside and outside mount blinds.
The inside mount blinds are called so because they are installed to the inside of the window frame. On the other hand, the outside mount blinds are fixed to the area around the window frame.
Measuring for Inside or Outside Mount
Major Differences between Inside and Outside Mount Blinds
There are lots of differences between inside and outside mount blinds for windows.
Sleekness vs Spaciousness: While inside mount blinds look sleeker, outside mount blinds add to the spaciousness of your windows.
Location: Unlike outside mount blinds, inside mount shades do not cover wood trim and are located inside the window frame.
Energy Efficiency: Inside mount blinds and shades are more energy efficient since they completely cover the window opening.
Width: Depending on the window size and design preferences, outside mount blinds may be wider than the window frame to achieve maximum blackout functionality.
Decorative Appeal: While both inside and outside mount styles are equally functional, inside mount blinds are more decorative. This style allows for better layering. The brackets for inside mount blinds do not interfere with the drapery rod, giving the window a cleaner look.
Traditional Touch: The inside mount style is also more traditional than the outside mount one.
Popularity: Inside mount window treatments are a popular choice for homeowners. Inside mount blinds are a more traditional choice, offering a more finished appearance and tucking their ends inside the window frame.
Window Frame Coverage: Another difference between inside and outside mount window treatments is that the latter covers the area around the window frame while the former does not. In other words, inside mount blinds sit inside the window frame, covering only the windowpane, while outside mount blinds cover the entire window.
Space Efficiency: Inside mounted window coverings are more space efficient.
Ideal Choice for Small Rooms: As inside mount blinds do not cover the area around the window frame, they are ideal for small rooms. While outside mount window treatments cover the window frames, inside mount window treatments allow you to use the space below them for design accents or shelving. In small rooms, inside mount window treatments can be a great choice.
For more information about which style is best for your windows, read on.
Things to Consider When Choosing Between Inside and Outside Mount Blinds
Depth of Window Frame: When choosing between inside and outside mount blinds, the depth of your window frame is an important factor. A few inches of inset is acceptable in most cases, and you can choose either style. Deeper windows should be mounted inside, as outside mounting can make the window frame look awkward and make the room appear smaller. If you’re unsure about the depth of your window, it is best to measure your windows before buying blinds.
Space Requirements: Inside mount window treatments take up less room than outside mount window treatments. This means that you can use more space for wall decor and shelving by choosing inside mount blinds.
Insulating Capabilities: Both inside and outside mount window blinds can provide insulation, but outside mount blinds may offer slightly better insulation functionality as they cover the entire window frame as well as some of the area around it. The outside mounting option can help to reduce drafts and prevent heat loss through the window.
Ease of Installation: Outside mount blinds can be more difficult to install and may not fit perfectly in some cases.
Space Factor: Using outside mount blinds gives the illusion of taller windows because of their high positioning. The higher the brackets, the taller the window will appear. This trick works best for thick, non-translucent horizontal shades. Measure the distance between the lowest window trim and the brackets. Add two or three inches. If the distance is too far apart, use a steel measuring tape to determine the depth of the window frame.
Covering Gaps: Inside mount blinds tend to leave light gaps at the edges. On the other hand, outside mount window blinds cover these gaps better.
Sizes and Styles: Outside mount blinds can be purchased in various sizes and styles. To add even more drama to your window treatment, consider adding a cornice board to the outside mount window blinds.
Flexibility: While a few inches of inset can give you some flexibility, a deeper inset will make you want to mount the blinds inside. Outside mounting may also look odd and make a room appear smaller. In such cases, it’s a better idea to mount them inside.
Measuring Requirements: Outside mount blinds can be installed with little or no measuring precision. Besides covering windows, they can also cover doors and hide chipped corners on window frames. They can also be customized to suit any interior design.
Layering: Inside mount window treatments are also ideal if you want to layer them. Because they don’t cover wood trim, you can use multiple window treatments on the same window.
Light Blockage: Outside mount window treatments provide better light blocking and coverage. For these reasons, outside mount window treatments are generally recommended for rooms with good lighting control.
Privacy Control: Outside mount window treatments also provide better privacy.
How to Measure Windows for Inside and Outside Mount Blinds
Measuring your window frame correctly is important to ensure that your inside or outside mount blinds fit properly and provide effective coverage. Here are some tips on how to measure your home’s windows for inside and outside mount blinds and shades.
Measuring Window Frame for Inside Mount Blinds
First, measure the width of the inside of the frame at three different places, i.e., at the top, middle, and bottom. Record the smallest value as the actual width of the window.
Next, measure the height of the inside of the frame at three places, i.e., on the left side, in the middle, and on the right side. Record the smallest measurement as the height of the window.
Double-check your window’s width and height (w x h) measurements to ensure accuracy.
Measuring Window Frame for Outside Mount Blinds
First, measure the width of your window frame from one outside edge to the other. Add 2-4 inches to each side (left and right) to ensure proper coverage and light control.
Next, measure the height of the window frame from the top of the outside edge to its bottom. Add 2-4 inches to the top and bottom to ensure proper coverage and light control.
If you have a decorative trim around your window frame, measure the width and height (w x h) of the trim to ensure that the outside mount blinds will fit properly.
Note: When measuring your window frame, it’s important to use a steel tape measuring tape and measure to the nearest 1/8th of an inch for the most accurate fit.
For Further Assistance
For further assistance regarding the difference between inside and outside mount blinds, you can contact our team of experts using the 24/7 Live Chat option given on each page of Affordableblinds.com.
