Inside Mount vs Outside Mount Blinds: Which is Best for Your Windows in 2023?

So you've bought a new home, are renovating a room, or just feel like a re-design of the decor. There's one thing that can make or break the look of any design—window treatments! 

The selection of window treatments available can be overwhelming, and the options range from classic to modern. One crucial decision is outside vs inside mount blinds for your windows. 

In this article, we'll discuss the pros and cons of each option so that you can make an informed decision when it comes time to choose between them.

Inside Mount Blinds

An inside mount blind attaches inside window frames. The blinds are flush with the window, meaning they don't cover any trim or wall space around them. They are often used in kitchens, bathrooms, and offices where a more minimalistic look is desired. 

Advantages of Using Inside Mount Blinds

There's a reason why inside mounts are such a popular choice. They offer several advantages over their outside-mounted counterparts.

Provide a sleek and clean look

The most obvious advantage of inside mount window blinds is that they provide a sleek and clean look. The blinds are completely flush with the window, meaning there's no bulky hardware or frame to detract from the aesthetic. 

This can be especially beneficial in rooms where space is limited, as it eliminates any extra bulkiness that would otherwise take up valuable wall space. 

Allow for full access to window sills and frames

Another advantage of inside mount blinds is that they allow full access to the window sills and frames. This can be beneficial if you want to add curtains or other decorative elements, giving you more space to work with. 

It also allows for easy cleaning of both the blinds and the window sill itself, making maintenance a breeze.

Provide a more customized and precise fit

Instead of getting a one-size-fits-all window treatment, inside mount blinds can provide a more customized and precise fit. This is because they are installed directly into the window frame, meaning that any imperfections in the frame won't affect how the blinds fit.

Enhance the visual appeal of the window

Many people choose inside mount blinds because they can enhance the visual appeal of the window. The flush fit eliminates gaps between the blinds and the frame, creating a seamless look that isn't possible with outside-mounted treatments.

Compliment modern and minimalist interior design

Country-chic might not be your style, and if you prefer a modern or minimalist look for your home, inside mounts are the way to go. They won't detract from other design elements in the room and will help create a more unified aesthetic.

Don't interfere with the window trim

Even in older homes with more ornate window trim, inside mount blinds won't interfere with the frame's look. This can be beneficial if you want to avoid covering up any intricate details or decorative elements that may be present on the frame itself.

May work better for smaller or unusually shaped windows

For smaller windows, like those in a bathroom or basement, or those with an unusual shape, inside mount window coverings may be the better option. This is because they can fit the window more precisely and won't interfere with any other elements that may be present in the room.

Disadvantages of Using Inside Mount Blinds

That's not to say they are without drawbacks. There are a few potential disadvantages to consider before making your decision.

Require a certain amount of depth for proper installation

The biggest challenge for inside mount blinds is that they need the window to have a certain depth. They require at least 2.5 inches of depth for proper installation, and if the window doesn't have enough space, you may be forced to go with an outside mount instead. 

This can be especially problematic in older homes or buildings where windows may not have been designed to accommodate inside mounts. 

May not be compatible with certain types of windows or frames

Shallow windows on a door, for instance, may not have enough depth for an inside mount blind. Additionally, if the window casing is too thick or has other design elements that could interfere with installation, then you may have to go with an outside mount instead.

Can be more difficult to install compared to outside mount blinds

Depending on the complexity of the window, inside mount blinds can be more difficult to install than outside mounts. This is because you have to ensure everything lines up perfectly and that there are no gaps between the frame and the window blinds. 

This can take some time, especially if you don't have any experience with home improvement projects.

May allow more light leakage and be less effective at blocking light

For light sleepers inside mount blinds may not be the best choice for room darkening. Since they don’t cover any of the window frame or trim, there is more potential for light leakage than with outside mounts. 

There can be up to a quarter-inch gap between the frame and the blinds, which can let in more light than with outside mounts.

Can interfere with operating mechanisms such as window cranks or handles

If your window has a crank or handle, then you should be careful with the installation of inside mount blinds. Cords, for instance, can get caught in the mechanism and cause it to jam. This is another reason why outside mounts might be better suited for certain types of window openings.

Do not hide unattractive trim or damaged window frames or sills

Let's face it. Sometimes you just need to cover up a window that is old or damaged. With inside mount blinds, you won't be able to hide any imperfections in the window casing or sill since they will still be visible around the edge of the blinds. 

When to Choose Inside Mount

It might not be immediately obvious when you should choose an inside mount. Here's a handy checklist:

• If you want a more minimalistic look 
• The window recess has enough depth for the blinds (at least 2.5 inches)
• The window frame doesn't have any design elements that could interfere with the installation
• Light leakage is acceptable

If you can check off all these points, then an inside mount might be the right choice for your window.

Outside Mount Blinds

On the other side of the window treatment coin are outside mount blinds. These are slightly different than inside mounts and have their own set of pros and cons to consider.

You might find yourself reaching for these if your windows don't have enough depth to accommodate inside mounts, or if you need to block out more light in bedrooms. Most vertical blinds are also outside mounted. 

Advantages of Using Outside Mount Blinds

There are plenty of other benefits to consider when it comes to outside mount blinds. 

Can be installed on any type of window frame, regardless of depth

Any shape, size, or depth of window frame is compatible with outside mount blinds. This makes them a great choice for homes or buildings with oddly-shaped or larger windows that can't accommodate inside mounts. 

Can easily cover unattractive window frames or sills

Ugly trim or cracked wood?

No problem. Outside mount blinds can easily cover up any unsightly window frames or sills, giving the entire room a much cleaner and more attractive look. 

Can provide a more dramatic or decorative effect

If you aren't interested in the minimalist look of inside mounts, then outside mount blinds can provide a more dramatic or decorative effect. You can choose from a wide variety of colors, styles, and materials to create the perfect look for your room.

Offer better light control and improved privacy

Light sleeper? Get some true blackout blinds, and you won't even know it's daytime. Additionally, outside mount blinds offer more privacy than inside mounts since they cover more of the window and block out any gaps or cracks that might let light in. 

May reduce drafts and improve insulation

Not just light, either. Outside mount blinds can significantly reduce noise and drafts since they cover the entire window and create a better seal. This also helps to improve insulation, as the gaps between the wall, window frame, and blinds are much smaller than with inside mounts.

May be easier to install compared to inside mount blinds

For people without any experience in home improvement projects, outside mount blinds may be easier to install than their inside-mounted counterparts. This is because you only have to measure the width and height of the window frame and cut the blinds accordingly.

Disadvantages of Using Outside Mount Blinds

They're not perfect, though. Outside mount blinds also have some downsides to consider:

Can make windows look smaller and less visually appealing

Outside mount blinds can make windows appear smaller and less visually appealing if they are too bulky. This is especially true for homes with large or high-ceilinged rooms, as the size of the blinds may be too overwhelming for the space.

May not provide full access to window sills and frames

Since outside mounts are attached to the wall around the window frame, it can be difficult to access sills or frames for cleaning or repairs. 

May require larger brackets or mounting hardware

Finally, outside mount blinds may require larger brackets or other mounting hardware to hold them in place. This can add up quickly and become a costly expense, depending on the size and type of window treatment you choose. 

When to Choose Outside Mount

Still confused on whether you should go with inside or outside mount blinds? Here are some scenarios when they might be best:

• Your windows don’t the depth requirements for inside mounts
• You need to block out more light in bedrooms, nurseries, etc
• You want a more decorative look for the room
• You need better insulation and noise reduction around the window frame

Remember that they can, at times, be more expensive because of the added hardware and extra fabric that is needed. If you need budget blinds, carefully consider the cost difference. 

How to Pick Between Inside and Outside Mount Blinds

If you still can't decide between inside or outside mount blinds for windows, here are the three main things to consider:

• Window frame and depth: If the frame isn't at least 2.5 inches deep, you probably don't have a choice. Outside mount blinds is the way to go. 
• Room style and design: Consider the overall look of the room and whether inside or outside mount blinds would fit best. Is it sleek and modern, or do you want a more homey feel with extra fabrics and colors? 
• Type of window covering: What kind of window covering do you want? If you're looking for blackout shades, then outside mount is the better choice since they offer more light control and privacy. 

At the end of the day, it all comes down to what works best for you and your windows. With a little bit of research and planning, you can make an informed decision that will give your home or room the perfect look!

Outside or Inside Mount — Get the Perfect Fit from Factory Direct Blinds

It's a tough decision to make, but hopefully, this article has given you more insight into the pros and cons of each option. At Factory Direct Blinds, we have a wide selection of inside and outside mount blinds that will fit any window frame or decor style. 

There is also lots of handy information on how to install inside mount blinds, or how to measure for outside mount blinds. 

So no matter which one you choose, you can rest assured knowing that it will look perfect in your home! Check out the selection today and make your room shine with the perfect window treatment.