Shade blinds inside or outside mount? How to choose

Deciding whether to go for an inside mount or outside mount for roller shades or blinds depends on several factors, including the type of window, personal preference, and the desired look. Here are some considerations to help you make the decision:

Inside Mount:

1. Sleek Look: Inside mounts provide a clean and sleek appearance as the shades fit inside the window frame.
2. Reveal: Inside mounts leave the window trim and frame exposed, offering a stylish reveal around the window.
3. Depth: Ensure that there is enough depth within the window frame to accommodate the roller shade mechanism. Typically, a minimum depth is required for proper installation.
4. Window Obstructions: Check for any obstructions such as handles, locks, or other protruding elements that might interfere with the operation of inside-mounted shades.
5. Frame Shape: Inside mounts work well for windows with a consistent and square shape.

Outside Mount:

1. Coverage and Privacy: Outside mounts provide better coverage, blocking more light and offering increased privacy compared to inside mounts.
2. Window Depth: If your windows have shallow depths or obstructions inside the frame, an outside mount may be a better option.
3. Decorative Molding: If your windows have decorative molding, an outside mount can help showcase and complement the architectural details.
4. Window Size: Outside mounts can make windows appear larger, which is beneficial for small windows where you want to create an illusion of more significant size.
5. Consistency: If you have multiple windows in a room and some don't allow for inside mounts due to obstructions, consider using outside mounts for consistency in appearance.

Consider Both:

1. Preference: Ultimately, the decision may come down to personal preference. Some people prefer the clean look of inside mounts, while others like the added coverage and statement of outside mounts.
2. Combination: In some cases, a combination of both inside and outside mounts can be used in different areas of the same room, depending on the features of each window.
3. Before making a decision, measure your windows carefully and consider the factors mentioned above.