Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount Window Treatments: Which Is Best for Your Home?
Learn the differences between inside and outside mount window treatments including appearance, light control, privacy, and functionality to determine the best fit for your home.
When selecting custom window treatments, one of the first decisions you'll make isn't the fabric or color—it's how they'll be mounted.
Choosing between an inside mount and an outside mount may seem like a small detail, but it can significantly impact your home's appearance, light control, privacy, and the overall performance of your shades, blinds, or shutters.
Here's what you need to know before making your decision.
What Is an Inside Mount?
An inside mount window treatment is installed within the window frame, creating a clean, streamlined appearance.
This option is popular because it allows your window trim and architectural details to remain visible while providing a tailored, built-in look.
Benefits of an Inside Mount
- Clean, modern appearance
- Highlights decorative window trim
- Ideal for roller shades, woven wood shades, and many blinds
- Creates a custom, built-in look
- Keeps window treatments flush with the wall
Things to Consider
Because inside mount treatments fit within the window opening, a small amount of light may enter around the edges. If complete room darkening is your goal, additional solutions may be recommended.
What Is an Outside Mount?
Outside mount window treatments are installed on the wall or trim surrounding the window rather than inside the frame.
By extending beyond the window opening, they provide greater coverage and can dramatically change the appearance of a room.
Benefits of an Outside Mount
- Better light control
- Increased privacy
- Makes windows appear larger
- Can create the illusion of taller ceilings when mounted higher
- Ideal for shallow window frames that cannot accommodate an inside mount
- Helps conceal uneven or imperfect window openings
Outside mount treatments are often recommended when maximizing privacy or reducing light gaps is a priority.
Which Option Provides Better Light Control?
If your primary goal is room darkening, an outside mount generally provides better coverage.
Because the treatment extends beyond the edges of the window, it minimizes light leakage around the sides. This makes outside mounts a popular choice for bedrooms, media rooms, and other spaces where light control is important.
For homeowners who prefer the clean look of an inside mount, layering custom drapery can provide additional light control while adding softness and dimension to the room.
Which Mount Is Right for Your Home?
Neither option is universally better—the right choice depends on your windows, your home's architecture, and your priorities.
An inside mount may be the best fit if you:
- Prefer a clean, minimalist look
- Have deep window frames
- Want to showcase decorative trim
- Plan to layer with custom drapery
An outside mount may be the better choice if you:
- Want maximum privacy
- Need improved room darkening
- Have shallow window frames
- Want windows to appear larger or ceilings to feel taller
Can Every Window Have an Inside Mount?
Not always.
The depth and construction of your window frame determine whether an inside mount is possible.
During a consultation, our specialists evaluate factors including:
- Window depth
- Window squareness
- Trim dimensions
- Obstructions such as window cranks or handles
- Motorization requirements
- Your desired level of light control and privacy
These measurements help ensure your window treatments not only fit correctly but also perform as intended.
Professional Measuring Makes the Difference
Every home—and every window—is unique.
Professional measuring ensures your custom window treatments fit precisely, operate smoothly, and achieve the look you're after. Whether you're selecting roller shades, woven wood shades, blinds, shutters, or custom drapery, choosing the correct mounting style is one of the most important decisions in the process.
At Park City Blind & Design, our window treatment specialists guide you through every step—from product selection and expert measurements to professional installation—so you can feel confident your investment will look beautiful and perform for years to come.
Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation
Choosing the right mounting style is just one part of creating beautiful, functional window treatments.
Whether you're furnishing a new home, renovating, or updating a single room, our team can help you select the best solution for your windows, lifestyle, and light control needs.
Schedule your complimentary consultation with Park City Blind & Design today, and let our specialists help you create window treatments that are thoughtfully designed, expertly installed, and perfectly covered.
You can also visit our showrooms and connect with an expert to learn more about your options.
