
An outside mount blind installation is a great option for many rooms, but it's essential to understand the process and what to expect. The headrail of an outside mount blind is mounted to the wall or window frame outside of the window recess.
To ensure a proper fit, you'll need to measure your window carefully. This involves taking note of the width of the window and any obstructions, such as handles or hinges.
A standard outside mount blind installation typically requires a minimum of 2 inches of clearance from the window frame on each side. This allows for easy operation and prevents the blind from getting stuck.
The type of window you have will also impact the installation process. For example, if you have a casement window, you'll need to consider the hinge side and ensure the blind is installed accordingly.
On a similar theme: Blinds Com Installation
Should I Install Blinds?
If you're deciding between inside and outside mounts for your blinds, it's essential to measure the depth of your window frame first.
An inside mount is usually recommended, but outside mounts are necessary when windows are too shallow or have obstructions.
For inside mounts, measure from where obstructions stop to the edge of the window molding or drywall.
Double hung windows require measuring from the farthest protruding pane to the edge of the trim.
Check the product specifications for the blinds or shades you want to order to see if you have enough unobstructed depth for an inside mount.
If your window frame is too shallow, your blinds might stick out slightly, but you can still choose to keep them.
You can paint the frame the same color as your blinds to make them blend in.
If the blinds only stick out by a couple of inches, you might not even notice, and a valance can help create a intentional look.
Mounting on the outside can be a good option if you have very thin window frames, but it often requires a wider blind and possibly a new set of blinds.
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Understanding Mount Options
When choosing a mount option for your blinds, it's essential to consider the type of installation you need.
An outside mount is a popular choice for blinds, especially for windows with a wide sill or a decorative trim.
For outside mounts, you'll typically need to measure the width of the window frame, not the glass.
What Is an Outside Mount?
An outside mount is a type of window treatment installation where the blind or shade is mounted outside the window frame, typically on the wall surrounding the window.
This type of installation is often preferred for its clean and sleek appearance, and it can be especially beneficial for windows with unique or irregular shapes.
Outside mounts can be installed on windows with a variety of frame styles, including wood, vinyl, and aluminum.
They are also a good option for windows with narrow or wide frames, as they can be adjusted to fit the specific size of the window.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Shutters on Dormer Windows
In contrast to inside mounts, outside mounts don't require any modifications to the window frame, making them a more convenient option for many homeowners.
This convenience factor is one reason why outside mounts are often chosen for windows in high-traffic areas or for homeowners who want a low-maintenance window treatment solution.
Additional reading: X3 Light Bar Mounts
Wall or Ceiling
When deciding where to mount your installation, the wall or ceiling is a crucial consideration. Mounting directly on the drywall is usually the best option.
You'll typically want to mount on the drywall above the window opening or above any existing trim. Take into account obstructions around the window such as trim depth, AC units, and window cranks.
Mounting on the ceiling can be a good choice if you have limited wall space or want to create a sleek, minimalist look.
For another approach, see: Mounting Fluorescent Light Fixtures
How to Measure
To measure for outside mount blinds, you need to add about 2 inches on all sides to get full coverage.
You'll want to provide the exact dimensions you want your blinds or shades to be, without any deductions at the factory.
Make sure you have at least two inches of level surface above the window trim to attach the outside mounting brackets to the wall.
Types of Blinds and Considerations
If you're considering wooden blinds, you have two main options: inside mount or outside mount. Inside mount means the blind fits within the window frame, while outside mount involves attaching the blind to the wall outside the frame.
You can choose to let your wooden blinds stick out from the frame, which is great if you want to keep your current blinds and only need to adjust the depth. This can look good if you paint the frame to match the color of your blinds.
Mounting on the outside can be beneficial if you have very thin window frames, and you'll need a wider blind to fit. This can often mean buying a new set of blinds, but it can also provide some heating benefits by reducing the space for heat to escape.
For another approach, see: Venetian Window Blind
Other Considerations
Mounting your window treatments on the inside of the window frame can create a small light gap on each side, allowing for smooth movement. This gap can be minimized with room-darkening and blackout solutions.
If you choose to mount your blinds on the inside, the stack of the blind that gathers at the top of the window can obscure your full view when fully raised. This is something to consider when deciding where to mount your blinds.
Mounting your shades on the outside of the window frame can help clear obstacles like handles or cranks on the inside window casing. This is especially useful in rooms with a lot of window trim or decorative elements.
In high-traffic areas, it's generally discouraged to mount your window treatments on the outside of the window frame, as they can be damaged by frequent use.
Consider reading: Outside Ac Unit Fan Not Running but inside Is
Shades vs Shades
If you have beautiful trim around your windows, it's a good idea to show it off with inside mount shades. This style of mounting allows the trim to be visible and adds to the overall aesthetic of the room.
Inside mount shades are also a good choice if your windows are large and you don't mind cutting down on visible glass. This can be especially true if you have high ceilings, as the shades can help bring the eye down and create a sense of balance in the room.
Intriguing read: Window Shades for Sliding Patio Doors

But what if your ceilings are low? Don't worry, inside mount shades can still work well in these situations. For example, in a home with ceilings barely 8', inside mount shades can be used without sacrificing too much window height.
Outside mount shades, on the other hand, can make a window look bigger by mounting the shade or valance above and outside the window frame. However, this style of mounting can be tricky, especially if the windows are crooked or irregularly shaped.
Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when deciding between inside and outside mount shades:
- Beautiful trim: Inside mount shades are a good choice if you want to show off your trim.
- Large windows: Inside mount shades can be used if you don't mind cutting down on visible glass.
- Low ceilings: Inside mount shades can still work well in homes with low ceilings.
- Crooked windows: Outside mount shades can be tricky to install if the windows are irregularly shaped.
Design and Aesthetics
Design and Aesthetics is crucial when choosing blinds com outside mount. Outside mount blinds can be installed on the outside of the window frame, creating a sleek and streamlined look.
This style is ideal for windows with unique or irregular shapes. By installing the blinds outside the frame, you can draw attention away from any imperfections.
Aesthetically pleasing options include wood, aluminum, and vinyl materials. These materials come in a variety of colors and finishes to match your home's décor.
The slat width and material will also impact the overall design. Thicker slats can create a more dramatic look, while thinner slats provide a more subtle appearance.
You can also choose from various lift options, including cordless, corded, and chain lift systems. These options can add a touch of sophistication or whimsy to your window treatments.
Pros and Cons
Outside mount shades can be a great option for maximizing the view and creating the illusion of larger windows. By hanging them so that they just cover the window casing at the top, you can enjoy a larger viewing area.
Maximum view is just one of the benefits of outside mount shades. They also provide total coverage for light sleepers, blocking out any morning sun that might invade your room.
A unique perspective: Roller Shades for Gazebos
If you have windows and doors of different heights, outside mount shades can help trick the eye into thinking they're all equal. I used this trick in my Ultimate She Shed to make the windows look taller than they were!
To achieve this effect, make sure the top of the shades lines up with the top of the drapes, not the rods. This is a common mistake DIYers make, but it's an easy fix.
Here are some key benefits of outside mount shades:
- Maximum view: By hanging an outside mount shade so that it just covers the window casing at the top, you can maximize the viewing area of the window.
- Larger looking windows: Outside mount shades can create the illusion of larger windows.
- Total coverage for light sleepers: When lowered, an outside mount shade entirely covers all glass and the window casing/trim.
- Trick of the eye for awkward window heights: Outside mount shades can help trick the eye into thinking all windows/doors are equal.
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