Inside Mount vs Outside Mount Window Blinds: Pros and Cons

If you’re a UK homeowner looking to revamp your window treatments, one of the key decisions you'll face is whether to choose inside or outside mount blinds. Both options have their own unique benefits and drawbacks that can greatly impact the overall look and functionality of your space - but which option is best for you? In this blog post, we'll dive deep into the pros and cons of inside and outside mount blinds, helping you make an informed decision that perfectly complements your home's style and meets your specific needs. Let’s dive in!

Inside and Outside Mount Blinds Explained

Before we delve into the advantages and disadvantages of each mounting option, let's clarify what inside and outside mount blinds are:

Inside Mount Blinds

Inside mount blinds are fitted within the window frame, providing a sleek and streamlined appearance. They sit flush with the window, creating a clean and unobtrusive look that highlights the window's architectural features.

Outside Mount Blinds

On the other hand, outside mount blinds are installed on the wall or ceiling above the window frame; they extend beyond the window's dimensions, offering a more substantial and dramatic visual impact. Outside mount blinds are an excellent choice for windows with shallow frames or those that require extra coverage, and work great with different types of motorised blinds.

Pros and Cons of Inside Mount Blinds

Now that we've defined inside and outside mount blinds, let's explore the benefits and drawbacks of inside mount blinds.

Advantages of Inside Mount Blinds

1. Sleek and Minimalist Appearance: Inside mount blinds offer a clean and streamlined look, seamlessly integrating with your window frames. They provide an uncluttered and modern aesthetic that complements various interior design styles.
2. Highlights Window Frames: By sitting flush within the window frame, inside mount blinds showcase the window's architectural features, such as intricate mouldings or attractive trim.
3. Allows for Multiple Treatments: Inside mount blinds leave room for additional window treatments like curtains or drapes, enabling you to create a layered and visually appealing look.

Disadvantages of Inside Mount Blinds

1. Requires Sufficient Window Depth: Inside mount blinds necessitate a minimum window frame depth to accommodate the mounting hardware. If your window frames are shallow, inside mounting may not be feasible.
2. Potential Light Gaps: Depending on the blind type and exact fit, inside mount blinds may allow small light gaps around the edges, which can be a concern for those seeking total light blockage or privacy.

Pros and Cons of Outside Mount Blinds

Let's now shift our focus to the advantages and disadvantages of outside mount blinds:

Advantages of Outside Mount Blinds

1. Versatile Mounting Options: Outside mount blinds can be installed on the wall or ceiling, making them a viable solution for windows with shallow frames or those that lack the necessary depth for inside mounting.
2. Enhanced Light Blocking and Privacy: By extending beyond the window frame, outside mount blinds provide better light control and privacy, especially if you opt for motorised blinds. They also minimise light gaps and offer more comprehensive coverage.
3. Creates the Illusion of Larger Windows: Outside mount blinds can make windows appear larger than they actually are, as they extend beyond the window frame. This can be particularly beneficial for small windows or those with unusual shapes.

Disadvantages of Outside Mount Blinds

1. Requires More Wall or Ceiling Space: Outside mount blinds demand additional space above or around the window frame for installation. This may not be ideal in rooms with limited wall space or low ceilings.
2. More Prominent Visual Impact: While outside mount blinds can create a striking visual statement, they may not blend as seamlessly with the window frames as inside mount blinds do. This can be a consideration if you prefer a more understated look.

Considerations for Choosing Between Inside and Outside Mount Blinds

When deciding between inside and outside mount blinds, there are several factors to consider:

Window Type and Size

Assess your window type and size to determine which mounting option is most suitable. Inside mount blinds work well for standard-sized windows with sufficient frame depth, while outside mount blinds are ideal for shallow or irregularly shaped windows.

Decor and Aesthetic Preferences

Consider your overall decor style and aesthetic preferences. Inside mount blinds offer a clean and minimalist look, while outside mount blinds create a more substantial visual impact. Choose the option that best compliments your interior design vision.

Maintenance Requirements

Both inside and outside mount blinds require regular cleaning and maintenance. However, outside mount blinds may accumulate more dust due to their exposed position. Consider your cleaning preferences and routine when making a decision.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, selecting between inside and outside mount blinds really depends on your specific window characteristics, design preferences, and functional requirements. By weighing the pros and cons of each option and considering the factors discussed in this blog post, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision that enhances both the beauty and functionality of your home.