Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount: How to Choose
Where your window treatment mounts — inside the window recess or outside on the wall/trim — changes the look, the light control, and how well it fits. Here’s how to decide.
Inside mount
An inside mount sits inside the window frame for a clean, built-in look that shows off your trim. Best when the window has enough depth and the frame is square, and the go-to for shutters. The trade-off: it needs precise measuring, and tiny light gaps at the edges are normal.
Outside mount
An outside mount installs on the wall or trim around the window, covering the whole opening. It blocks the most light (great for blackout bedrooms and media rooms), hides an out-of-square or shallow window, and can make a window look larger.
How to choose
Deep, square window + built-in look: inside mount. Maximum darkness: outside mount, or inside with side channels. Shallow/out-of-square window: outside mount. Want the window to look bigger: outside mount extended past the frame.
Why measuring matters
Both mounts live or die on precise measuring — down to the 1/16 inch. Too tight and it binds; too loose and light leaks. That’s why we measure every window professionally rather than have you guess, across plantation shutters, blinds, and shades.
Mounting questions.
Which blocks more light?
Outside mount — it covers the whole opening, so it’s best for bedrooms and media rooms.
Can shutters be outside mounted?
Usually shutters are inside mounted for a built-in look, but frame mounts are used when depth is limited.
Do I need to measure myself?
No — we measure every window precisely so the fit is right and light gaps are minimized.