Everything You Need to Know About Outside Mount Window Treatments

What Are Outside Mount Window Treatments?

If you are shopping for new blinds or shades, one question will pop up early: should you install them inside the window frame, or outside it?
Both ways work, but outside mounting gives you a different look and a bit more flexibility.

Instead of tucking inside the window, outside mount blinds sit on the wall or right over the window trim.
They are great if your windows are too shallow for an inside mount, or if you want a little more drama in your design.

And just so you know, even though the name says "outside," these blinds are made for indoor use. If you are thinking about outdoor shades, you will want something built to handle the elements.

Why Consider an Outside Mount?

Outside-mounted blinds can be a smart move for a lot of windows. They offer a few little advantages you might not think about right away.

Making Your Windows (and Ceilings) Look Taller

Want your room to feel bigger without knocking down any walls?
Try hanging your blinds a little higher than the window frame to create a bigger feel.
This simple trick pulls the eye upward and helps your ceilings feel taller while making the whole room seem lighter.

Throw in a set of long curtains, and you will stretch the look even more.
When you raise your blinds all the way up, you will get a full, open view without anything blocking the window.

Getting Around Awkward Window Features

Some windows have cranks, big handles, or thick trim that make inside mounting a hassle.
Outside mounting skips that whole problem.
With spacer blocks or extension brackets, you can bring the blinds out a bit, clearing any obstacles without a fuss.

Blocking More Light and Improving Privacy

Have you ever noticed light sneaking in around the sides of inside-mounted blinds?
It can be distracting, especially in bedrooms or living rooms.

Outside mounts are usually ordered wider and taller than the window, so they do a better job blocking those gaps.
Instead of sharp beams of sunlight peeking through, you get a softer, more even spread of light across the space.
It also helps keep your room more private.

Should You Add a Valance?

Thinking about giving your blinds a more polished look? A valance can be a great finishing touch. It neatly covers the hardware up top, making the whole window look cleaner and more put together.

Depending on what style you pick, the valance could be simple or more decorative. Roller shades often come with a cassette valance that hides the rolled-up fabric neatly.
Wood and faux wood blinds usually have matching valances made from the same material.
Roman shades give you a choice: you can go for a valance, or pick the "waterfall" style that skips it for a sleeker look.

How Outside Mounts Stack Up Against Inside Mounts

Choosing between inside and outside mount comes down to what fits your windows and the vibe you are aiming for.

Both styles have their place. Sometimes it just comes down to what will look better in your room.

How to Measure for Outside Mount Window Treatments

Measuring for an outside mount is not hard at all. Here is how to do it:

1. Width: Measure the space you want to cover. Add a few extra inches beyond the sides of the window to block more light and get a better look.
2. Height: Measure from where you plan to install the headrail down to where you want the blinds to end.
3. Double-Check: Always double-check your measurements before placing your order.

Need a little more help? Check out our full Measuring Guides.

Installing Outside Mount Blinds

Installing outside-mounted blinds is pretty straightforward.
Most blinds use universal brackets. You just mount them a little differently than you would for an inside mount.
Sometimes you will rotate the bracket or use different holes depending on where you are attaching it.

Products like wood blinds or woven shades might have slightly different hardware, but it all works the same basic way.
Following the included instructions will keep things simple. 

Final Thoughts

Outside mount window treatments are a great way to add style and function at the same time.
They are especially useful for windows with shallow frames, tricky handles, or just when you want a bigger visual impact.

At ShadeIt, we make it easy to find the perfect blinds or shades to fit your home and your style.

Take a look at our latest collections. Your windows will thank you.