HOMEOWNER GUIDE · VENETIANS.CA
Inside vs Outside Mount Blinds: Which Should You Choose?
A practical way to choose where a blind sits, based on your window, trim and the look you want.
4 min read · Practical window advice from Venetians.ca
The mount describes where the headrail and blind sit in relation to the window frame. An inside mount fits within the opening; an outside mount sits on the wall or trim and covers the opening. Neither is universally better. The right choice depends on the depth and shape of your frame, how much glass you want to show, and whether you need the blind to cover the edges.
Choose an inside mount when the frame allows it
An inside mount keeps the blind contained in the window recess. It leaves trim visible, gives the room a tidy, built-in appearance and keeps the blind closer to the glass. It can suit deep, square openings with enough flat mounting surface. Our 2-inch slats need at least 2 inches of flat depth for an inside mount; check the entire area where the brackets will sit, not just the narrowest-looking lip.
Look for obstructions before deciding: handles, cranks, locks, a sloped sill, or trim that narrows near the top can interfere with the headrail or slats. Also consider whether the window is noticeably out of square. Measuring width at the top, middle and bottom reveals variations that may affect the fit.
Measure the opening, not the blind
For an inside mount, measure the inside width at three points and use the smallest measurement; measure height at the left, centre and right and use the largest. Enter the opening size as measured—do not subtract for clearance, because the fine inside-mount deductions are handled during production. See the step-by-step inside-mount measuring instructions before ordering.
Choose an outside mount for coverage or a shallow frame
An outside mount is useful when the recess is too shallow, the frame is uneven, or you want the blind to overlap the trim. You choose the area to cover, so you can extend beyond the opening to reduce edge gaps and create the impression of a larger window. It can also keep slats clear of handles or other features inside the recess.
Plan the headrail position first. Check that the wall or trim is sound, that there is room for the brackets, and that the blind will clear nearby doors, cabinetry and window hardware. Mark the intended coverage with painter’s tape; stand back and check both sides and the top before measuring. For an outside mount, measure the full width and height you want covered, including any overlap. The entered size is the intended finished coverage, so be deliberate.
A quick decision checklist
- Pick inside mount if you have adequate depth, a clear recess and want the trim to remain visible.
- Pick outside mount if the recess is shallow, obstructed or uneven, or if you want more overlap at the edges.
- Check each window independently. Similar-looking openings can differ by enough to change the fit.
- If you are unsure, photograph the frame and write down the three width and height readings before you choose.
Venetians.ca offers made-to-measure 2-inch white faux wood Venetian blinds in sizes from 12 to 84 inches, with eighth-inch fractions available. If any required dimension falls outside that range, do not round it into range; ask for guidance first. A printable measurement sheet helps keep room-by-room readings organized.
Confirm the details before you order
Review the mount type, width and height for every window before adding blinds to your order. The valance and returns are included. Shipping is free across Canada. Because these blinds are made to the dimensions submitted, careful measuring matters; see the answers about sizing and ordering if you want to understand what happens when a measurement is uncertain. When you are ready, configure your blind sizes and mount choices.
If the frame is unusual, pause rather than guessing. A clear photo, the measurements and a note about handles or trim help you get a useful answer. Choosing the mount first makes the rest of the order much simpler.
Order custom-made 2-inch white faux wood blinds · Browse all homeowner guides