What Are Inside Mount Shades?

Inside mount shades are window treatments that fit precisely within your window frame, creating a clean, streamlined appearance. Unlike outside mounted options that attach to the wall surrounding the window, these shades sit snugly inside the window casing, allowing your window trim and molding to remain visible.

The key requirement for inside mounting is having sufficient depth in your window casing—typically at least 1.5 to 3 inches depending on the shade type. This mounting style works particularly well in contemporary homes where minimalist design is preferred, but it's versatile enough to complement traditional décor as well. Inside mounting creates less light gap on the sides but may allow more light leakage at the edges compared to outside mounted alternatives.

Measuring for Inside Mount Shades

Accurate measurements are crucial for successful inside mount installations. To measure properly, you'll need to determine three key dimensions: the exact width inside the window casing (measured in three places—top, middle, and bottom), the precise height (measured left, center, and right), and the depth of your window casing.

Always use the narrowest width measurement and the longest height measurement to ensure your shades will fit properly. Most manufacturers recommend deducting a small amount (typically ¼ to ½ inch) from the width to allow for proper operation, but check specific guidelines for your chosen product. Remember that inside mount installations have very little room for error—even being off by ⅛ inch can affect functionality.

For depth measurements, be sure to account for any window handles or locks that might interfere with the shade operation. Most roller shades require at least 2 inches of depth, while cellular shades might need 1.5 inches, and wood blinds often require 3 inches or more.

Popular Inside Mount Shade Options

Several window treatment styles work exceptionally well with inside mounting. Hunter Douglas offers premium cellular shades that provide excellent insulation while fitting perfectly within window frames. Their Duette Honeycomb Shades are specifically designed to minimize light gaps even in inside mount applications.

For budget-conscious consumers, Blinds.com provides a range of affordable inside mount options including their Signature Light Filtering Cellular Shades. These shades feature a slim profile perfect for shallow window casings.

Roller shades remain one of the most popular inside mount choices due to their simple operation and clean lines. SelectBlinds offers customizable roller shades with various opacity levels and motorization options that work beautifully in inside mount applications.

For those seeking natural materials, bamboo and woven wood shades from The Shade Store provide texture and warmth while still fitting neatly inside window frames. Their custom sizing ensures precise inside mount fits for even unusual window dimensions.

Benefits and Limitations of Inside Mount Shades

Inside mount installations offer several distinct advantages. They create a cleaner, more built-in appearance that many designers prefer, showcase decorative window trim and molding, and take up less space than outside mounts—making them ideal for windows near furniture or in tight spaces.

However, this mounting style does have limitations. Inside mounting requires sufficient depth in your window casing, which older homes or specialty windows might lack. These installations may also allow slightly more light leakage around the edges compared to outside mounts. Additionally, inside mounted shades typically cover less of the glass area than outside mounts, which might be a consideration for rooms requiring maximum light control.

For windows with obstructions like handles or locks, inside mounting can be problematic unless you choose shades specifically designed to accommodate such features. Companies like Levolor and Graber offer specialized solutions for these challenging installations.

Installation Tips for Inside Mount Shades

Installing inside mount shades can be a DIY project with the right preparation. Start by gathering necessary tools: a drill, level, pencil, measuring tape, and screwdriver. Most manufacturers like Budget Blinds include mounting brackets and hardware with purchase.

Before installation, double-check your measurements and mark bracket positions with a pencil. Using a level is crucial—even slightly crooked brackets will be noticeable with inside mounts. Pre-drill holes to prevent splitting the window frame, especially with wood casings.

When installing, position brackets as instructed by the manufacturer—typically they should be placed 2-3 inches from each end of the headrail. For wider shades, additional support brackets may be necessary in the middle. Bali Blinds provides detailed installation guides specific to each of their shade types.

After securing brackets, test-fit the shade before final installation to ensure proper operation. Most inside mount shades either snap or slide into the brackets. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure smooth operation and minimal light gaps. For motorized options from companies like Somfy Systems, follow additional instructions for programming remote controls or connecting to smart home systems.

Conclusion

Inside mount shades offer a sleek, space-efficient solution for window treatments that complement rather than conceal your window architecture. While they require precise measurements and sufficient depth in your window casing, the clean, built-in appearance makes them worth the extra consideration during selection and installation. Whether you choose cellular shades for their energy efficiency, roller shades for their simplicity, or woven woods for natural texture, inside mounting creates a professional, designer-approved finish that enhances your home's aesthetic. Remember that professional consultation from companies like 3 Day Blinds can help navigate challenging windows or unique architectural features to ensure your inside mount shades function beautifully for years to come.

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This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.