Smart Ways To Install Inside Mount Blinds For Perfect Fit

Inside mount blinds are window treatments installed within the window casing rather than on the wall or trim surrounding the window. This installation method creates a clean, built-in appearance that showcases your window frame while providing privacy and light control for your home.

What Are Inside Mount Blinds?

Inside mount blinds refer to window coverings that fit snugly within your window frame, creating a sleek, integrated look. Unlike outside mount options that attach to the wall or trim surrounding the window, inside mount installations sit directly within the window recess, highlighting the window's architectural features.

This mounting style requires sufficient depth in your window casing to accommodate the hardware and operating mechanisms of the blinds. Most window casings need at least 2-3 inches of depth for proper inside mounting, though the exact requirements vary by blind type and manufacturer. The precision fit of inside mount blinds creates minimal light gaps and offers a custom-tailored appearance that many homeowners and designers prefer for contemporary interiors.

Benefits of Choosing Inside Mount Blinds

Inside mount blinds offer several aesthetic and functional advantages that make them popular choices for modern homes. The clean, recessed installation showcases your window trim and molding, allowing architectural details to remain visible. This mounting style also creates the illusion of depth, making rooms appear more spacious.

From a practical standpoint, inside mounts take up less space than outside mounts since they don't protrude into the room. This makes them ideal for areas with limited space or where furniture sits close to windows. Inside mounts also typically allow for better light blocking along the sides of the window when properly measured and installed. Additionally, these installations tend to collect less dust than outside mount options since they're nestled within the window frame rather than extending beyond it.

Measuring Guidelines for Perfect Fit

Accurate measurements are crucial for successful inside mount installations. To ensure your blinds fit perfectly, you'll need to measure the exact width of your window opening at three points: top, middle, and bottom. Use the narrowest measurement to order your blinds, as window frames aren't always perfectly square.

For height, measure from the top inside edge of the casing to the sill at three points (left, center, and right), using the longest measurement. Most importantly, check your window depth by measuring from the glass to the front edge of the casing. Window depth requirements vary by product—cellular shades might need just 3/4 inch of depth for mounting hardware, while wooden blinds could require 2.5 inches or more.

Many manufacturers like Blinds.com and SelectBlinds provide detailed measuring guides and depth requirements for each product they offer. Some even offer free measuring tools to help ensure accuracy.

Provider Comparison for Inside Mount Blinds

When shopping for inside mount blinds, several reputable providers offer quality options with varying features and price points:

Provider	Selection	Custom Sizing	Warranty	Price Range
Blinds.com	Extensive	Yes	Limited Lifetime	$$-$$$
SelectBlinds	Wide	Yes	Limited Lifetime	$$-$$$
Hunter Douglas	Premium	Yes	Limited Lifetime	$$$-$$$$
Levolor	Moderate	Yes	Limited Lifetime	$$-$$$
Budget Blinds	Extensive	Yes	Varies by Product	$$-$$$$

Blinds.com offers an intuitive measuring guide and frequent promotions, while Hunter Douglas provides premium motorization options with their PowerView system. Budget Blinds differentiates with in-home consultations and professional measuring services, which can be particularly helpful for ensuring proper inside mount fit.

Most providers offer free samples so you can test materials and colors in your space before committing to a purchase. Many also provide mounting depth recommendations for each product to ensure your windows can accommodate an inside mount installation.

Installation Tips for DIY Success

Installing inside mount blinds yourself can save money and isn't as difficult as it might seem. Before beginning, gather all necessary tools: a drill, level, pencil, measuring tape, and screwdriver. Most blind packages from providers like Levolor include mounting brackets and hardware.

Start by positioning the brackets at the marked locations within your window frame. Ensure they're level and at the proper depth—typically, brackets should be set back enough that the blind won't hit the window when operating. Pre-drill holes to prevent splitting the frame, then secure the brackets with the provided screws.

When installing the headrail, insert it at an angle and rotate it into place until you hear it click or lock into the brackets. Test the operation before finalizing the installation. For cordless blinds from companies like Blinds Galore, make sure the lifting mechanism works smoothly throughout the entire range of motion.

If you encounter uneven window frames, shims can help level your brackets. Some providers like SelectBlinds offer installation videos specific to each blind type they sell, making the DIY process more approachable even for beginners.

Conclusion

Inside mount blinds offer a sleek, integrated look that enhances your windows while providing practical benefits like improved light control and space efficiency. With proper measuring and installation, these window treatments create a custom appearance that complements any décor style. Whether you choose budget-friendly options or premium motorized systems from providers like Hunter Douglas or Blinds.com, inside mount blinds represent a worthwhile investment in your home's functionality and aesthetic appeal. Take time to compare providers, request samples, and verify depth requirements to ensure your inside mount installation achieves that perfect, gap-free fit you desire.

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