Roman shades instill a timeless elegance into your home. With its exceptional fabrics and customizable features, it’s easy to find a roman shade that complements your interior. As you go throughout the shopping process, you’ll ask yourself: should roman shades be inside or outside? This question refers to the mount type, and in this blog post, we’ll go over the difference between an inside mount and outside mount.

What Does Inside Mount Mean?
Selecting an inside mount means the window coverings will be mounted and hung on the inside of the window frame or box.

Ideally, your window box is deep enough for an inside mount so that the window covering will sit flush with the frame, creating a streamlined look. This mount option is not recommended for shallow windowsills.
What Does Outside Mount Mean?
An outside mount does not mean that the roman shade, or any window covering, will be mounted on the outside of the house. Roman shades, especially with their fabric, will not withstand outdoor weather.

An outside mount means that the window coverings will be mounted and hung outside of the window frame, making it ideal for shallow windowsills.
Should Roman Shades be Mounted Inside or Outside?
Both mount types work for roman shades. It depends on the practicality of your window box and what you’re hoping to achieve. Here are some questions to determine the best type for you.
What is the depth of your window box?
At SelectBlinds, we typically recommend at least 1 1/2″ of depth within the window for an inside mount; however the minimum requirement changes per product and per lift style. Be sure to thoroughly read your product’s Specifications tab for more details.
How much light control do you want?
As with any inside mounted window coverings, there is often a sliver of light on the sides and bottom of the window. If you want to avoid having that extra light, you can add curtains or choose an outside mount. An outside mounted roman shade allows for more complete light blockage by reducing the halo effect. An outside mount can also offer an illusion of taller or wider windows.


How do your windows open?
An inside mounted shade would not give enough space for a window that tilts forward to open, so an outside mount would be a better option. A window that slides open is better suited for an inside mounted window covering, but it can have either type.
Do you want a no drill headrail?
If the answer is yes, then you must choose an inside mount and make sure there’s 2 1/2″ of depth to install the no drill blinds headrail. We do not offer no drill blinds that can be outside mounted at this time. Also, no drill blinds are not recommended for use with PVC window frames.
How to Install Inside Mounted Roman Shades
How to Install Outside Mounted Roman Shades
Shop Roman Shades
Roman shades may be just what you need to refresh your home! Remember to order samples to see how the colors and fabrics will look together. At SelectBlinds, you can order up to 15 free samples per day! If you have any questions, chat with one of our Design Consultants at (888) 257-1840. They’re easy to talk to!
