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What are Outside Mount Roman Shades?
Outside mount roman shades are fabric window coverings installed outside the window frame, mounted on the wall or trim above the window. These window shades combine the softness of drapery with the functionality of blinds, featuring horizontal pleats that fold neatly when raised. Unlike inside mount roman shades that fit within the window recess, these roman shades cover the entire window area including the frame.
This mounting style provides superior light control compared to inside mount options. These roman shades extend beyond window edges, preventing light leakage that can occur with inside mounted treatments. These roman shades offer installation flexibility since they don't require adequate window depth, making them ideal for windows with shallow frames.
Inside vs Outside Mount: Understanding the Difference
Understanding the difference between inside and outside mount helps you choose the right option. Inside mount roman shades install within the window frame recess, creating a sleek look that makes the window itself the focal point. This window treatment option works best when your window frame has sufficient depth and you prefer a minimalist aesthetic.
These roman shades install above and beyond the window frame, mounted directly on the wall or trim. This mounting method covers the entire window opening including the frame, providing complete light blocking and maximum privacy. These roman shades make windows appear larger and can create the illusion of taller ceilings when positioned higher.
The choice between inside or outside mount depends on your window frame depth, aesthetic preferences, and light control needs. Inside mount requires adequate depth within the window recess, while these roman shades work for virtually any window regardless of frame depth.
Benefits of Outside Mount Roman Shades
These roman shades provide superior light blocking capabilities since they cover the entire window surface including the frame. When fully closed, these window shades prevent light from seeping around the edges, creating darker environments ideal for bedrooms or media rooms. The complete coverage also ensures maximum privacy, blocking visibility from outside.
Installation flexibility makes these roman shades suitable for windows with minimal depth where inside mount options won't fit. These roman shades can be mounted on the wall, trim, or ceiling above the window, accommodating various window configurations. These roman shades make windows appear larger by extending beyond the frame edges.
Where to Use Outside Mount Roman Shades
These roman shades work exceptionally well in kitchens where they completely cover windows when closed. When raised, these roman shades provide maximum light and airflow, essential for cooking spaces.
Living rooms benefit from these roman shades by creating dramatic design statements that make windows appear larger. These roman shades hide imperfect window frames while working beautifully with bold patterns that complement your interior decor.
Bedrooms are ideal locations for these roman shades since they maximize privacy and light blockage for better sleep quality. These roman shades can be combined with blackout liners that block up to 99% of incoming light, creating dark environments even during daytime hours.
Bathrooms gain necessary privacy from these roman shades while still allowing filtered natural light into the space. Choose moisture-resistant fabrics and consider blackout liners for maximum privacy.
Customization Options
These roman shades offer extensive customization through fold styles, lift mechanisms, fabrics, and linings. Fold styles include flat fold for modern minimalism, classic pleated for elegant dimension, relaxed for casual appeal, and waterfall for soft cascading effects.
Lift mechanisms range from traditional cord lift systems to cordless options that eliminate dangling cords for child and pet safety. Motorized lift systems provide convenient operation through remote control or smart home integration.
Fabric choices include linen for natural texture, cotton for versatility, and polyester blends for durability. Linings range from unlined for light filtering to blackout options that block up to 99% of light.
FAQs
Can Roman shades be outside mounted?
Absolutely. Roman shades can be both inside and outside mounted, giving you flexibility based on your window frame depth and design preferences. Both mounting options provide unique appearances, so your choice depends entirely on your preferences.
How wide should outside mount roman shades be?
These roman shades should extend at least three-quarters of an inch on each side beyond your window frame for complete coverage. Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom of your window opening, using the widest measurement as your guide.
What is the difference between inside and outside mount roman shades?
Inside mount roman shades install within the window frame recess, requiring adequate depth and creating a sleek minimal look. These roman shades install above and beyond the window frame on the wall or trim, providing complete coverage including the frame.
What are the downsides of roman shades?
Roman shades can be more expensive than basic blinds, especially with custom fabrics or motorized lift mechanisms. The folded fabric can collect dust over time, requiring regular cleaning with a vacuum brush attachment. Some roman shades may have cords that pose safety concerns, though cordless options eliminate this risk.
Why choose outside mounted roman shades?
Choose these roman shades for superior light blocking, maximum privacy, and installation flexibility. These roman shades work for windows with minimal depth where inside mounts won't fit.
