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Benefits of Outside Mount Roman Shades
Among the various installation options, outside mount Roman shades offer several distinct advantages, including improved light control, increased privacy, and the ability to complement different window styles.
This article explores the many benefits, design tips, and considerations of choosing outside-mount Roman shades for your home.
8 Key Benefits of Outside Mount Roman Shades
1. More Flexibility in Installation and Customization
When mounting Roman shades outside the window frame, you can choose how far the shades extend. This allows for a custom Roman shade fit to match the exact dimensions of your window, integrating seamlessly with your room’s decor.
2. Protection Against the Elements
Outside mount Roman shades protect the window frame from weather elements like sun, rain, or snow. Using outdoor-rated fabrics helps resist fading from UV rays and offers durability against harsh conditions.
3. Concealment of Window Hardware or Imperfections
An outside mount can conceal these flaws if your window frames have imperfections. It covers chips or unattractive edges, providing a cleaner, more polished look without the need for expensive repairs.
4. Improved Safety and Practicality
Outside mount shades are safer for homes with children or pets since they keep cords farther from the window. They also make maintenance easier by allowing better access to the shades and windowpane.
5. Better Light Diffusion
By covering the entire window, outside mount Roman shades diffuse light more evenly, creating a soft, pleasant atmosphere in the room. They also help regulate room temperature by preventing drafts and reducing heat gain or loss.
6. Increased Home Value
Roman shades mounted outside improve the curb appeal of your home, creating a modern, sleek appearance. This adds sophistication to your home and can increase its perceived value, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
7. Improved Privacy for Windows
Outside mount Roman shades provide better coverage and privacy for ground-level windows. The shades extend beyond the window frame, blocking prying eyes while still letting in natural light.
How to Measure for Outside Mount Roman Shades?
Measuring the Width
To measure the width of the outside mount Roman shades, start by measuring the window opening from left to right. Take the widest measurement at the top, middle, and bottom. Add at least 1.5 inches on each side for full coverage and enhanced privacy.
Measuring the Height
For height, measure from the top of the headrail position to the top of the sill. If there’s no sill, measure below the window opening to your desired length. Add at least 2 inches for better light control and to ensure proper coverage.
Tools for Accuracy
For precise measurements, use a steel measuring tape. An inexpensive laser measure can also help make the process faster and more accurate, ensuring you get the right fit for your outside mount Roman shades.
Related Reading: Everything You Need to Know About Outside Mount Blinds and Shades
9 Design Tips for Outside Mount Roman Shades
Mounting Height
To make your window appear larger and more dramatic, mount your outside Roman shades several inches above the window frame. This creates an illusion of height and gives the room a more spacious and open feel.
Fabric Selection
Choose a fabric that complements your room’s style and color palette. Consider the texture, opacity, and privacy needs when selecting the fabric swatches . A heavier fabric can block more light, while lighter fabrics allow for softer, diffused light.
Valance Consideration
If the lift mechanism is exposed, adding a valance helps cover the hardware and enhances the overall aesthetic. This simple addition helps create a more polished, seamless look for your window treatment.
Width Calculation
For full coverage and better light blocking, measure the desired width and add a few extra inches on each side. This ensures the shade completely covers the window and prevents any gaps that may let in unwanted light.
Flush Fabric Alignment
When installing your shades, make sure the fabric aligns flush with the wall at the edges. This minimizes light leaks and provides a cleaner, more uniform look around the entire window, especially at the sides.
Layering Options
For maximum control over light and privacy, consider layering your outside mount Roman shades with additional treatments, such as sheer curtains, drapes , or cellular shades . This provides flexibility in adjusting light levels.
Minimalist Approach
For a modern, clean look, opt for flat Roman shades with simple fabric and minimal hardware. This streamlined design blends seamlessly with contemporary spaces and complements the room’s decor.
Large Window Considerations
For large windows, use multiple shades mounted side by side to ensure full coverage and a consistent appearance. This ensures the window is completely covered while maintaining a uniform look across the entire treatment.
Functionality
Choose a lift mechanism that suits your needs, whether it’s a traditional cord pull, a motorized option, or a cordless system for safety and ease of use. The right mechanism ensures smooth operation and functionality.
Why Choose Outside Mount Roman Shades for Your Home?
Better Light Control
Outside mount Roman shades provide excellent light control. By covering the entire window frame, they block out more light, creating a darker and more restful environment. This makes them an ideal choice for bedrooms or media rooms where light needs to be minimized.
Enhanced Privacy
Outside mount shades offer enhanced privacy, especially for homes near busy streets or close to neighbors. By covering the entire window, they prevent outside visibility and help maintain your privacy, making them perfect for areas where privacy is essential.
Creates the Illusion of Larger Windows
Outside mount Roman shades are a great way to make small windows appear larger. By extending the shades beyond the window frame, you create a sense of height and space, which can open up a room and make it feel more airy and spacious.
Conceals Imperfections in Window Trim
For windows with uneven or unattractive trim, outside mount shades are a simple solution. They conceal any flaws in the window frame, offering a cleaner and more polished look without the need for costly repairs.
Versatile for Various Window Sizes
Outside mount shades are versatile and work well with all types of window shapes and sizes. Whether you have irregularly shaped windows or large, expansive panes, outside mount shades offer flexibility in coverage, making them a beautiful and practical option.
Ideal for Layering with Other Treatments
One of the unique benefits of outside mount Roman shades is their ability to be layered with other window treatments. You can combine them with drapes, blinds, or sheers for a more personalized, stylish, and functional window design.
When to Choose Outside Mount?
Large Windows
Outside mount Roman shades are ideal for large or expansive windows. They help maximize the visual impact of the window, making it appear grander and covering the full window area for a more polished and dramatic look.
Architectural Detail
If your window has intricate trim or molding, mounting Roman shades outside the frame highlights these architectural features. It draws attention to the design and provides a more finished, elegant look.
Light Control
Outside mount shades are perfect when you need better light control. By extending the shade beyond the window frame, you block out more light, keeping your room darker and more private—ideal for bedrooms and media rooms.
Privacy Concerns
For maximum privacy, particularly in areas facing busy streets or close neighbors, outside Mount Roman shades offer superior coverage. They cover the entire window area, reducing visibility from the outside and keeping your home secure and private.
Outside Mount Roman Shades Compared to Inside Mount
Space and Light Control
Inside-mounted shades are tailored to the window frame, but outside-mounted shades provide extra space to block light along the edges. This is especially useful for rooms where light control is essential, such as bedrooms or media rooms.
Aesthetic Flexibility
Outside mount Roman shades create a bolder visual impact by covering the entire window area. They make a dramatic statement that inside-mounted shades simply can’t replicate.
Ease of Maintenance
While inside-mounted shades are easier to install in standard situations, outside-mounted shades offer easier access for cleaning and maintenance. Since they don’t obstruct the windowpane, washing the window is simpler.
Conclusion
Outside mount Roman shades not only offer practical benefits, such as enhanced privacy, better light control, and improved insulation, but they also bring a sophisticated aesthetic to any room. Whether you're dealing with non-standard window sizes or simply want to enhance your home’s energy efficiency, outside-mounted Roman shades are a versatile and stylish solution.