Should Roller Blinds Be Fitted Inside or Outside the Window Recess?

If you are considering new roller blinds Grimsby, there is more to think about than simply choosing the colour and fabric. One question homeowners often ask is whether roller blinds should sit inside the window recess or be fitted outside it.

Both options can work extremely well. However, the best choice depends on your windows, the appearance you want and how much light you would like to block. At Humberside Sunblinds, our made-to-measure roller blinds can be tailored to suit individual windows. So, let’s look at the differences.

What Is an Inside Recess Roller Blind?

An inside recess fitting means the roller blind is positioned within the window opening itself. This tends to provide a very neat and streamlined appearance. As a result, it is particularly popular in modern homes where homeowners want a simple, uncluttered finish. It can also leave the surrounding wall free, which is useful if you want to combine your roller blinds with curtains. However, your window recess needs sufficient space for the blind and its mechanism. Handles, tiles and other obstructions also need to be considered.

What Are the Benefits of Fitting Roller Blinds Inside the Recess?

One of the main benefits is appearance. Because the blind sits neatly inside the window opening, it becomes part of the window rather than covering the surrounding wall. Furthermore, the window sill usually remains accessible. An inside fitting can work particularly well in living rooms, kitchens and home offices. It is also a good option when you want your windows to retain a clean and contemporary appearance.

There is one important consideration, though. Small gaps normally remain between the fabric and the sides of the recess because the roller mechanism is wider than the fabric itself. Therefore, an inside recess fitting may not always provide maximum darkness.

Why Fit a Roller Blind Outside the Window Recess?

With an outside recess installation, the roller blind sits on the wall above or around the window opening. The blind can then overlap the edges of the window. Consequently, outside fittings can provide greater coverage. This can help to reduce light entering around the edges of the blind. For this reason, an outside fitting may be worth considering for bedrooms and nurseries, particularly when combined with blackout fabric. It can also be useful if the recess is shallow or contains obstructions that make an inside fitting difficult.

Which Position Is Better for Blackout Roller Blinds?

This is an important question because choosing blackout fabric does not necessarily mean a room will become completely dark. Blackout material is designed to stop light travelling through the fabric. However, light can still enter around the edges of the blind. An outside recess fitting allows the blind to overlap the window opening. Therefore, it can often reduce these light gaps. Every window is different, though. Professional measuring and fitting can help you find the most effective solution.

What About Small Windows?

Roller blinds are particularly versatile and can work with many different window sizes. For smaller windows, an inside recess installation can create a tidy appearance without overwhelming the window. On the other hand, fitting outside the recess can sometimes make a smaller window appear larger because the blind covers a wider area. The surrounding space should also be considered. For example, nearby cupboards, shelving or furniture could affect how and where your blind can be installed.

Why Made-to-Measure Roller Blinds Make a Difference

Accurate measurements are essential whichever fitting position you choose. Even relatively small measuring errors can result in unwanted gaps or a blind that does not operate correctly. Made-to-measure blinds remove much of this problem. Your windows can be professionally measured before the blind is manufactured to suit them.

At Humberside Sunblinds, we manufacture our own roller blinds in-house. We also offer free home visits and fitting, making the process straightforward from choosing your fabric through to installation.

Should Roller Blinds Be Fitted Inside or Outside the Window Recess?

Ultimately, neither option is automatically better. An inside recess fitting is ideal if you prefer a neat, minimalist appearance. Meanwhile, an outside recess fitting can provide greater window coverage and may help to reduce light around the edges. The right choice depends on the window and what you want your blind to achieve.

Roller Blinds in Grimsby

If you are looking for made-to-measure roller blinds Grimsby, visit Humberside Sunblinds. With over 40 years of experience, we manufacture our blinds in-house and offer a huge selection of colours, fabrics and finishes.

Contact Us

Still wondering Should Roller Blinds Be Fitted Inside or Outside the Window Recess? Get in touch with Humberside Sunblinds. Our experienced team can arrange a free home visit, measure your windows and help you choose the right roller blinds for your home.