Overlap Outside Mount Cellular Shades

Outside mounting is the solution when inside mounting isn't possible—or when you want to make a deliberate design statement. By installing the shade on the wall or ceiling above the window, rather than inside the recess, you gain several advantages: zero light leaks around the edges, the ability to cover windows with shallow or obstructed recesses, and the optical illusion of a larger, more substantial window. Our Overlap outside mount cellular shades are engineered specifically for this application, with extended brackets that project the shade forward to clear handles and cranks, and extra-wide fabric coverage that overlaps the window opening by 2-4 inches on each side. The headrail is concealed behind a decorative valance that matches your shade fabric or coordinates with your trim. Available on all cellular constructions, cell sizes, and opacities. Custom‑sized to your exact window dimensions. When inside mount won't work, outside mount elevates.

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Zero Edge Light Leak

The most common issue with inside‑mount shades is light leakage around the edges—especially when the window recess is out of square or has shallow returns. Outside mounting eliminates this entirely. The shade fabric extends 2–4 inches beyond the window opening on all sides, and the brackets mount directly to the wall. When lowered, the shade forms a complete seal against the wall surface. No gaps, no glow, no halo of light.

Window Enlargement Effect

By extending the shade beyond the trim, you visually enlarge the window. This technique is especially effective for small or awkwardly placed windows, or when you want to create a more substantial architectural focal point. Choose a valance that matches the wall color to blur the boundaries even further. Designers often use outside mounts to make narrow windows appear wider and short windows appear taller.

Ideal for Shallow or Obstructed Recesses

Some windows have recesses too shallow for inside‑mount hardware (less than 1.25 inches). Others have cranks, handles, or security bars that protrude into the opening. Outside mounting bypasses all of these obstacles. The shade mounts to the wall or ceiling above, clearing any obstructions. This makes outside mounting the default choice for casement windows and sliding glass doors.

Decorative Valance Options

Because the headrail is visible in an outside‑mount installation, we offer several decorative valance options to conceal it:

  • Fabric‑Wrapped Valance — Upholstered in your exact cellular fabric for seamless integration

  • Aluminum Cassette — Sleek metal housing, powder‑coated to your color

  • Cornice Box — Upholstered wood frame for added architectural presence

Each option provides a finished, built‑in look while hiding the operating mechanism.

Custom Projection Depths

Walls aren’t always flat—baseboards, trim, and tile can require the shade to stand off the wall. Our outside‑mount brackets are available in projection depths from 1 to 6 inches. You specify the clearance, and we fabricate the brackets accordingly. No need for improvised spacers or on‑site modifications.

Coordinated Return Panels

For a fully custom, furniture‑like appearance, we offer matching return panels that extend from the valance to the wall on each side. These panels enclose the shade on three sides, creating a clean, built‑in aesthetic. Return panels are available in fabric‑wrapped finishes or painted wood to match your décor.