Here is something to consider when ordering plantation shutters - does it have an astragal stile? So, what is an astragal stile? It is an extra feature which covers the gap made as two panels meet. Some shutters come with a rabbited stile which is a slight overlap of the panels - sort of looks like the panels are notched. Other shutters come with neither - meaning a slight gap exists between the panels.
In our opinion the astragal stile provides the cleanest finished look, as any slight imperfection in the window or wood is impossible to detect. The astragal stile accomplishes this by doing the best job of all the options of hiding any light gap. Your eye will likely notice a light gap that is uneven - even if it is very slight and within industry manufacturing standards. Because of this, unless you have a very specific reason, you should seek a shutter with an astragal stile where the shutters meet in the middle.
Keep in mind, this astragal is really only needed where opposite side panels meet. You do not need an astragal where same side hinged panels meet. See diagrams below.
In our opinion the astragal stile provides the cleanest finished look, as any slight imperfection in the window or wood is impossible to detect. The astragal stile accomplishes this by doing the best job of all the options of hiding any light gap. Your eye will likely notice a light gap that is uneven - even if it is very slight and within industry manufacturing standards. Because of this, unless you have a very specific reason, you should seek a shutter with an astragal stile where the shutters meet in the middle.
Keep in mind, this astragal is really only needed where opposite side panels meet. You do not need an astragal where same side hinged panels meet. See diagrams below.
In the top view image above, that little lip you see in the middle is the astragal. In the image below, the 2 left 2 right configuration has an astragal in the middle and a rabbit stile where the panels bi-fold.
Of course, we would love to help you with your shutter project. Also, check out our online shutter cost calculator for a rough idea of what new shutters might cost.
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