Plantation Shutter Panels Explained
A plantation shutter is divided into one or more hinged panels. The number of panels affects the appearance of the shutter, how it opens and where the vertical panel lines sit in relation to the window.
In this article
Wider windows require multiple panels so that each panel remains within the permitted manufacturing width. As a general design rule, we suggest aligning shutter panel divisions with the main vertical sections of your existing window wherever practical.
How will my panels be configured?
A single panel can be hinged from the left or right. With two panels that meet together, the meeting edge is shaped to create a neat overlap and reduce the visible gap between them.
As you work through the guide, another option is a T-post, a fixed vertical member between panels. T-posts can be useful when you want the shutter divisions to line up with a vertical mullion in the window or when the overall width requires additional support.
Click to view expanded panel layout images.
How many panels?
The correct number is mainly determined by the window width and the maximum permitted panel size, but appearance matters too. Fewer, wider panels can reduce vertical lines, while tall windows can sometimes look more balanced with narrower panels.
When ordering several shutters, look at the original window layout rather than treating each opening as a blank rectangle. Matching the shutter divisions to the window often produces the most integrated result.
Ready to configure your shutters?
Once the measurements and configuration are confirmed, continue to the relevant product page.