Doors and Shutters – Name of the vertical side member of a shutter frame In building carpentry terminology, what is the correct name for the vertical side member of a door/window shutter frame that carries the hinges and receives the closing stile?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Stile

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The parts of a door or window shutter (leaf) have precise names used in drawings, specifications, and site communication. Knowing the correct term for the vertical members helps in detailing hinge positions, lock rails, and edge treatments. This question asks for the specific name of the vertical side member of a shutter frame.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The component is part of the shutter (leaf), not the wall opening.
  • We refer to the two vertical members along the sides of a shutter.
  • Standard architectural carpentry terminology applies.


Concept / Approach:

A shutter is composed of stiles (verticals) and rails (horizontals), often with additional muntins or panels. The stile on the hinge side is the hanging stile; the one that meets the frame or the other leaf is the closing/meeting stile. These differ from elements of the opening or frame such as jambs or reveals, and from framing members like mullions that divide adjacent window lights.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify that the member is vertical and part of the shutter leaf → a stile.Distinguish from jamb (vertical of the door frame fixed to the wall opening).Distinguish from reveal (finished surface at the side of a wall opening) and mullion (vertical between separate window lights).Confirm that “post” is a generic structural vertical, not the shutter vertical.


Verification / Alternative check:

Standard carpentry references and schedules of joinery list stiles and rails as the primary shutter members; ironmongery (hinges, locks) is fixed to stiles and rails accordingly.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Reveal and jamb are parts of the opening or frame, not the shutter. Mullion is a vertical between window lights, not a shutter member. Post is generic, not a shutter component.


Common Pitfalls:

Confusing frame members (jambs) with shutter members (stiles); using the misspelling “style” instead of “stile”.


Final Answer:

Stile

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