Shutter Styles: Bi-Fold, Tri-Fold & Single

Your choice of window coverings can impact your home in more ways than you think. Shutters are a functional, stylish, and classic choice. They add beauty, privacy, and protection all at once and are available in a variety of materials.

However, not all shutters are created equally. A window fitted with bi-fold shutters will look totally different from one with single shutters, so it is important to consider your choice carefully.

Bi-Fold Shutters

Bi-fold shutters generally consist of two shutter panels with a single fold. Often, bi-fold shutters come in a set, so two of the panels fold to the left, and two of the panels fold to the right to expose the window.

They swing open from the inside, allowing you full access to your windows with ease. Bi-fold shutters don’t take up much space and are great for medium to large-sized windows. Bi-fold shutters offer a traditional, classic look and can be decorated in modern, contemporary, or old homes.

Tri-Fold Shutters

Tri-fold shutters, which have three shutter panels with two folds, are among the most compact ways to open shutters. In rooms that seem like the design would create a challenge for shutters — like with windows close to the corners — tri-folds are the go-to design.

Tri-fold shutters are also excellent for large windows, but maybe not for smaller ones as multiple elements can crowd the space.

Tri-fold shutters are less common than single panel or bi-fold shutters, so they can be eye-catching in a home. Something to note: there are more moving parts to tri-folds than traditional shutters.

Single Panel Shutters

Single panel shutters have one solid panel that does not fold and fits a single window or door. Some single panel shutters are fixed and do not move away from the window. Other single panel shutters are equipped with a hinge to be swung open.

​​Single-panel shutters are best for smaller windows and those of an awkward shape. In these cases, folding shutters can have the adverse effect of making the windows look smaller and more cluttered.

How to Choose Your Shutter Style

Each style of shutter offers different options, and more than one style may be a good fit for your home. So how do you know which to choose? When selecting your shutter style, you should consider several factors, including the design look, space, and function.

Design Look

In addition to the differences in functionality, different shutter styles offer different looks. A single-hinged panel provides a more modern look, while bi-fold panels provide a more traditional style. Even the most simple shutter installation adds a lot of personality to a room, so multi-panel installations can overwhelm a space if not designed correctly.

Space

While single panel shutters offer a modern look, hinged shutters require more space to open, which can be a challenge in small rooms. Bi-folding and tri-folding shutters are the best for space-saving, as they don’t need much space when folding them or when they are open.

Bi-folding and tri-folding shutters can also be a better option than hinged single panel shutters when it comes to decor. Folding shutters sit on the edge of the window without taking up any wall space so they won’t interfere with any design elements on the wall.

Function

If you plan to keep your shutter panels closed most of the time, you won’t benefit as much from the function of a bi-fold or tri-fold style. On the other hand, if you keep your windows uncovered most of the time, a bi-fold or tri-fold setup will be a better option for you.

If you like the look of single panel shutters, make sure to consider whether you want a fixed or hinged option. While fixed single panel shutters can still allow plenty of light in with adjustable slats, they are not comparable to the entirely exposed window that a hinged shutter can offer.

Another function consideration is how often you open and close your window coverings. Many homeowners with bi-fold and tri-fold shutters leave them open the majority of the time. If you plan to open and close your bi-fold or tri-fold shutters multiple times a day, you’ll need to consider the wear and tear this will have on the folding elements.