Commercial Stile and Rail wood doors are available in many design options. There are some typical designs that most manufacturers offer and then there are custom options that require a little more coordination. Just because something can be drawn does not mean it can be fabricated. Keep this in mind as you determine the look you want for commercial stile and rail wood doors.

(Images and info used from WDMA I.S. 6A 2008 Stile and Rail wood doors)

Stile and Rail Wood Door Terminology

First, let’s mention some important terminology that is important when talking about the design of stile and rail wood doors.

  • Rail – A horizontal structural member of a stile and rail wood door. Fits between stiles.
  • Bottom Rail – The bottom rail of a stile and rail wood door.
  • Lock Rail – An intermediate rail located at approximately adjacent to the lock.
  • Top Rail – The uppermost rail of a stile and rail wood door.
  • Intermediate Rail – A rail, other than the top and bottom rail, used to separate panels, or to separate panels from glazing materials in a combination door. Also referred to as “cross rail”.
  • Stile – The outermost vertical member of a stile and rail wood door.
  • Mullion – A vertical member used to separate panels.
  • Muntin – A short bar, either horizontal or vertical, used to separate individual pieces of panels or glazing, but which does not extend the full width or length of the glazed opening.

Standard Stile and Rail Wood Door Designs

A typical stile and rail wood door will have any from 1 to 5+ panels. The sticking material is used to create different sizes and layouts of panels. The panels themselves can be flat or raised panels with different bevel options. Depending on the manufacturer, any or all of these particular designs may be available as well as others not shown below.

In many cases, glass can be used in place of the wood panels on wood doors. Below you’ll see some of the most common panel designs for beveling and sticking options.

Panels:

Sticking Options:

Conclusion

There are many options available from wood door manufacturers to achieve the look you want for stile and rail wood doors. There are some limitations and other things to consider besides just the appearance of the door. Performance and function are also necessary when selecting wood doors. Don’t forget to consider the type of hardware that will be installed on the doors. This can help you in deciding certain dimensions for mortised or surface applied hardware. To learn more or to request an estimate, contact Beacon Commercial Door & Lock today!