Bifold Doors

About Bifold Doors

Bifold systems are folding doors that allow homeowners to open up large areas in the house. It is a unique alternative to hinged doors, and are especially popular as the entry doors to gardens. Their design allows a fusion between interior and exterior space perfect for hosting guests in hot weather.

They're also useful as internal bifold doors. For example, these systems can temporarily section a room into smaller rooms for specific functions and uses. Larger living rooms are easily converted to home offices. 

Advantages

Bifold systems enjoy several significant advantages. They offer an aesthetic appeal that vastly differs from traditional hinged doors and French doors.

Unlike sliding doors and pivot doors, bifold models can be pushed to the side. They can compress together and reveal the space they were once hiding. It can tuck away neatly to allow for a more open room. 

They remove the barrier between the interior and exterior spaces when they're open, making them ideal for public functions like barbecues or dinner parties. When shut, they allow maximum natural light to enter the area, creating a bright, airy feel inside the room.

Types of Bifold Models

There are several types of bifold setups available to suit various styles and applications.

Concertina Doors

Concertina doors allow homeowners to fold a standard-sized entrance in half. This is especially useful for tight spaces where it would not otherwise be possible to access the room.

Corner Bifold Doors

Corner bifold doors offer an ideal solution for rooms with an l-shaped perimeter. Two sets can fold away or be joined together in the corner of the room, effortlessly eliminating the harshness of a corner space. 

Accordion Folding Door

An accordion door is a slimmer, narrower type of folding system for use as internal bifold models. Its smaller footprint makes it a more space-efficient alternative to more common folding systems.

Materials

Bifold systems are available in varied materials to suit any exterior or interior design, including aluminium, wood, and UPVC.

Aluminium

Aluminium bifold doors are made from durable, robust metals that offer an impressive, clean finish and stand the test of time.

Wood

Wooden bifold doors offer flexibility with the natural appeal of polished wood.

UPVC

UPVC bifold doors are made of rigid plastic. They're the most affordable option available, offering advantages without the price tag.

Installation & Operation

The installation of bifold systems is more complex than traditional hinged models. The precise installation will depend on the specific design, but each follows the same basic steps:

1. Assemble the components of the frame before securely attaching it to the opening in the room.
2. Fasten the hinges to each end of the frame.
3. Attach the carrier hinges and pivots to each of the doors in the set.
4. Then, mount these into the frame, ensuring that each can move smoothly along the track inside the frame.
5. Double-check that each section has been mounted in the proper order.

When opening and closing these systems, push them open from the middle of the frame. Moving these systems from the top or bottom will cause them to stick along the track. 

Do not push too hard on the system when opening it, either. Too much pressure could cause it to jam or even bend the frame's stuck, meaning it will no longer move. 

Factors to Consider Before Buying

It's essential to be aware that bifold systems aren't suitable for all locations and purposes, like front doors. 

In fact, they're better suited to larger spaces. The area to use them needs to be wide enough to merit this setup, with enough room at either side to store them.

If used for the exterior of a building, it's crucial to know bifold systems are better suited to warmer climates. This is because they do not provide the same degree of insulation as brick walls, which could cause heat loss.

It's also important to ensure that bifold setups are only installed on flat terrain. It may not be possible to install the system on or near a sloped terrain, as there needs to be sufficient clearance around the edge of the doors to allow them to fold correctly.

It may not be possible to install bifold systems in some locations unless planning permission is obtained first. It's important to check local planning rules before making a purchase.

Care & Maintenance

There are a couple of important steps to take to ensure that bifold systems continue to operate smoothly.

First, the rails along which the frames slide should be cleaned and lubricated regularly. This maintenance ensures that they can fold and unfold smoothly without being damaged or getting stuck. Lubrication also helps protect against rust developing inside the frame.

Second, when they are used for entry to an outside space, the bifold systems should not be left open for extended periods. If left open for too long, dirt and rainwater can get inside the track and frame, disrupting the movement of the doors and potentially leading to water damage over time.

If you need assistance to find the right bifold doors for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.