Few additions offer the elegance and functionality of bi-fold doors when it comes to transforming the look and feel of your home. These versatile wonders expand your living space and forge a seamless connection between the indoors and the great outdoors. Whether you’d like more natural light, a modern aesthetic, or a way to make your home feel more open and inviting, a bi-fold or multi-folding door is the perfect solution.
Bi-fold topics:
- Understanding bi-fold doors
- The benefits of bi-fold doors for your home
- Aluminium bi-fold doors
- Selecting the perfect style
- Energy efficiency and year-round use
- Maintenance tips
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Understanding bi-fold doors
Bi-fold doors are popular among homeowners looking to maximise space and light. These doors have multiple panels that fold back against themselves, creating an open, airy feel. Unlike traditional doors, bi-fold doors offer the flexibility to open up an entire wall, blurring the lines between your home and garden.
The beauty of bi-fold doors lies in their space-saving design. When fully opened, they stack neatly to the side, giving you a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This is especially appealing if you love hosting garden parties or enjoy the freedom of an open-plan living area.
With their large glass panels, these doors flood your home with natural light, making your space feel brighter and more welcoming.
Moreover, bi-fold doors are incredibly versatile, suiting various home styles from modern to traditional.
The benefits of bi-fold doors for your home
Thanks to their flexible design, bi-fold doors can be partially opened for a gentle breeze or wholly opened to bring the outdoors inside. This flexibility extends to accessibility; bi-fold doors provide a wider opening than traditional French doors or sliding doors, making them ideal for families requiring wheelchair access. They are a truly practical home improvement.
Investing in bi-fold doors can also increase the value of your property. Their ability to improve the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces is a selling point that can set your property apart in the competitive housing market. In 2023, Origin Global stated that bi-fold doors could increase a property’s value by 5% to 10%.
Furthermore, bi-fold doors can improve the overall flow of your home. By removing barriers between spaces, they create a more cohesive and open environment. This not only enhances your living experience but also makes entertaining guests a breeze. The doors’ energy-efficient properties help keep your home warm, reducing heating bills.
Aluminium bi-fold doors
Aluminium is a popular choice because of its strength and durability. It is also lightweight, boasting a weight saving of almost two-thirds compared to steel.
It’s also worth noting that aluminium frames have a thermal barrier, improving the bi-fold door’s overall efficiency.
Selecting the perfect style
At Thermaglaze, we fit bi-fold doors from the UK’s leading manufacturers – Korniche, Origin Doors & Windows, and Smart Architectural Aluminium. This allows us to fit with whatever style or architectural requirements you may have.
For a contemporary look, slimline frames provide a sleek, minimalist appearance. These doors maximise the glazed area, ensuring uninterrupted views. If a bolder look is required, we can offer bi-fold doors with a bulkier aesthetic.
Frames aren’t the only customisable option, as the colour range is extensive. From classic white or anthracite grey to bold hues that make a statement, you can find a shade that perfectly complements your home. Handles, too, come in various designs, from vintage to ultra-modern, offering another way to personalise your bi-fold doors.
Energy efficiency and year-round use
Energy efficiency is a key consideration when selecting bi-fold doors. A larger glazed area may raise energy efficiency concerns. However, modern glass is thermally efficient, so it can save money on heating bills in winter and maintain a comfortable temperature in summer.
Glass options
- Double-glazed glass. A double or triple-glazed sealed window reduces heat transfer and thermal losses, resulting in lower energy consumption, decreased energy bills, and less condensation.
- Tempered glass. This glass is stronger and more durable than standard glass, which is an important consideration for bi-fold doors.
- Tinted glass. We provide UV-filtered tinted glass to minimise unwelcome heat buildup during the summer months, ensuring the room’s enjoyment all year round.
- Laminated glass. A safety glass resistant to shattering, reducing the risk of severe injury upon breakage. It contains a plastic layer that enhances strength, dampens sound, and blocks UV rays.
Maintenance tips
Beyond cleaning the frame and glass with a gentle, all-purpose cleaning solution, bi-fold door maintenance is quick and easy.
The doors operate on a system of wheels and tracks, so keeping the tracks clear of debris buildup will ensure smooth opening and closing each time. When vacuuming the house, using an attachment to remove any track debris will work wonders.
Periodic use of lubricating oil on the lock aperture will keep the mechanism working smoothly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bi-fold doors are a versatile and stylish addition to any home, offering a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re looking to enhance natural light, create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, or improve the overall value of your property, bi-fold doors are the perfect choice.
At Thermaglaze, we understand that bi-fold doors can be a game-changer for your home. They offer a unique blend of style, functionality, and energy efficiency.
Visit our showroom in Sutton Veny to discover how a bi-fold door can transform your home. Our friendly team will be happy to explain the available options.
Contact us today to book a no-obligation consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between patio doors and bi-fold doors?
Patio doors typically have large glass panels that slide open and close on tracks. Bi-fold doors consist of multiple panels that fold back onto each other when opened, creating a wide and open entrance.
Are bi-fold doors energy efficient?
Bi-fold doors can be as energy-efficient as traditional doors if they are correctly installed and made with high-quality materials and glass. By choosing a reputable manufacturer and ensuring a professional installation, you can enjoy the benefits of bi-fold doors without sacrificing thermal efficiency.
Are bi-fold doors secure?
Choosing a bi-fold door that exceeds the PAS 24 is essential. This is a British Standard that measures door and window security.
What is a bifold door?
A bi-fold door is a type of door that folds in on itself, usually in a concertina or accordion style. It consists of multiple panels that slide along a track to open and close.
What are the benefits of choosing bi-fold doors in aluminium?
Aluminium bi-fold doors are known for their strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. They are resistant to rust, require minimal maintenance, and offer slim frames for a greater panoramic view. Aluminium is also an excellent energy-efficient material.
Are aluminium bi-fold doors customisable?
Yes, aluminium bi-fold doors are highly customisable. You can choose various sizes, colours, and finishes to match your home’s style.
Are aluminium bi-fold doors suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes. Aluminium bi-fold doors are designed to withstand harsh weather, from wind and rain to extreme temperatures.