Aluminium Bi-Fold Doors

Aluminium bi-fold doors are highly regarded for their durability, sleek design, and functionality. They offer a contemporary look with slim sightlines, maximising the amount of natural light that enters a space. These doors are known for their strength, allowing them to support large glass panes without compromising on stability. Additionally, aluminium is resistant to rust and corrosion, making these doors low-maintenance and long-lasting. When properly installed with quality glazing, they can also offer good thermal efficiency and security.

While bi-fold doors remain popular for many, there are a few reasons why some homeowners are exploring other options:

Space Considerations: Bi-fold doors require space for the panels to stack when opened, which may not be ideal for smaller rooms or patios.

Alternative Options: Other door types, like sliding patio doors and French doors, offer different design aesthetics and functionalities that may better suit certain spaces.

Complexity of Use: Some find bi-fold doors more complicated to operate compared to traditional doors, especially if they have more panels.

Cost: Bi-fold doors, particularly high-quality aluminium ones, can be more expensive than other types of doors, which may influence homeowners' choices. The price of this varies. Get in touch to get your free, no-obligation quote today!

Despite these considerations, bi-fold doors are still a popular choice for those looking to create an open-plan living space with a seamless indoor-outdoor flow.

Yes, aluminium bi-fold doors are generally more expensive than uPVC ones. The higher cost is due to the material's strength, durability, and the sleek, modern design it offers. Aluminium frames are thinner yet stronger than uPVC, allowing for larger glass panels and more natural light. Additionally, aluminium doors are more resistant to weathering and provide a longer lifespan. While the initial investment is higher, aluminium bi-fold doors can be a worthwhile investment for those seeking a premium look and enhanced durability.

While aluminium doors have many advantages, they also come with some disadvantages:

Higher Cost: As mentioned, aluminium doors are typically more expensive than uPVC or wooden doors.

Thermal Conductivity: Aluminium is a good conductor of heat, which means it can allow more heat transfer than other materials. However, modern aluminium doors usually have thermal breaks to improve insulation.

Surface Scratches: Aluminium can be more prone to surface scratches compared to materials like uPVC.

Yes, aluminium bi-fold doors can improve energy efficiency, especially when they are fitted with quality glazing and thermal breaks. Modern aluminium doors include features such as:

Thermal Breaks: These are insulating barriers within the frame that reduce heat transfer, improving thermal efficiency.

Double or Triple Glazing: High-quality glazing options help keep the heat in during winter and out during summer, reducing energy costs.

Weather Seals: Effective weather seals prevent draughts and minimise heat loss.

When these features are combined, aluminium bi-fold doors can offer good energy efficiency, helping maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and potentially lowering energy bills.

Aluminium bi-fold doors are generally very secure due to the strength of the aluminium frame and the availability of advanced security features, including:

Multi-Point Locking Systems: Secure the door at multiple points, making it difficult to force open.

Toughened or Laminated Glass: Enhances the door's resistance to break-ins.

Internal Beading: Prevents the glass from being removed from the outside.

High-Security Hinges and Bolts: Add extra protection against forced entry.

Choosing a high-quality aluminium bi-fold door system and ensuring proper installation are key to maximising security.

Aluminium bi-fold doors are available in a wide range of sizes, providing flexibility for different spaces. They can be customised to fit openings of various widths and heights. Commonly available sizes include:

Standard Sizes: Typically range from 1.8m to 4.8m in width, with a height of around 2m to 2.4m.

Custom Sizes: Many manufacturers offer bespoke solutions to accommodate larger or uniquely shaped openings, with widths extending up to 6m or more.

The number of panels and their configuration (e.g., stacking to the left, right, or both sides) can also be customised to suit the space and user preferences.