What are Bifold Doors?

Also known as Folding Doors, Bifold Doors are simply doors that can fold in or out to open up a space in a desired location. Interior Bifold Doors are useful for smaller spaces, such as laundry rooms, closets or cupboards, but Bifold Doors can also be used on exterior applications, where the doors open to connect the inside to the outside.

Both interior and exterior Bifold Doors offer amazing flexibility in design and are remarkably easy to operate, with a simple tracking system running along the panels. On exterior applications, it is vital that the doors are able to endure harsh weather conditions and there are British Regulations (e.g. weather rating, insulation, safety and security) that all manufacturers of Bifold Doors should comply with. Most recognised manufacturers independently test for air and water penetration resistance and thermal performance etc.

Panels are usually connected together in a train and can be joined together in a number of configurations. Bifold Doors are designed to come in pairs, with two doors folding to one side, or with four doors that split in the centre and have two doors folding back to each side, and so on. However the term Bifold is used loosely and Bifold Doors can usually be manufactured to provide an even or odd number of doors (sometimes referred to as MultiFold Doors). Where an odd number of doors are used, a swing door is possible.

Bifold doors provide the flexibility to be fully opened, partially opened or totally closed, depending on the amount of space required. Exterior Bifold Doors also provide natural light, and the ability to connect the inside to the outside. Bifold Doors are ideal for connecting living rooms, entertainment areas, gardens and patios and can be custom designed to meet individual tastes and specifications. They can also be used in restaurants and offices to create partitions and space.

Bifold Doors usually come complete with track and fittings, can be opened inwards or outwards and are suitable for left or right hand opening. Most manufacturers of Bifold Doors will provide bespoke systems for either commercial or domestic applications and will provide a number of different colours and finishes (primed surface, unfinished surface, wood tone colour, white colour etc). Bifold Doors can be manufactured in aluminium or timber, with a range of different styles (e.g. raised panel etc), textures (smooth, wood grain etc) and shapes (arched etc).

The style of doors can be chosen to match the style of an individuals home, whether it be modern, retro, colonial or classical – the doors should carry the style throughout and create more space than ever thought possible. Doors can be glazed with standard, toughened or laminated glass or double glazed, depending on individual taste. Use our Suppliers Guide to find your local supplier – they will help you chose the perfect Bifold Doors for your needs.