Ordinarily bifolding doors or sliding folding doors were used in interior locations only. Now external versions are available They are an attractive alternative to the traditional sliding patio or French doors. This article will tell you why you should consider this versatile option.
These doors are sometimes referred to as zig-zag doors. Zig-zag is a fairly accurate descriptions of the doors working. The 3 or more panels are joined together in a variety of configurations. A single panel can be used as a normal door when the whole doors is made up of an odd number of panels. Street side cafes often use these kinds of doors to give them the flexibility to open the whole shop front when the weather is fine.
Available in the common white PVCU these doors are also made in hardwood, aluminium and aluminium clad timber. A very attractive option is aluminium clad timber allows a timber finish on the interior and the flexibility of aluminium on the exterior. PVCU doors are usually the cheapest option but are limited in colours (white). Aluminium doors can be powder coated so are available in almost any colour or finish. For timber doors the most common woods used are hardwood or laminated timber. Laminated wood construction is essential if the door were in a South facing, exposed or coastal position. In that location environmental extremes would cause hardwood doors to warp and malfunction. A specialist in bifolding doors should advise you on the best material to use.
Make sure that any bifolding doors are manufactured to the latest standards. They must be completely weather proof in even the harshest conditions. The thermal insulation offered by the glazing must be good. What type of threshold is required and where should the trickle vents (that prevent condensation) be located? The quality of the sliding mechanism and hinges needs to be high to prevent mechanical issues.
The media is showing these types of doors much more often than the past. They are often seen in home renovation or remodelling TV shows to provide that elusive wow factor.Their versatility in configuration and availability in various materials make Bifold doors a tempting option for anyone considering installing or upgrading a traditional patio door.
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