Sliding vs Bifold Doors: What Are The Benefits?
At Custom Glaze, we install high-quality uPVC and aluminium double glazed bifold and sliding doors in homes throughout Milton Keynes and surrounding areas. Both door types are highly popular for their energy efficiency, beautiful aesthetics, ease of use, and powerful security features. But which one best suits your needs, and what unique benefits and features do each offer?
In this article, we will explore the differences between sliding doors and bifold doors and discuss the advantages of each option, helping you to make an informed choice that best suits your property.
What Is A Sliding Door?
As the name suggests, sliding doors slide open horizontally along a track. They are typically made of large glass panels that allow for maximum natural light and provide unobstructed views of the outside. Sliding doors are a great option for smaller spaces or areas with limited clearance, as they don’t require any additional space in front or behind them due to their lack of a swing arc.
What Is A Bifold Door?
Bifold doors consist of multiple panels, also known as leaves, that fold and stack against each other when opened. They are also made of glass, offering a similar level of natural light and outdoor views. However, bifold doors require space for the panels to fold and stack when opened, which may not be suitable for areas with limited space or where furniture or other objects may obstruct the opening.
What Are The Differing Benefits?
Accessibility
Typically, bifold doors are more wheelchair accessible and less of a tripping hazard compared to sliding doors, as they don’t have a large lip or track. This can be an important consideration for those with mobility challenges or for businesses that need to comply with accessibility regulations. At Custom Glaze, however, we’re proud to offer patio sliding doors that can come with a reduced threshold, creating a much more expansive and safe-to-use opening for those with wheelchairs or pushchairs.
Security
Bifold doors are capable of having multiple locking points at each hinge or frame, potentially making them more secure compared to sliding doors, which offer only one locking point. This added security provides peace of mind for homeowners or businesses concerned about safety. Additionally, the frames around each door leaf add more structural stability and resistance to unwanted intrusions and harsh weather conditions. We have two bifolding door options, aluminium and uPVC. Both of these can provide excellent resistance to bending, cracking, or swelling from intense rain or heat.
Thermal Performance
Sliding doors tend to be more thermally efficient than bifold doors as they have fewer frames. Their double or triple glazing can remain undisturbed, allowing for more heat retention. This means they can help to keep your home or business warm and comfortable and help reduce energy costs all year round.
No matter the choice you make, you can expect to see an improvement in your home’s energy efficiency. Our aluminium framed bifold doors come with polyamide thermal breaks to help the extra frames maintain good energy-saving levels, while uPVC frames incorporate pockets of air to insulate in a similar way to the double glazing.
Aesthetics
Both sliding doors and bifold doors offer a modern and sleek look that can enhance the overall appearance of your space. The large glass panels of both options create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor areas, allowing for a flow of natural light and creating a sense of openness. When it comes to the aesthetic offerings of each system, it really comes down to personal preference!
Conclusion
Both sliding doors and bifold doors offer unique benefits and can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your space. The decision to choose one over the other will depend on preferred aesthetics, available space for swing arcs, and threshold requirements, as each one can provide comparable energy saving comfort and security.
Here at Custom Glaze, a trusted double glazing company based in Milton Keynes, we offer a wide range of sliding doors and bifold doors in various styles and colours. With over 43 years of experience, we guarantee high-quality products, professional design and installation, and personal after-sales service.
Double Glazed Door Costs
Sliding doors and bifold doors are generally comparable in cost, but the price can vary depending on factors such as size, materials, and additional features. To make an informed decision, it’s important to consider your budget and weigh the benefits of each option. For a fast and easy quote for either door system, use our online quoting tool or speak to our staff about your desired door at 01908 650 140 or fill out or contact form and visit our showroom.