If you’re just starting out on your renovation or new-build journey, you may be a little unfamiliar with what options are available to you when it comes to glazed doors. If you’ve done some research you’ll know there are two types which are becoming increasingly popular, sliding and bi-folding. So what exactly are the differences between the two? We’ve got a rundown of the differences and some advice on choosing the right glazed door for you if you’re struggling to decide.
What are the main differences?
Bi-folding doors are made up of panels connected by aluminium framework that allows the doors to fold together in a zig-zag when fully open. They can be a little trickier to manoeuvre than our sliding door alternatives, but they’re just as robust and come with just as many colour options; the beauty of aluminium! Take a look here for our full range of bi-folding doors and to see some of the stunning projects we’ve worked on.
Our sliding doors are available with a choice of 2, 3, 4 or 6 glass panels, allowing you to select whichever option is best for your home. The guarantees are the same on both types of doors, so there’s no worry that one is less robust than the other. Sliding doors just offer that little extra ease when opening! More information on our sliding doors can be found here, including some stunning new products for 2016!
Which doors are best for me?
First consider the amount of space you have to work with – are you completely replacing a wall with glazed doors? Or are you just incorporating glazed doors within a smaller section of the wall? If the space you have is less than four metres, then bi-folds might be the best option. With spaces of this size, bi-folds look much more impressive than sliding doors when open, creating a real wow-factor and transforming the space completely. This helps open up the indoors to the garden or outdoor space, bridging the gap between the two.
Integral blinds are another consideration you need to factor in when choosing bi-folds; both stylish and functional, the benefits include no cleaning or maintenance as they are installed between the two glass panels that make up each glazed door. However it’s important to remember that with bi-folding doors comes additional framework which may detract from a seamless view you were hoping to achieve. If that’s the case, read on to find out more about sliding doors€¦
Sliding doors often look better when they’re closed as the large panels and minimal framework facilitate virtually uninterrupted views and a flood of light to enter the room. If the space you have for installing glazed doors is over four metres, we’d definitely recommend sliding doors, although it is ultimately your choice! Think of it as the wider the door, the wider the clear opening.
If you have any other questions about bi-folding or sliding doors, or any other glazing product for that matter, feel free to get in touch with a member of our team by tweeting @expressbifolds or giving us a call on 0800 121 4809. You really have to see the products for yourself to get a true feel of how they might look in your home, so visit us in one of our showrooms in Glasgow, Leeds, Harrogate, Romford or Redhill.