Bi-fold doors have become more and more popular in recent years, and as a result, many people who are replacing their worn-out sliding doors and door accessories are choosing to use them instead of standard sliding doors. Not only do they look fantastic and allow the light in like regular glazed sliding doors, but they also concertina, providing you a considerably bigger aperture that is the ideal entrance or departure from your home into your garden or wherever else you install them. Bifold doors are a fantastic option, but they are more expensive than other door types, so you must be certain of what you want before starting your search.
Door Material
The manufacturing material is vital in all door kinds, but it is especially important when purchasing bi-fold doors since they concertina (fold up) every time the door is opened. Other door types do not fold up like this. Sliding over the top and bottom rails that are fitted, the doors mustn’t deform or twist with usage; otherwise, over time, they may become difficult to open and close. The doors must be kept in good condition. Because of this, it is recommended that you get bi-fold doors made of metal, particularly when the doors are going to be installed on the side that faces the outside.
Door Hinges
One of the most essential elements of each door’s accompanying door furniture is its set of door hinges, which is true of all doors. The weight of the doors is supported by the door hinges, which also ensure that the doors can be opened and closed with the least amount of effort possible. Investing in high-quality door hinges made of stainless steel will assist to ensure that each door panel remains in the exact position in which it should be, so facilitating easy and smooth operation. Because they are resistant to the elements, door hinges made of stainless steel are an excellent choice for bifold doors that open to the outdoors.
Pull Handles
By selecting bi-fold doors that include door pull handles on each panel, you will be able to open and close the doors with less effort, thereby reducing the strain that is placed on the hinges and bolts.
Door Locks
When installing a bi-fold door, one must ensure that door security is not neglected. Look for those that have deadbolt door locks that can be opened with only one key from either the inside or the outside of the building. Each panel of the bifold door should also have its door lock, which, in conjunction with anti-lift runners, helps to prevent the panels from being pulled out of their slots.
Tracks
Door tracks, which are quite similar to railway tracks, are an extremely significant component of bi-folding door systems. Not only should tracks be made of stainless steel, but also they should be laid flush with the flooring so that they do not provide a tripping hazard. This will keep the tracks from getting in the way of foot traffic. When choosing tracks, you should also make sure that they have some form of pre-attached draught excluder or insulation strip. This will not only minimize the amount of wind that enters the home, but it will also prevent rain from entering.
Ventilation Of The Air
The presence of air vents, which are typically comprised of a movable strip located at the top of each panel and permit ventilation of the space without the necessity of opening the doors, is a desirable attribute.
Double Glazing
If you’ve settled on installing bi-fold doors, one of the worst decisions you might make is to skimp on the quality of the double glazing you use to save money. Because there is a significant amount of glass, it is important to invest somewhat more money in quality glazing. Consider purchasing safety glass that has been strengthened so that it won’t shatter in the event of an accident or even if someone walks directly into it. If you want to insulate your home as well as possible, you should also think about using gas-filled glazing.
