How bifold doors work

Bifold doors are simply a way of accessing your outside space. So called because they fold multiple times, bifold doors use a concertina mechanism to open and close, folding multiple doors into a smaller space than conventional or hinged doors.

How many bifold doors should I have?

How many doors you have in your bifold door system will depend on the space available.

For smaller spaces, you may just have three fully opening bifold doors. These are popular as they give you the option to have one traffic door, which functions as a regular door on a day to day basis. But the traffic door can still be folded back with the rest of the doors when you want the whole space to open up.

For wide openings, as shown below, you could have up to six individual panels, opening in the middle where both sides fold back (two or three doors on each side), or opening from one side and sliding all the way across to fully open the doorway. Again, this set-up gives you the option of having one traffic door to use as a normal door when the bifolds are closed.

When to install bifold doors

Bifold doors are a modern contemporary alternative to traditional sliding patio doors, creating a seamless transition between inside and out.

However, there are a few things to consider before ordering yours:

• - Consider the wall where the bifold doors are being fitted. You may need to remove some of the wall if the new door will be larger than the one you’re replacing; this may impact the structure
• - Decide whether you would like the doors to open inwards or outwards. Exterior bifolding doors, where the doors open outwards, are often preferred as they do not take up valuable interior space when fully opened
• - Who will install your bifold doors? With so many factors to consider, it’s important to work with someone who has fitted bifold doors before and knows what they’re doing. Professional installation will save time and money in the long-term, giving you reliable problem-free long-term operation.

Will bifold doors add value to a house?

Some experts estimate that adding bifold doors to a house could increase the value by between 5 and 10%, making your house more appealing to potential buyers. They vastly improve living space inside and out, letting in more light, offering panoramic views and opening up the space to create more room.

Bifold doors can also improve security. While traditional sliding patio doors often have single point locks, bifold doors offer multipoint locking systems, providing more security and peace of mind.

Bifolds add the wow factor to any home, ensuring your property is presented in its best light, whether you’re selling or improving the property for you and your family.

Can bifold doors open from both sides?

If you have three or fewer doors, your bifold door system will fold back either to the left or right (you choose). But if you have more than three panels, your door system can open from the middle, folding back on both sides to create a wide opening in the middle.

Which bifold doors are best?

We love the ultimate exterior bifold door system from Henderson.

These kits are meticulously crafted using the PC Henderson Securefold Pro System and are centred around the Non-Mortice variations. Components are made from 316 marine grade stainless steel, making them corrosion-resistant and extremely hardy.

They are available in four finishes, giving you the flexibility to tailor the project to your needs.

Bifold doors are an increasingly popular choice to open up a space. Coastal Group can work with you to find the right configuration and finish to suit your project.

Get in touch to discuss the range of options and finishes and to order your bifold door kit.