If you’re thinking about investing in a new set of doors, you might be wondering what’s the difference between bifold doors and sliding doors.
Both types of doors have a well earned place in homes up and down the county — and it’s for good reason. They look aesthetically pleasing, add a high level of security and score top marks for energy efficiency. What’s not to love?
But when it comes down to which style of door is best for your home, there are a few differences to be aware of. To help you see clearly, here at Vision Doors & Windows Ltd, we’ve weighed up the differences, listed the similarities and spoken about the benefits of each.
What are bifold doors?
Bifold doors can be described as a set of glass panels that fold back on themselves, allowing you to open up a whole wall full of glass doors to the outside.
This makes them ideal for homes which have a large window or wall space to play with, but less room for a door to open, like a balcony or patio.
For years, bifold doors have proved to be very popular and it comes as no surprise. If you’re looking to create a seamless transition between your home and garden, bifold doors help you bring the outside in. And vice versa.
The benefits of bifold doors
Bifolding doors are a brilliant option from a security point of view. That’s because the aluminium doors are built to last (and last) and the locking system is spread over multiple points of the sliding track. Plus, good quality glazing is extremely hard to break. Other benefits include:
- Bifold doors can flood your home with natural light
- You can open up a whole wall, bringing the outside in
- They are very low maintenance
- They look aesthetically pleasing and are a focal point of a room
- They take up little space
- They can be hugely customisable — including colour choice and whether you want them to open into or out of a room, or fold to the left or the right
- You can fit them with integrated magnetic blinds — offering you privacy
- Bifold doors come with great levels of insulation
What are sliding doors?
As their name suggests, sliding doors are doors that slide horizontally back on themselves. They are a traditional option for any home and a design option which has stood the test of time. Sliding doors best suit homes where space is too limited for bi-folding doors. They can also provide a more affordable solution.
But that’s not to say sliding doors aren’t a good solution for a large expanse. They can reach huge sizes with four panes of glass and come with a variety of opening options. Like bifold doors, you can also customise them with a range of finishes available including white and the ever-popular grey UPVC.
The biggest difference between a sliding door and bifolds is that you’ll be unable to open up a whole wall to your outside space with the former.
The benefits of sliding doors
At Vision Windows & Door Ltd, all our sliding patio doors are internally beaded which increases their security. Other benefits include:
- Sliding doors can help with space maximisation
- They are aesthetically appealing
- They are also a great option from a security point of view
- They will help fill your home with lots of natural light
- They can provide a great means of ventilation — you only need to open them a little to let air in
- Sliding doors come with great levels of insulation
- They can be customised — there’s a range of colours and finishes available
Ready to upgrade your doors?
Here at Vision Doors & Windows Ltd, we are a FENSA approved installer of double glazed windows which come with an A-rated energy-efficiency. We offer a 10-year guarantee on all parts and labour and use our close-knit team of professional designers and qualified installers to provide you with the best possible service.
With more than 20 years’ experience in the industry, we are here to help you make the right choice for your home. Click here to get a free quote online or to speak to one of our design team today.