A bifold door is a type of door made up of multiple panels that fold back on themselves, like a concertina. These doors are used to connect inside living areas with outdoor spaces like patios or gardens. When fully opened, they provide a wide and clear opening, letting in lots of light and fresh air.
They’ve become very popular in UK homes because they save space, look modern, and improve indoor-outdoor living.
How Do Bifold Doors Work?
Bifold doors are usually made of two or more glass panels connected by hinges. These panels slide along a track and fold neatly to one side. You can choose whether the doors fold inwards or outwards, depending on your layout.
Some bifold doors include a traffic door — a single panel with a handle — so you can open just one section like a normal door without folding the rest.
Main Benefits of Bifold Doors
Connects your home to the garden:
Bifold doors help blend indoor and outdoor spaces. When open, they create a wide entrance, ideal for summer gatherings and easy access to the garden.
Brings in more natural light:
Large glass panels let sunlight flood into your room, making spaces feel brighter and larger. They also improve ventilation when fully or partially opened.
Modern, stylish design:
Slim frames and clear glass offer clean lines and a contemporary finish. Bifold doors are available in aluminium, uPVC, or timber to suit different property styles.
Saves space:
Because they fold rather than swing, bifold doors are ideal for smaller areas where you don’t have room for a swinging door. They’re also great for open-plan layouts.
Good energy efficiency:
Most modern bifold doors come with double glazing, thermal breaks, and low U-values (around 1.5 W/m²K), which help keep homes warm in winter and cool in summer.
Secure and durable:
Bifold doors include multi-point locks and strong frames. Glass is often toughened or laminated, making it harder to break and increasing safety.
Adds value to your property:
Many homeowners see an increase in resale value after installing bifold doors due to their modern look and improved functionality.
Are There Any Downsides?
While bifold doors have many benefits, there are a few things to consider:
- Cost: Prices start at around £1,000 per metre. Installation costs vary based on size and material.
- Obstructed view when closed: Unlike sliding doors, bifold frames are more visible when shut.
- Cleaning: More panels mean more edges and tracks to keep clean.
- Space outside: When fully open, the panels fold to one side, which needs space on the patio or garden.
These points are worth thinking about when planning your home layout.
Bifold Door Materials
Bifold doors are made from several types of frame materials:
| Material | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminium | Slim frames, strong, low maintenance | Higher cost but long-lasting |
| uPVC | Cheaper, energy efficient | Thicker frames, fewer colour options |
| Timber | Natural look, suits older homes | Needs more care and regular treatment |
| Composite | Mix of wood and aluminium or uPVC | Durable and energy efficient, mid-price |
The right choice depends on your budget, maintenance needs, and house style.
Cost of Installing Bifold Doors
Installation prices can vary based on size, material, and glass type:
- uPVC bifold doors: From £1,000 to £2,000
- Aluminium bifold doors: From £2,000 to £4,000
- Timber bifold doors: From £3,000 to £5,000
For larger openings, costs will be higher. Always ask for a quote that includes installation, VAT, and any extra features like blinds or security upgrades.
Alternatives to Bifold Doors
If bifold doors aren’t quite right for your home, here are some alternatives:
Sliding patio doors:
These glide along a track and are great for wide openings. They take up less space than bifolds and offer large glass areas with fewer frames. New models include soft-close features and high energy efficiency.
French doors:
Two glass panels that open inwards or outwards. They suit traditional homes and cost less than bifolds. Ideal for smaller openings but need space to swing open.
Pivot doors:
These rotate on a central point and can be very large. They offer a bold, modern look but cost more and may require specialist fitting.
Accordion or stacking doors:
These work like bifold doors but stack more tightly and may open in a different direction. They allow for wide openings and are good for modern extensions.
Crittall-style doors:
Made from slim steel frames and glass panes, these offer an industrial look. They’re strong and stylish but tend to be heavier and cost more.
Each of these options has its own pros and cons. Your choice should depend on available space, budget, and the style of your property.
Building Regulations and Energy Performance
Any new bifold door installation must comply with UK building regulations. This includes:
- U-values for thermal efficiency
- Safety glazing for low-level glass
- Ventilation requirements
- Accessibility standards in some cases
To make sure your door meets the standards, use a FENSA-certified installer. They can self-certify the work and provide the correct paperwork.
Bifold Doors vs Other Door Types
Here’s a quick comparison table of popular door options:
| Door Type | Opening Mechanism | View When Closed | Space Needed | Cost Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bifold | Folding panels on track | Slightly obstructed | Medium | £1,000–£5,000 | Full-width openings |
| Sliding | Panels slide on rails | Clear views | Minimal | £800–£3,000 | Wide glass views |
| French | Swing doors | Clear when open | Needs clearance | £600–£2,000 | Traditional homes |
| Pivot | Rotates on axis | Clean and modern | Medium-high | £2,000–£6,000 | Statement feature |
| Crittall | Steel framed | Industrial look | Varies | £3,000–£6,000 | Stylish modern homes |
Conclusion
A bifold door is a smart way to connect your home to your garden. It brings in light, improves access, and creates a flexible space for everyday life or entertaining. Whether you choose aluminium for a modern look or uPVC for value, bifold doors are a strong investment.
If you’re unsure which option suits your space best, compare different materials and check out the alternatives. A good supplier or installer will help guide you through the options to find the perfect fit.
Get in touch with us here if you are interested in these.
