Bifold doors, also known as sliding folding doors have traditionally been used in interior locations. In the past few years’ new exterior bifolding doors have become available. They are an attractive alternative to the traditional sliding patio or French doors. This article will tell you why you should consider this versatile option. These doors are sometimes referred to as zig-zag doors. This provides a clue to how they work. They are usually made up of 3 or more glass panels that can be joined together in a number of configurations. If an odd number of panels are used a single one can be configured as a normal swing door. They are often used in Restaurants and cafes allowing the premises to be completely open to the street when the weather is suitable.

Bifold doors have much greater flexibility than sliding patio doors or French doors. They can be fully opened, completely closed, or partially opened depending on the amount of space required. Their ability to connect the inside to the outside is unsurpassed. For example they allow the whole of the back wall of a house to open out onto the garden. Doors are available in a range of materials including PVCU, aluminum, timber and aluminum-clad timber. The latter, although expensive, allows hardwearing aluminum on the outside and an attractive wooden finish on the inside. PVCU doors are usually the cheapest option but are limited in colours (white). bifold doors

Aluminum doors can be powder coated so are available in almost any colour or finish. Timber doors are usually made of hardwood or laminated timber. The latter is essential if the door were in a South facing, exposed or coastal position. In that location environmental extremes would cause hardwood doors to warp and malfunction. Any reputable bi fold door manufacturer will advise you of the best choice for your situation.