Since they offer a chic and useful way to divide rooms within a house or connect indoor and outdoor spaces, Bi-Fold Doors have grown in popularity in UK homes. They are a desirable addition to both traditional and modern homes due to its streamlined form, easy operation, and capacity to save space.
We'll go over all you need to know about installing bi-fold doors in this extensive guide, including their advantages, important things to think about before installing them, a step-by-step installation tutorial, and practical maintenance advice for your brand-new doors.
1. What are Bi-Fold Doors?
Bi-fold doors are a kind of door mechanism that typically opens or closes by sliding along a track and folding in on themselves. These doors are popular as interior room dividers, especially in open-plan homes, but they are also frequently used as exterior doors that open onto patios, balconies, or gardens.
Bi-fold doors are often composed of wood, uPVC, or aluminum and are intended to provide clear views and a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor areas. They are the perfect option for areas where you want to maximize natural light and create a sense of openness because of their distinctive folding mechanism, which allows for a broad opening.
2. Benefits of Bi-Fold Doors
Bi-fold doors offer a multitude of benefits, making them a popular choice for UK homeowners wishing to increase the utility and beauty of their house.
Making the Most of Natural Light
Increasing the amount of natural light in your home is one of the biggest benefits of bi-fold doors. Light pours into the room from the wide glass panels, making it feel airy and bright. This is especially helpful in the UK, where there is occasionally a lack of natural sunlight.
Optimal Indoor-Outdoor Coordination
For homes with patios or gardens, bi-fold doors offer a smooth transition between the indoor and outside living areas. When fully opened, they provide an unobstructed view and simple access to the outside, which makes them perfect for entertaining visitors.
Design That Saves Space
Instead of requiring a large arc to open, bi-fold doors simply fold back on themselves, saving a modest amount of space. Because they offer a wide aperture without infringing on the surrounding space, they are a great choice for rooms that are small in size.
Design Flexibility
You can choose a bi-fold door style that matches the interior and exterior décor of your home because they come in a variety of materials, colors, and combinations. There is a bi-fold door to fit every style, whether it be sleek aluminum or traditional oak.
Improved Airflow
Bi-fold doors not only offer an unhindered view of the outside but also allow for optimum ventilation. You may open the doors entirely to bring in fresh air or partially open them for controlled ventilation, making them a versatile solution for enhancing indoor air quality.
Increased Property Value
The value of your house might rise dramatically with the installation of bi-fold doors. In the event that you decide to sell your home in the future, bi-fold doors will appeal to potential purchasers due to its contemporary, fashionable style and useful features.
3. Key Considerations Before Installing Bi-Fold Doors
It's important to take into account a few things before beginning the installation procedure to make sure your bi-fold doors are placed correctly and satisfy your unique requirements.
Place and Application
In what location are you going to put your bi-fold doors? Will they be used as inside room dividers or as an external entryway leading to a patio or garden? The location will influence the choice of materials, glazing, and insulation. External bi-fold doors ought to be extremely robust, resilient to the elements, and energy-efficient.
Support Structure
For smooth operation, bi-fold doors need a sturdy, well-supported construction. Reinforcement of the opening where the doors will be installed is necessary, particularly if you intend to install large or heavy doors. It could be necessary for you to speak with a structural expert to determine whether your house needs further support.
Construction Codes
Any major structural modifications to your property in the UK, such as installing bi-fold doors, might need to be approved by building regulations. When it comes to thermal efficiency, safety, and structural integrity, this is especially crucial for external doors. To make sure you comply with all requirements, be sure to check with your local council or a licensed contractor.
Features of Security
Security is the first consideration when installing bi-fold doors on the exterior. To increase security, look for doors with high-quality locking mechanisms, such as multi-point locking systems, and think about doors with laminated or reinforced glass. Make sure the material used for the frame is strong and unlikely to break.
Efficiency in Energy Use
High-efficiency bi-fold doors can assist stop overheating in the warmer months and lessen heat loss in the colder ones. Select doors with two or three panes of glass, and look for a door's U-value rating, which shows how well it insulates. The thermal performance improves with a decreasing U-value.
4. Step-by-Step Bi-Fold Door Installation Guide
Bi-fold door installation can be difficult, particularly when done externally. If you're not sure you can do it yourself, you should definitely engage a professional installation or closely follow the manufacturer's instructions. An overall, step-by-step installation guide for bi-fold doors can be found below.
Measure the Opening in Step 1
Measure the opening precisely where the bi-fold doors are to be fitted first. To make sure the area is level and even, measure the aperture's height, width, and depth several times. Ordering doors that fit perfectly is essential to preventing gaps and guaranteeing smooth operation.
Step 2: Get the Opening Ready
You must first get the opening ready before you can install the doors. Any current frames, doors, or wall portions may need to be removed in order to accomplish this. If required, use a steel or wood lintel to strengthen the entrance and give the bi-fold door system enough structural support.
Install the Track System in Step Three.
Installing the top and bottom tracks is the next step in operating bi-fold doors, which are operated by a track system. Ensure the tracks are level and securely fastened to the floor and ceiling. To ensure that the tracks are completely aligned, use a spirit level. Any misalignment could interfere with the doors' smooth operation.
Fit the Frame
After positioning the tracks, slide the door frame into the gap. There should be no gaps or jagged edges, and the frame should fit the aperture snugly. If required, use shims to reposition the frame before fastening it to the wall with screws or brackets.
Install the door panels in step five.
Now that the frame is in position, the bi-fold door panels may be installed. The first panel should be fastened to the frame first, and then the other panels should be added one at a time, joining them with the included hinges. Verify that every panel is level and that it is in line with the track.
Step 6: Modify the Doors
Check that the doors fold and glide smoothly down the track once all the panels have been installed. If the doors are difficult to open or close, you may need to modify the hinges or track system. For the ideal fit, most bi-fold door systems allow for fine-tuning.
Step 7: Handles and Locks Installation
Install the handles and locking mechanism last. Make sure the handles are positioned for ease of use and that the locks are both functional and safe. Installing extra security elements on external doors, such cylinder guards or anti-lift systems, is something to think about.
5. Types of Bi-Fold Doors: Materials, Styles, and Configurations
With so many different materials and styles to pick from, bi-fold doors let you create a look that both suits your functional demands and the aesthetic of your house.
Material Options:
- Aluminum Bi-Fold Doors: Popular for outdoor installations, aluminum bi-fold doors are renowned for their strength and durability. Because aluminum frames are thin, more natural light can be let in and larger glass panels can be used. They also withstand corrosion and require little upkeep.
- uPVC Bi-Fold Doors: uPVC doors are a low-cost, low-maintenance alternative with good thermal efficiency. Although contemporary uPVC frames are not as sturdy or slender as aluminum, they do come in a variety of colors and finishes that let you achieve a streamlined appearance.
- Wooden Bi-Fold Doors: Wooden bi-fold doors add warmth and charm to an otherwise classic or rustic design. Wood provides superior insulation and a classic look, but it requires more upkeep than aluminum or uPVC. Because engineered wood is more sturdy and less likely to warp, many homeowners choose it.
6. Bi-Fold Door Hardware and Accessories
Your bi-fold doors' look, usability, and security may all be greatly impacted by the hardware and accessories you select.
Essential Hardware:
- Tracks and Rollers: Smooth and easy door operation is guaranteed by top-notch track systems. Seek for long-lasting track systems and sturdy rollers that can support the weight of the door panels.
- Locks and Handles: Select chic handles that go well with the style of your doors and offer simple, safe operation. For further security, choose multi-point locking systems for external doors.
7. Maintenance Tips for Bi-Fold Doors
Regular maintenance is vital to maintain your bi-fold doors functioning properly and looking their best. Here are some essential upkeep pointers:
- Clean the Tracks: Debris, dust, and other particles can gather in the tracks and interfere with the doors' smooth operation. To avoid clogs, regularly vacuum or sweep the rails.
- Lubricate the Hinges: The rollers and hinges may stiffen over time. Use a silicone-based lubrication to keep them moving easily.
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid During Installation
- Inaccurate Measurements: Prior to ordering your doors, make sure you take an accurate measurement of the aperture.
- Inadequate Alignment: To prevent problems with door operation, make sure the tracks and door frame are precisely level.
9. FAQs About Bi-Fold Door Installation
Q: Does the UK need planning clearance for bi-fold doors?
A:Generally speaking, unless your house is in a listed building or conservation area, no planning clearance is needed.
10. Final Thoughts on Installing Bi-Fold Doors
Any home would benefit from the fashionable, useful, and space-saving addition of bi-fold doors. By following the right installation process and considering variables like material choice and security, you may enjoy the full benefits of these adaptable doors.
For more information about our interior or exterior doors or door accessories, give us a call at 01603 622261 and speak to a member of our expert team today or Email us at sales@doorsuppliesonline.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.