Best Bifold Doors UK

The Ultimate Guide to Selecting the Best Bifold Doors in 2024

Transform your living space and become the envy of your street with the perfect bifold doors that suit your home’s design. These versatile doors provide an elegant and seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, flooding your home with the natural sunlight we all long for in the UK.

Why Choose Bifold Doors?

Bifold doors are a clever solution for enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of your home. They create an open, airy environment and make your living space feel larger and more connected to the outdoors.

Supply-Only and Fully-Fitted Options

We offer a range of bifold doors across the UK, available in both supply-only and fully-fitted options. This flexibility ensures that you can find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.

Build your bifold door online below to see our prices and customise your ideal door.

Best Bifold Doors UK Overview

Importance of High-Quality Bifold Doors

Investing in high-quality bifold doors is crucial for several reasons. They offer increased longevity, better thermal efficiency, and a visually appealing design. These features ensure that your investment stands the test of time and provides substantial benefits.

Key Considerations for Selection

When selecting the best bifold door materials, such as aluminium or timber, it’s important to consider various factors:

• Performance Features: Assess the durability, weather resistance, and maintenance requirements of the materials.
• Configuration & Opening Options: Choose the configuration that best fits your space and usage needs, including the direction and style of the opening.
• Glazing Choices: Opt for double or triple glazing based on your insulation and energy efficiency requirements.
• Threshold Styles: Consider different threshold options for accessibility and aesthetic appeal.

Cost Considerations

Price is a significant factor when investing in bifold doors. Therefore, it’s essential to consider:

• Size: Larger doors may cost more but provide better views and light.
• Material: Different materials, such as aluminium or timber, vary in cost and benefits.
• Quality: Investing in higher-quality doors can ensure durability and energy efficiency.

Potential Returns

An investment in high-quality bifold doors can lead to potential returns of 5-10%, enhancing the overall value of your property.

The Importance of Bifold Door Quality

When it comes to bifold doors, investing in quality truly matters. High-quality bifold doors ensure durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal, making them a worthwhile investment.

Unlike traditional sliding doors, premium bifold doors offer enhanced longevity, slimmer sightlines, and better thermal efficiency. Plus, they often feature a more visually appealing design.

On the other hand, low-quality bifold doors can lead to performance issues such as broken runners, stuck locks, and dropped hinges. They also tend to offer reduced energy efficiency and a less attractive look.

Choosing a reputable brand and material, such as aluminium, guarantees long-term satisfaction and a solid investment. Remember, a well-made bifold door can significantly improve your home’s value and functionality.

Top 5 Bifold Door Brands to Consider in the UK

Exploring the wide array of bifold door brands on the market can be overwhelming due to the numerous makes and profiles available. It’s essential to investigate various brands to find the perfect bifold doors for your needs.

Each top bifold door brand offers a unique blend of styles, materials, and features, catering to diverse preferences and budgets.

Leading Bifold Door Brands:

1. Express XP88: Known for robust construction and sleek design.
2. Alutech: Offers excellent thermal efficiency and durability.
3. Sieger Systems: Renowned for modern aesthetics and innovation.
4. Origin: Popular for customization options and high-quality finishes.
5. Schuco: Favoured for advanced technology and superior performance.
6. Centor: Praised for seamless indoor-outdoor integration.

Alunet (Previously Alutech) Bifold Door Profile

First on our shortlist is the Alunet bifold door profile, offering an impressive blend of design possibilities and performance characteristics.

Key Features:

• Versatile Panels: Alunet external bifold doors feature two to fourteen folding panels, equipped with burglar-resistant hardware.
• Customisation: Available in various colours, finishes, and sizes, these exterior bifold doors can be tailored to fit any space.
• Sleek Design: Alunet bi-folds integrate a sleek look with minimal sightlines of only 107mm and market-leading sash sizes of 1200mm x 3000mm.

Performance and Compliance:

• Energy Efficiency: These bi-folds are highly energy-efficient, boasting U-values as low as 1.4 W/m²K, aligning with Door Energy Rated (DER) B to meet Part L requirements.
• Security Standards: Compliant with PAS24:2022, ensuring high security standards.
• Glazing Options: Offers glazing thickness up to 44mm.

Additional Benefits:

• Weatherproofing: Tested to BS6375 Part 1: 2009 standards.
• Durable Frame: Aluminium frame depth of 73mm, available in single or dual colours, factory powder coated to marine quality as per Qualicoat regulations.
• Heavy-Duty: Supports up to 120kg per door leaf, allowing for large multi-panel configurations and openings.
• Long-Lasting: Engineered for energy efficiency, durability, and security, with a 10-year warranty.

If you’re looking for quality, choosing Alunet ensures long-lasting performance and peace of mind. Discover why Alunet bifold doors are among the best on the market by reading our detailed review.

Express XP88 Bifold Doors

Our second choice for aluminium bifold doors is the Express XP88 bifold system. Despite its extra slim 88mm sightline, this ultra-robust aluminium bifold door system guarantees reliability and impressive performance throughout its lifespan.

Key Features:

• Versatile Design: The Express XP88 system supports significant construction possibilities, accommodating sash heights up to an impressive 2.8m.
• Enhanced Security:
  • Six-point locking on the primary master door
  • Four-point locking system on other panels
• Slim Sightlines: Features ultra-slim sightlines of just 88mm.
• Regulatory Compliance: Surpasses all requirements of Document L & Part Q, making it ideal for residential UK properties.
• Discreet Mechanisms: Includes a barely visible magnetic panel catch.
• Thermal Efficiency: Typical U-value of 1.3 W/m²K with 1.0 W/m²K glazing, with additional high insulation options available to lower U-values further.

Performance Ratings:

• Water Tightness: Class 8A
• Wind Load Resistance: Class C2/B2
• Air Permeability: Class 3

Despite being an excellent and very expensive alternative to traditional French doors, the Express XP88 bifold doors come with a 10-year warranty and a possible lead time of just two weeks, ensuring peace of mind and timely installation.

For more information about the different models of Express bi-folds and what makes them so outstanding, read our Express Bifold Doors review.

Sieger Systems Bifold Doors

Sieger Systems bifold doors are perfect for those who desire innovative design and exceptional performance. Here are some key features:

• Slim Sightlines: With sightlines of just 30mm, these doors provide a sleek and modern look.
• Capacity: They can hold up to 14 sashes, offering flexibility in design.
• Triple Glazing: Option for triple glazing enhances energy efficiency and insulation.

Benefits:

• Smooth Transition: These bifold doors create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces, allowing ample natural light to flood your home.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Experience the genuine wood-effect aesthetic of Sieger bi-folding doors.

For a hands-on experience, visit the Sky House Design Centre in Amersham, Buckinghamshire, where full-sized installations can be viewed by appointment.

Origin Bifold Doors

Origin Bifold Doors is a renowned company known for its exceptional aluminium bifold doors. Here are some key features that make them stand out:

Key Features:

• Nationwide Accessibility: Available through a reputable dealer network across the UK.
• Customisation Options: Offers a variety of customisation options, including slim 110mm sightlines, handles, running gear, and superior woodgrain finishes.
• Long-Term Warranty: Demonstrates a strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction with a 20-year warranty period for its bifold doors.

Benefits:

• Aesthetics: Emphasizes elegant and stylish designs that enhance the overall look of your home.
• Security: Focuses on robust security features to ensure your home’s safety.
• Performance: Known for high performance in terms of durability, energy efficiency, and smooth operation.

Origin Bifold Doors is a brand worth considering when selecting the perfect doors for your home, thanks to its blend of style, security, and superior functionality.

Schuco Bifold Doors

Schuco Bifold Doors stand out as an excellent option, celebrated for their renowned German engineering, slim sightlines, and high-end handles.

Key Features:

• Modern Design: Schuco doors boast modern lines and luxurious door handles, reflecting impressive craftsmanship that appeals to many homeowners.
• Versatile Models: Available in various models, including the Schuco ASS70 FD HD and the ASFD75, these doors cater to different preferences and requirements.

Benefits:

• Reputation for Excellence: Schuco bifold doors have earned a stellar reputation among glazing professionals, making them a reliable and stylish choice for your home.
• Customisation Options: Offers multiple design and customisation options to suit various aesthetic and functional needs.

Whether you prioritize sleek aesthetics, robust performance, or both, Schuco Bifold Doors offer a blend of style and reliability that can enhance your living space.

Centor Bifold Doors

For a luxurious and exclusive option, Centor bifold doors are an excellent choice. These seductive bifold doors are renowned for their unique manufacturing process and distinct aesthetic.

Key Features:

• Symmetrical Design: Ensures a balanced and elegant appearance.
• Concealed Hardware: Provides a sleek and seamless look.
• Built-in Insect Screens and Shades: Allows complete control of privacy and sunlight, adding convenience and functionality.

Benefits:

• Premium Quality: Centor bifold doors boast impeccable quality and appearance, making them a standout option.
• High-End Investment: Despite their higher price tag, the exceptional craftsmanship and design make them a worthwhile investment for those seeking a premium bifold door solution.

Choosing Centor bifold doors means opting for a combination of luxury, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, ensuring a high-end upgrade to your living space.

Best Bifold Door Materials

When selecting the best bifold doors for your home, one significant factor to consider is the various materials available, which also affect the cost.

There are 4 main types of materials used for bifold doors in the UK: aluminium, timber, composite, and uPVC, each offering advantages and disadvantages.

• Aluminium Bifold Doors: Known for their durability and lightweight construction.
• Timber Bifold Doors: Offer classic aesthetics and sound-dampening properties (if you can be bothered to look after them).
• Composite Bifold Doors: A recent addition to the collections, these combine the benefits of multiple materials, resulting in improved thermal efficiency and durability.
• uPVC Bifold Doors: Provide affordability and low-maintenance properties.

By understanding the pros and cons of each bifold door material, you can make a well-informed decision that suits your home’s needs, sizes, configurations, and preferences.

Aluminium Bifold Doors

At Prime Aluminium, we firmly believe that aluminium bifold doors are the pinnacle of aluminium door design, known for their durability, lightweight construction, and slim profiles.

Key Benefits:

• Durability: Made from robust material resistant to corrosion and rust, ensuring long-lasting performance.
• Low Maintenance: Minimal upkeep required, making them an ideal choice for homeowners seeking convenience.
• Customisation: Available in a variety of colours and finishes, allowing you to personalise the appearance to match your home’s design and style.
• Thermal Efficiency: Low U-values ensure excellent thermal efficiency, contributing to energy savings and a sleek, modern look.

Our aluminium bifold doors are designed to enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of your living space. Explore our range online at Prime Aluminium to find the perfect fit for your home.

Composite Bifold Doors

One of the latest innovations in door materials is composite bifold doors, which combine the advantages of multiple materials to enhance thermal efficiency and durability.

Key Benefits:

• Innovative Design: These highly engineered timber-clad aluminium doors offer a robust exterior frame, providing both strength and longevity.
• Versatile Customisation: Composite bifold doors feature versatile design options, allowing for customisation to suit your specific preferences and requirements.
• Material Combination: By combining the benefits of aluminium and timber, these doors provide an energy-efficient and visually appealing solution.

Composite bifold doors are perfect for those seeking a door solution that offers both performance and aesthetic appeal, ensuring a high level of satisfaction.

Timber Bifold Doors

Wooden bifold doors offer a classic, warm aesthetic that appeals to many homeowners. However, unless required by building regulations or driven by a love for the authentic look, these doors might be considered too much hassle.

Key Features:

• Classic Aesthetic: Constructed primarily from wood, these doors provide excellent sound-dampening properties and a visually pleasing appearance.
• Maintenance Requirements: Timber bifold doors require more upkeep than other materials, needing routine treatment and painting or staining to protect them from the elements.

Considerations:

• If you have dealt with wood before, you know the demands of maintaining its condition. Timber doors can be time-consuming and costly to keep in top shape.

Despite the maintenance requirements, timber bifold doors remain popular for those seeking a traditional and cosy feel for their home.

uPVC Bifold Doors

The most popular choice in the UK for budget-conscious homeowners, uPVC bifold doors are an affordable and low-maintenance option, making them ideal for practical solutions like patio doors.

Key Features:

• Affordability: Constructed from unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC), these doors offer a cost-effective option.
• Durability: Sturdier than timber, they also provide better sound insulation.
• Low Maintenance: Easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep.

Considerations:

From experience, we’ve learned that while uPVC bifold doors are often cheaper, they may lack the strength and durability found in other materials. They are more suitable for homeowners who are willing to compromise on longevity and stability for the sake of budget.

Benefits:

Despite these considerations, uPVC bifold doors are a practical and functional choice for those seeking a simple door solution. Their cost-effectiveness and low maintenance make them an attractive option for many.

Key Considerations When Selecting Bifold Doors

We hope our insights and expertise have guided you in selecting the best bifold doors for your home. But there’s more to consider when making your final decision.

Choosing the perfect bifold doors from Prime Aluminium involves several critical factors:

Key Considerations:

• Performance Features: Evaluate the thermal efficiency, security, and weather resistance of different bifold door options to ensure they meet industry standards and deliver the desired performance.
• Configuration and Opening Options: Explore various configurations and opening styles to find the best fit for your space and needs.
• Glazing Choices: Consider the type of glazing that will provide the best insulation and energy efficiency for your home.
• Threshold Styles: Different threshold options can affect accessibility and overall look. Choose one that complements your home’s design and functionality.

By thoroughly evaluating these factors, you can ensure that your new bifold doors not only meet your aesthetic preferences but also enhance your home’s overall appearance and functionality.

We’re confident that with our guidance, you will make a well-informed decision that you’ll be happy with for years to come.

Evaluating Performance Features and Standards

When selecting high-quality bifold doors from Prime Aluminium, it’s essential to consider critical performance features and industry standards. We ensure that all our products meet these standards:

Thermal Efficiency

• Measured in U-values: Indicates the amount of heat lost through the door material. Choose doors that meet or exceed the industry standard for thermal efficiency to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.

High-Level Security

• Security Tests: Ensure the doors have passed security tests such as PAS 24:2016 and meet the Secured by Design standard for enhanced protection against break-ins.

Weather Resistance

• Endurance Against Elements: This feature is crucial for external bifolds, ensuring they withstand various weather conditions, providing long-lasting performance.

Tailoring Configurations and Opening Options

When it comes to bifold doors, the configuration and opening options can significantly impact the functionality and aesthetics of your space. Depending on where the aperture is and what is inside or outside, multi-panel bifold doors are available in several configurations and opening options, allowing you to tailor them to your specific needs.

Some typical configurations we come across with our customers include:

• Straight-Line Systems: Ideal for straightforward, linear openings.
• Corner Systems with a Traffic Door: Provides easy access while maximising space.
• One-Sided Slide: All panels slide to one side, offering a clean and spacious look.
• Both-Sided Fold: Panels fold on both sides, creating a balanced and versatile entryway.

Choosing the correct configuration for your space is essential. Consider the available space inside and out, desired functionality, and the aesthetic appeal of the door. By exploring various configurations and opening styles, you can quickly and cost-effectively create a seamless and functional transition between your indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Exploring Glazing Options

When selecting bifold doors, glazing is a crucial factor to consider. Various glazing options are available, each offering unique benefits:

Types of Glazing:

• Double-Glazed: Provides good thermal insulation and sound reduction.
• Triple-Glazed: Offers lower U-values than double glazing, resulting in better thermal efficiency, though it is usually more expensive and may not be necessary for all homeowners.
• Laminated: Enhances security and reduces noise.
• Low-E Coated Glass: Improves energy efficiency by reflecting heat back into the room.

Glass Options:

• Clear: Allows maximum natural light into the home.
• Frosted: Provides privacy while still letting in light.
• Tinted: Reduces glare and solar heat gain.

Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of different glazing options helps you choose the best fit for your home’s energy efficiency needs and aesthetic preferences, ultimately helping to keep bills down.

Understanding Threshold Styles

Threshold styles play a critical role in the overall appearance and functionality of your bifold doors. Here are the main types available:

Weathered Thresholds

• Weathertight Seal: Features a small lip on one edge, providing enhanced protection against the elements.
• Ideal For: Homes that require extra weather resistance.

Non-Weathered Thresholds

• Flush Appearance: Offers a seamless look, often preferred for modern properties.
• Ideal For: Spaces where aesthetics are a priority and less weather resistance is needed.

Key Considerations

When selecting a threshold style for your home, keep the following in mind:

• Accessibility: Ensure the threshold allows easy access for all.
• Weather Resistance: Consider how much protection you need against rain, wind, and other elements.
• Aesthetics: Choose a style that complements your home’s design.
• Personal Preferences: Tailor the choice to your specific needs and tastes.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

To ensure the best performance and longevity of your bifold doors, it’s crucial to find a reputable installer and follow proper maintenance and cleaning practices.

Finding the Right Installer

• Reputation: Look for a trustworthy, reliable, and accredited installer with a proven track record.
• Experience: Ensure the installer has extensive experience in fitting bifold doors.

Maintenance and Cleaning

• Regular Maintenance: Helps prolong the lifespan of your doors and prevents potential issues.
• Cleaning: Regularly clean the tracks and frames to avoid debris build-up, which can affect the door’s functionality.

By taking the time to research and select the right installer and adhering to regular maintenance guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of your bifold doors for many years to come.

Choosing a Trustworthy Installer

When selecting a bifold door installer, it’s just as vital to find a trustworthy and experienced professional as it is to choose the best bifold doors. Here are some key factors to consider:

Key Considerations:

• Accreditations: Ensure the installer holds relevant industry accreditations, demonstrating their expertise and credibility.
• Portfolio: Review their portfolio of successful projects to gauge the quality of their work.
• Customer Reviews: Look for feedback on independent platforms like Trustpilot to see what past clients have to say.
• Brand Familiarity: Choose an installer who is familiar with the specific brand and product you’ve chosen, ensuring they follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Regular Maintenance and Cleaning

Smooth sliding bifold doors are incredibly satisfying, and to keep them functioning perfectly, regular maintenance and cleaning are essential.

Maintenance Tips:

• Clean the Seals and Tracks: Regularly clean to prevent dirt buildup and ensure smooth operation.
• Lubricate Hinges and Handles: Use silicone spray or grease to lubricate the hinges and handles, and wipe away any excess with a non-abrasive cloth.
• Open Fully Once a Month: Fully open the doors at least once a month to ensure all moving parts are adequately lubricated.

By following these maintenance and cleaning tips, you can prolong the lifespan of your bifold doors and prevent potential issues that may arise from neglect.

Considering Costs

The cost of bifold doors can vary greatly depending on size, material, and quality. Understanding what is included in the cost can help you make a well-informed decision when selecting the perfect new doors for your home.

Key Factors to Consider:

• Size: Larger doors generally cost more due to the increased materials and complexity in installation.
• Material: Different materials come with different price points. For example, aluminium and composite doors are typically more expensive than uPVC.
• Quality: Higher-quality doors often come with a higher price tag but offer long-term benefits such as increased energy efficiency, durability, and aesthetics.

Investing in high-quality bifold doors may cost more upfront, but the long-term benefits make it a worthwhile investment. By considering the factors influencing the cost, you can find the ideal balance between budget and quality for your home.

Price Ranges and Influencing Factors

Bifold doors come in a wide price range, influenced by factors such as brand, material, size, and installation.

Price Overview:

• Budget Models: Prices start from over £1000 for the most economical options, like uPVC bifold doors.
• High-End Options: Can reach up to £6000 or more for luxurious brands made from composite or aluminium.

Factors to Consider:

• Number of Panels: More panels typically mean higher costs.
• Material: Aluminium, composite, and other high-quality materials generally come at a premium.
• Build Quality: Superior build quality impacts the overall value and performance, often justifying a higher price.

Additional Costs:

• Heritage Style Astragal Bars: If opting for heritage style astragal bars, expect an additional cost of around £50 per bar.

By understanding these price ranges and factors, you can find bifold doors that offer the best value for your budget and requirements, ensuring a worthwhile investment for your home.

Maximising Your Return on Investment

Investing in bifold doors can significantly increase your property’s sale value, potentially boosting it by approximately 5-10%. Here are some key factors to consider to maximise your return on investment:

Key Factors:

• Quality of Doors: High-quality doors enhance the overall value and longevity.
• Materials Used: Durable materials like aluminium and composite offer better performance and appeal.
• Configuration and Opening Options: The right configuration enhances functionality and aesthetic appeal.
• Glazing Choices: Energy-efficient glazing options can reduce utility bills and improve thermal efficiency.
• Threshold Styles: Appropriate threshold styles ensure seamless transitions and improved accessibility.

By carefully considering these factors and opting for high-quality bifold doors, you can boost your home’s overall value while enjoying long-term benefits like improved energy efficiency, lower utility bills, durability, and enhanced aesthetics.

Final Thoughts on Selecting Bifold Doors

In conclusion, choosing the perfect bifold doors for your home involves carefully considering various factors such as quality, brand, materials, performance features, configuration options, glazing choices, and threshold styles.

By leveraging our expert research at Prime Aluminium and comparing the top bifold door brands and options, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your needs and preferences.

Key Takeaways:

• Quality and Brand: Ensure you’re choosing reputable brands known for their durability and performance.
• Materials: Select materials that offer the right balance of aesthetic appeal, durability, and maintenance requirements.
• Performance Features: Look for doors with excellent thermal efficiency, security features, and weather resistance.
• Configurations and Glazing: Choose configurations and glazing options that suit your space and enhance energy efficiency.
• Threshold Styles: Consider the threshold styles for accessibility and overall look.

Don’t underestimate the importance of finding a reputable installer and adhering to proper maintenance practices to ensure the long-lasting performance and appearance of your bifold doors.

By selecting the best bifold doors for your home, you can transform your living space, enhance your home’s aesthetics, and enjoy a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas.