Read on to find the answers to a number of frequently asked questions about bifolding doors:

 

Are bifolding doors energy efficient?

 

Bifold doors replace brick with a large area of glass, so it’s vital that they’re energy efficient. The solution lies in a special type of gas that provides optimum insulation. An inert gas, Argon is one of the gas variants used in the production of many glazed units.

 

The main purpose of filling the area between the panes with argon is to improve insulation, as it has a low conductivity. This means is doesn’t allow heat to pass through, keeping your home warm in winter and cooler in summer.

 

The energy efficiency of your glazing is measured by its U-value; the lower the U-value, the more efficient the glazing. The most energy efficient bifold door units on today’s market offer a U-value of less than 1.0W/m2K.

 

Are bifolding doors secure?

 

Security isn’t a concern with good quality bifolding doors. Any fears about replacing brick walls with a large expanse of glass can be allayed by ensuring your doors have locks that comply with the police-preferred “Secured by Design” standard.

 

The initiative run by the police and UK national standards body, BSI, recommends a modern cylinder with enhanced protection – this is indicated by a Kitemark and three stars on the unit.

 

Use insurance-recognised accredited locks, preferably with a five-lever key cylinder – it’s a known fact that the weakest point of the lock is usually the cylinder. By having cylinders installed that are resistant to snapping, drilling, picking and bumping you’ve immediately increased your security. Multi-point, integrated locking systems are strengthened with shoot bolts and hooked locks.

 

High-quality doors and hinges also improve security and it may sound obvious but the frame must be firmly fixed to the walls. Always use professional installers to ensure that all your security needs are met.

 

Are bifolding doors expensive?

 

Although bifold doors can be more expensive to install than sliding or French doors, it’s important to look at the prices in context. Using the analogy of buying a new car; if you’re looking for a basic model to simply transport you from A to B, you probably won’t want to pay a lot. However, if you’re looking for a car that’s a pleasure to drive, with modern features such as built-in sat nav, climate control, alloy wheels and heated seats, you might be prepared to pay that little extra. It’s the same with bifolding doors. Remember that you’ll be living with them every day for many years to come, so you may as well enjoy a little luxury.

 

In the longer term, bifolding doors that are highly energy efficient can help to reduce your heating bills. In addition, they will add value to your home should you decide to sell in the future.

 

Are bifolding doors a good idea?

 

Bifolding doors are a great idea when you want to open up your house to encompass a panoramic view of the garden; letting in more light and creating a modern alternative to sliding or French doors. They can vary hugely in quality and cost so remember the saying, “You get what you pay for”. They can add value to your home and improve energy efficiency and with a choice of materials, such as aluminium or wood, you can choose a frame option that suits your particular requirements.

 

In a nutshell, what’s not to like about bifolding doors?