Folding doors are a great way to make your living room more spacious and brighter. You can also use folding doors to create internal room dividers. These doors can open up your home to fresh air and views. They also add style to your apartment interior.
There are a wide range of sizes and options for folding doors. Most are made of aluminum or upvc. Some folding doors are also made of engineered wood. Engineered wood is a type of wood that is produced by binding layers of wood together with adhesive. It is more durable than natural wood and can last longer.
Bi-fold doors are a popular choice for homeowners. They offer a stylish, modern alternative to French or sliding doors. The bi-folding design allows for a smooth transition from the indoor to outdoor environment. This makes it easier to keep your home clean. In addition, these doors allow for seamless indoor/outdoor entertainment.
Another advantage of folding doors is their flexibility. When you are able to fold the panels back, the door can be left open to let in light and air. This reduces the need for artificial lighting and improves air circulation. Several of these folding door systems can extend almost the entire width of a wall. Therefore, they are often used in high-end residences.
Many of the top folding doors manufacturers have a variety of finishes. Andersen, for example, offers more than 50 powder-coated color options. The company also has a history of manufacturing quality products. Plus, the doors come with a 10-year guarantee.
If you’re looking to install a folding door, consider whether it is NAFS certified. Whether or not a product is certified will determine its labeled rating.
If a product is NAFS certified, it has undergone tests to ensure it meets standards for structural resistance to severe wind storms, water resistance, and barriers to air infiltration. Additionally, it is also tested for forced entry resistance.
However, if you’re not sure, check with the building code for your jurisdiction. Some jurisdictions accept folding door product positions, while others require a lab test. A few jurisdictions also require the product to be certified to specific NAFS standards.
While you can’t be sure about a product’s certification until it is installed, it is possible to gain additional assurance by enrolling it in a third-party certification program. These programs verify the manufacturer’s labeled product ratings and provide an additional layer of assurance to buyers.
Other specialty products can be certified for specific NAFS tests. For instance, if a folding door is designed to float, it will require additional testing to ensure that the device doesn’t become unbalanced and dislodged. Also, it must be rated for forced entry and environmental separation. Alternatively, it can be a site-built product. Site-built products are custom-built and have unique features.
If you’re not sure about a particular manufacturer, you can check with the building code for your jurisdiction. If you’re in Canada, you may also want to consult the BC Building Safety and Standards Branch.