Bi-fold doors are a popular option for connecting interior and exterior spaces. This is because they allow for a seamless transition from one space to another while allowing for maximum visibility between indoor and outdoor areas.
Depending on the material and systems used, folding doors can be soundproof and weatherproof. This makes them a great option for apartments, where sound insulation is an important feature to consider.
When choosing the right materials for folding doors, it is best to choose a strong and durable material such as aluminum. This is because aluminum is known to last a long time and looks very good at the same time, making it an ideal choice for external bi-fold doors.
The frame: glass ratio is also an important consideration when selecting the right door for your space. The higher the ratio of frame to glass, the better it will be for increasing visibility and ensuring that the doors are weatherproof.
A well-designed system will also help to increase energy efficiency and make the entire installation look more appealing. This is especially true of insulated bi-fold doors.
If you have a kitchen that is quite small, bi-fold doors are an excellent way to increase the amount of light in the room. These doors can be glazed with large glass panels that let in lots of natural light, creating a bright and spacious feel to the space.
For a more modern take on the classic bi-fold door, you can opt for sliding doors that slide open to one side of the opening and fold up and stack against the wall when not in use. This will allow for the most use of your available space.
They are also an excellent choice for spaces that are not very large and do not have much natural light such as bathrooms, pantries and laundry rooms. They are particularly good in these spaces as they require a smaller opening than French doors and require less space to open.
Moreover, they are easy to operate and offer a number of benefits over other types of doors such as French doors. For example, they do not require a threshold that may allow for water to seep under them, making them suitable for patios and porches that have sloped floors.
When it comes to installing the doors, you can either choose to install them end-, centre or side-folding. This will depend on the layout of the opening as well as the type of door leaves you are using.
You should also consider the position of furniture and fittings in your home when deciding whether to have your doors fold inwards or outwards. This will depend on how much space is available to the side of the opening and how much storage space you need when the doors are closed.
In order to avoid dislodging the folding doors from their tracking system, it is recommended that you do not apply too much pressure when closing or opening them. This can cause the track to separate from the hinges and the doors will not fold correctly.