Modern bifold doors have transformed the way we interact with our homes. Creating striking open plan living spaces that seamlessly unite indoor and outdoor spaces has never been easier thanks to this innovative door style.
Neatly sliding and stacking to the side, we’re often asked what the best material for bifold doors is – aluminium, timber, or uPVC?… So, to help you decide which bifold door material is right for you, it’s time to explore the benefits of each one.
What are the benefits of aluminium bifold doors?
- Robust yet lightweight frames allow for wider views
- The slimmest bifold door frames available
- Precise mitre cornered design
- 2-8 panelled configurations available
- Unrivalled levels of weathering, thermal & acoustic performance
- Internal beading & multi-point locking as standard
- Scratch, UV, rot, rust and warp resistant
- Perfect for both modern & heritage styled homes
- Limitless spectrum of RAL colour options, as well as metallic, woodgrain & anodised finishes
- Minimalist hardware, furniture & fixing options
- Aluminium bifolds last twice as long as uPVC
- Aluminium bifolds are typically cheaper than timber
- Aluminium can be recycled infinitely with no loss of quality whatsoever
Ideal for large bifold door systems due to their strength, other than being installed incorrectly, there is little to fault with attractive aluminium bifold doors. Often viewed as a premium option, as you can see above, the initial investment is definitely worth it.
What are the benefits of timber bifold doors?
- Elegant and classic
- Correctly maintained, timber bifolds have an average lifespan of 60 years+
- The most environmentally friendly construction material (as long as it’s harvested from FSC certified forests)
- Timber removes CO2 from the atmosphere and stores it inside the wood
- Ideal for listed buildings and conservation areas where ‘like-for-like’ replacements are the only option
The main drawbacks to timber bifold doors are the maintenance they require and the thickness of their frames. Wooden bifolds need regular cleaning every 4-6 months and varnishing and refinishing every 5-7 years to retain their natural beauty. Plus, more often than not, bifolds are chosen to create sleek, modern aesthetics, however timber bifold doors feature wider frames that obscure the view you’re trying to enhance.
What are the benefits of uPVC bifold doors?
- Budget-friendly
- Energy efficient
- Low maintenance
Typically chosen in smaller homes, uPVC bifold doors are to be avoided for large bifold installations and where sleek sightlines are imperative. This is because the rigidity of uPVC makes it vulnerable to warping and premature wear and tear. With an average lifespan of 15-20 years, compared to aluminium and timber, uPVC bifolds can often look cheap and poor quality. Accommodating smaller panes of glass, they can’t reach the same panoramic views that aluminium bifolds achieve with ease either.
Bespoke bifold doors for discerning homeowners, architects & developers in Nottingham
At The Nottingham Window Company, we are firm believers that alluring aluminium bifold doors provide the best bifold solutions around. From flexible 3-panelled bifold doors designed for bijou apartments right through to breathtaking ‘Grand Designs’ inspired 8 panelled openings, contact us or book an appointment and let’s begin the journey together towards a memorable space for your family to work, rest and play in for decades to come.
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