Find the answers to your aluminium glazing questions
- 01
Depending on the system, bifolds can span over 6 metres wide, with individual panels up to 1200 mm wide and 3000 mm high.
- 02
The sightline is the amount of material between each glass panel.
Smarts = 132mm
Origin OB-49 = 110mm
Origin OB-79 = 154mm
- 03
A traffic door is a traditional door within a bifold. It allows you to come in and out without having to open the whole bifold door. It has it's own handle and locking mechanism so it works completely independently.
Not every door configuation will be able to accomodate a traffic door so it's important to tell us if this is an important feature for you. Traffic doors can either be attached to the frame or one of the other bifold door panels.
- 04
As well as all the standard configurations our systems are capable of going round corners. The corner post can also move, opening up two walls with no interuptions.
The image below are the most common configurations.
- 05
Both the Smarts and the Origin doors have bottom rollers. It's not that they are any better or worse than top hung doors, it just so happens that the products we sell happen to have bottom rolling systems. If a company tries to tell you one is better than another, they probably only have that type to sell.
- 06
Aluminium, timber and UPVC all have their place in the world of glazing. UPVC is a fantastic material and revolutionised the window industry during the 80's and 90's. However, UPVC expands and contacts. It's not an issue when you have a window or a single door but as soon as you add together 3,4, 5 or even 6 panels, the rate of expansion and contraction is magnified. The operation of a UPVC bifold can be compromised during hot nd cold weather.
Timber bifolds don't suffer from the same problem, however, they can suffer from twisting and cracking. In every timber bifold guarantee you will see the words 'timber is a natural material and we can not be held accountable for any twisting or checking (cracking).' There are many moving parts on a bifold door and the last thing you need is twisting and cracking. Having said all that, the best timber bifolds are made from engineered timber. This is where solid timber is cut into strips, flipped end to end, and then glued back together. This evens out the stresses within the timber and makes twisting and checking less likely to occur.
Aluminium expands and contracts at a much lower rate. It is very stable so doesn't twist or crack. There are over 300 hundred colours to choose from which you don't get with UPVC and powder coated aluminium lasts forever, there's no need to repaint the doors every other year as you have to with timber doors.
- 07
A standard threshold in a UPVC door is usually about 60cm above the finished floor level, so you have to step over it as you walk through. A low level threshold is either completely flush with the internal (and posibly the outdoor) floor level. If you are worried about the water tightness of your door then we recomend a rebated threshold. Although the overall depth of the threshold is bigger, the majority of it can be sunk below the finished floor level. There will be a 10-15mm upstand that the door closes against to create the weather seal. This is our most popular option.
- 08
Both the Smarts and Orign bifold has a maximum panel width of 1200mm.
- 09
The Smarts door has a maximum height of 2500mm. THis may be reduced as the width of panel increases.
The Origin doors have a maximum height of 3000mm
- 10
As an example a 3 panel Smart bifold would cost around £3600 including fitting and VAT.
Size, brand, colours and additional features will affect prices. Custom designs and higher-end materials will be more expensive. Contact us for a precise quote based on your requirements.
- 11
Bifold doors require regular cleaning of the tracks and hinges to ensure smooth operation. Lubricate the moving parts and inspect the seals periodically. Clean the glass with a mild detergent to maintain clarity and appearance.
- 12
Installing bifold doors involves accurately measuring the opening, fitting the frame, and attaching the folding panels. It’s crucial to ensure that the doors align correctly and operate smoothly. Professional installation is recommended for the best results.
- 13
Bifold doors feature multiple locking points, reinforced frames, and robust glass options such as toughened or laminated glass. These features enhance security and make it difficult for intruders to gain entry.
- 14
Top brands for bifold doors include Origin and Smart Aluminium. These brands are known for their high-quality materials, innovative designs, and excellent performance in terms of energy efficiency and security.
- 15
Bifold doors are hinged panels that fold neatly to the side, creating a wide, seamless opening to your garden or patio.