Bifold Door FAQS
Below are some of the questions we are frequently asked by home owners about bifold doors.
Do I require building regulations approval for bifold doors in London?
Bifold doors generally do not require the planning permission due to their coverage under the ‘permitted development rights’. In short, these doors are normally regarded as alterations which will not have a negative impact on neighbouring properties, or result in the significant alteration of one’s home’s exterior.
Are bifold doors energy efficient?
Bifold doors are energy efficient because they allow maximum air flow and light into the room, limiting the amount of energy needed for heating, cooling and lighting. They also feature a strong insulation layer to help keep the temperature of the room regulated and limit the transfer of energy between inside and outside. Additionally, when closed, they create an airtight seal, further improving their energy efficiency.
Do bifold doors add value to a house?
It is advisable that you take into account the additions that are most likely to increase the sale value of your house over time before investing your time and money in a project. It is estimated that bi-folding doors can add somewhere between 5-10% to the resale value of a property. Additional it makes houses more desirable, helping to get a quicker sale.
Are bifold doors high maintenance?
Bifold doors are generally low maintenance. While you may need to lightly clean them from time to time, they don’t require much upkeep. You should, however, pay attention to the hinges and track to make sure they are in good condition and not causing any problems with the opening and closing of the doors. In additional, some special bifold door materials, such as those made of wood, may require occasional refinishing or additional protection to help ensure they last for years to come. You can read more in our bifold door maintenance blog post.
Should bifold patio doors open in or out
If you have a large patio, decking area, or garden, opening out doors is an ideal option that allows for easy access outdoors. However, if your garden is smaller in size and opening out doors is impractical, consider opening in doors instead. Folding doors are usually preferred in these situations due to their ability to not take up too much space in the existing patio, garden, or balcony areas.
How long do bifold doors last?
Aluminium bi-fold doors have an incredible life expectancy of 45 years due to the excellent balance of malleability and strength, which makes them much less prone to warping or rotting than timber or uPVC and almost double the life expectancy of uPVC’s 25-35 years.
Are bifold doors cold in winter?
Regulations require that windows and doors have a U-value of 1.6 W/m2K. Contrary to popular belief, bifold doors do not cause a room to become colder; in fact, they can make a room even warmer!
Are bifold doors secure?
There’s no need to worry when it comes to safety, as all of our bifold doors are highly secure. The master door is equipped with a multi-point locking system with hook bolts, while the intermediate doors feature bolts at the top and bottom.