Bifold Door Configurations
Bifold doors have gained popularity primarily due to their versatility. They are crafted to convert entire wall spaces into expanses of glass, tailored to fit your specific area. This customization results in a distinct arrangement of panes and sash sizes, making each installation unique and individualized. Additionally, you can choose to include a traffic door and specify the opening direction of your bifold, further enhancing its customization options.
Selecting the number of panes for your bifold doors is a crucial configuration decision. It directly impacts the door’s opening mechanism, functionality, and overall visual appeal, shaping the character of your entire door system.
As a general guideline, it’s worth noting that increasing the number of panes in your bifold doors may lead to more obstruction of outside views and solar gain. Our slimline aluminium panes are specifically engineered to maximise the amount of glazing while maintaining a sleek and slender appearance.
We offer market-leading sash sizes of up to 1200mm wide and 3000mm tall, featuring 120mm super slim sightlines. This design ensures that you can enjoy ample natural light and unobstructed views. The number of panes you can incorporate depends on the size of your wall space.
To explore your pane options based on your available space, we recommend using our convenient online door designer tool. Give it a try below to visualise the possibilities for your bifold doors.
Choosing The Right Number of Panels
The fundamental rule regarding how the number of panes affects the operation of bifold doors typically hinges on whether there are an odd or even number of panels.
When there’s an odd number of panels, you have the advantage of all panes sliding in one direction, often with the inclusion of a traffic door. This setup facilitates the use of a multi-point locking system, accommodating both regular and T-handles. Additionally, you have the flexibility of incorporating a single door leaf, also known as a traffic door, for convenient access.
In contrast, when there’s an even number of panels, such as 2, 4, or 6, this configuration doesn’t allow for a master door, which is a door equipped with handles on both the internal and external sides. Bifold doors with an even number of panes sliding in a single direction lack the provision for a master door.
Below, we outline the opening options for bifold doors with 2, 4, and 6 panes, including configurations that enable the inclusion of a master door, facilitating access from both inside and outside.
Bifold Door Configurations & Opening Directions
2 Panel Bifold Doors Configurations
There are two opening configurations available for a two-pane aluminium door. You can opt for a French door style, providing access from both the internal and external sides, or choose a two-pane bifold door, which does not have handles on the external side. The latter is operated with a single T-handle on the internal side of the door.
It’s important to note that with a two-pane bifold door, both panes must be opened simultaneously to gain access through the door, as they slide together. This is not the case with a French door style opening.
4 Pane Bifold Doors Configurations
A 4-pane bifold door offers three opening configurations to choose from. In the 4-0-4 configuration, all panels slide in one direction, resulting in no external handles. Access is facilitated solely through internal T-handles.
The 4-1-3 opening configuration features one master door opening in one direction, while the remaining 3 panes open in the opposite direction. The master door permits access from both internal and external sides, while the other 3 panes are operated using a standard handle and T-handle.
In a 4-2-2 opening configuration, the door essentially comprises two pairs of 2-pane bifold within one frame. Similar to the 4-0-4 configuration, there are no external handles, and access is facilitated solely through T-handles on the internal side.
6 Pane Bifold Door Configurations
When selecting the opening configuration for a 6-pane bifold door, there are two options that feature a master door with handles both internally and externally.
In a 6-1-5 setup, one side includes a master door opening in a different direction from the other panes. This master door can be used independently of the other panes, providing access from both indoors and outdoors without requiring the entire bifold to be opened.
Alternatively, a 6-3-3 configuration consists of two sets of 3 panes each. In this setup, there are two central doors resembling French doors, equipped with handles internally and externally. The remaining bifold door panes can be opened using a T-handle on each side.
Design Your Bifold Door
With numerous configuration options available, designing your dream bifold doors has never been simpler. You are in control of creating your ideal bifolding doors, unique to your preferences. You can choose the number of panes, opening direction, folding direction, and whether your bifold is split – i.e., some panels fold to the left and others to the right.
Each of our products is crafted to your specific requirements and space. Whether it’s colour, accessories, pane options, or finishing touches – we are here to help. For any design queries, our friendly sales team can assist you.
What is a Bifold Traffic Door
Let’s delve into the concept of a traffic or access door, as it pertains to bifold doors.
A traffic door is essentially a conventional door integrated within your bifold door system. Unlike the entire bifold unit, this door can be opened and locked independently, offering easy access without needing to open the entire door assembly.
The purpose behind incorporating a traffic door is to streamline access between indoor and outdoor spaces while ensuring the security of the remaining bifold panels. In the context of bifold doors, these panels swing open individually to facilitate uncomplicated entry and exit.
Selecting Optimal Opening Configurations for Bifold Doors
When it comes to customizing your bifold doors, various design options are available to suit your preferences.
It’s advisable to consider the size and layout of your door openings before embarking on the design process for your ideal aluminium bifold doors.
Factors such as the number of door leaves, sliding direction, and opening/closing mechanisms play a crucial role in determining the best configuration for your doors.
The number of door panels required for your bifold doors largely depends on factors like the size of the door openings, your budget, and other pertinent considerations.
The configuration of your new door will be influenced by the size and layout of your house, with the range of opening options expanding as more leaves are added to the bifold system.
Summary
Bifold doors embody a wide range of attributes, serving various purposes while adding an aesthetic allure to any space. With their ability to introduce natural light and expand living areas, bifold doors have surged in popularity, becoming a sought-after feature in homes worldwide.
The ideal design for your needs hinges on your personal preferences. Whether opting for a simple two-panel configuration or a more elaborate setup like a six-panel corner opening bifold door with a 3+3 configuration, the possibilities are endless.
Bifold doors are transformative elements that enhance open-plan living spaces in a visually striking manner. They can effortlessly divide two areas, such as a kitchen and a living room, yet seamlessly integrate when needed.
The installation of bifold doors transcends ordinary home improvements. From the increased influx of natural light and ventilation to the harmonious blending of indoor and outdoor spaces, and even the potential boost in property value, bifold doors profoundly elevate your quality of life.