Large sliding doors, including lift-and-slide systems, are the trend taking over from bifold doors. They offer slimmer frames and bigger single panes of glass. Bifolds are still widely chosen though, because they open far more of the wall and suit wide openings and corners.
How do sliding doors compare with bifold doors?
| Feature | Sliding doors | Bifold doors |
|---|---|---|
| Clear opening | About 50% on a two-panel set | Roughly 90 to 95% |
| Frames in the view | Slim interlock, about 20 to 35 mm | Repeating frames, about 80 to 120 mm |
| Stacking space | None, panels park on the track | Around 400 to 600 mm at the side |
| Best suited to | Openings under about 3 m | Wide openings and corners |
Why are sliding doors gaining ground?
Structural glass allows panes of 2 m or more, which gives an almost frameless view. Sliding panels also stay within the frame, so no space is lost inside or outside.
Which should you choose?
Choose sliding for an uninterrupted view and a simpler mechanism. Choose bifold when you want the whole opening clear for indoor and outdoor use. The width of the opening and the layout of the room usually decide it. Phoenix Windows can survey and advise on bifold doors for your property.
Thinking about new doors? We fit across Nuneaton, Bedworth, Hinckley, Tamworth and Rugby, and every installation comes with an insurance-backed 10-year guarantee. Call 02476 350 330, or request a quote.