Bifold, patio and French doors, what’s the difference?

When it comes to choosing the right type of door for your home, the most popular are bifold, patio, and french doors. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these door types to help you make an informed decision on which one to choose for your home. 

Let’s start with bifolding doors:

• Can be installed without a bottom frame, so no tripping hazards! 
• Create a large open space between indoor and outdoor living areas
• Consist of multiple panels that fold in on themselves when opened
• Manufactured in a choice of materials including, aluminium, composite, timber and UPVC

Patio doors:

• Also known as  French patio doors 
• Often made of glass, which allows for plenty of natural light to enter the home
• Consist of one or two large panels that usually slide open horizontally to create a wide opening
• The same as bifold doors in the fact that they are manufactured in a choice of materials – aluminium, composite, timber & UPVC

Traditional french doors:

• They consist of two doors, hinged so that they open outwards from the centre

The benefits of bifold doors

One of the biggest benefits of bifold doors is the strength and flexibility they provide. Homeowners can choose to open just one panel for easy access or fold all of the panels back to create a wide opening. They have the added bonus that they can be made in a selection of materials and finished to a colour of your choosing. Bifold doors also allow for plenty of natural light to enter the home, which can make the space feel brighter and more welcoming.

Why choose patio doors? 

Patio doors are a classic choice that has been popular for decades. They are easy to use, and they slide open and closed effortlessly. Because of this, they make a great choice for homes with children or elderly residents. Another great advantage is that there is only one moving panel which makes them low maintenance. They can save you money too, with all the natural light they provide, it enables you to turn off all that artificial lighting! 

Want an elegant and timeless look? Opt for French Doors

Go for french doors. They are often used in more traditional homes, but they can also work well in modern or contemporary homes with the right design. Built with simple mechanisms they are versatile as they can be open wide like a bifold, or there is the option of opening one side like a sliding patio door.  French doors have also been known to add value to your home. 

In conclusion, bifold doors, patio doors, and french doors all offer different features and benefits. Bifold doors are flexible and modern, patio doors are easy to use and provide a great view, while french doors are elegant and timeless. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your personal preference, the style of your home, and your budget.