Tips for introducing more
natural light into your home
Ideas for Getting More Natural Light into the Home
Benefits of Bi-fold and Sliding Doors
While there are certain differences that are important to bear in mind when choosing between the two – which we will touch upon a little later – there are also several gains
common to both:
Choice
Most companies offer both bi-fold and sliding doors in a variety of materials, such as wood, UPVC and aluminium. Things like the size of the panes make a difference as to recommended materials, so it’s always worth asking for the advice of your building contractor before making a decision.Strength
The frames are required to be strong enough to support large panes of glass, which are themselves usually tempered, toughened or laminated. The material you use will determine its required mass, which is why aluminium is often preferred to wood or vinyl.Maintenance
As opposed to traditional window units which are usually made up of several smaller panes– let alone the fiddly frames in between – each of the folding or sliding panels consists of only one frame and one pane of glass, making the task of cleaning them a lot less time-consuming.Bringing the Outside In
What’s not to like about being able to enjoy the comforts of being indoors whilst admiring the view of your outside environment? Whether it’s taking shelter from the unpleasant weather or getting shade from the sun, the benefits of having a more seamless transition from outside to in are considerable.Resale Value
According to some industry experts, the addition of bi-fold or sliding doors to a property can increase its resale value by 5-10 per cent. If you were thinking of selling your home soon, or had plans for a redevelopment project, it could be that this increase in value could more than recuperate the cost of having them fitted.
Differences Between Sliding and Bi-fold Doors
As mentioned above, there are several key differences between the two and making a choice will very much depend on personal preference and the attributes that are more important to you. The most common and distinctive of these differences are:
Aesthetics
One of the most significant variables between sliding and bi-fold doors is their glass-to-frame ratio. While bi-folds can be opened more fully, when closed they have significantly more vertical frame visible than sliding doors. In warmer climates, where the average daytime temperatures are sufficient to have the doors open regularly, this aspect of its performance might not be quite so important, but the reality of the British seasons makes it a central question. Put simply: sliding doors may be a better option if maximum natural light and wider views of your garden throughout the year are the priorities.Space Requirements
Sliding doors tend to be made of two or more panes of glass which, when opened, slide sideways to the end of the frame, running parallel to its original position. Bi-folds, on the other hand, fold back against themselves – like a concertina – and run along a track on the floor or ceiling or both. This means that a sliding door doesn’t project outwards when opened, as opposed to the bi-fold, which requires space for the panels to be stacked into, at a right angle to its original position.Threshold
Bi-fold doors can be fitted flush to your floor whereas sliding equivalents will often require a frame you will need to step over to go from indoors to outdoors. While to many a slight obstacle might not be a deal-breaker, there are contexts in which the height of the threshold can become a more pressing concern, such as ease-of-access for the very young and the elderly and those who require the use of a wheelchair.
Cost
The difference in cost is minimal unless the doors get very wide. If the space is a big one, sliding doors can become significantly more expensive due to the high cost of large single units of glass.
Energy Rating
Sliding doors tend to be the more thermally efficient and the reason for this is twofold. Glass is the strong point of any door and the frame is the weak point – thermally-speaking – therefore the higher glass-to-frame ratio of the sliding doors makes them more efficient, coupled with the fact that their profile is usually thicker, too.In and Out Access
Bi-fold doors very often have a traffic door – a panel which can be opened like a normal back door – meaning you are able to quickly nip in and out without having to slide a cumbersome pane along a frame. Sliding doors do not have this feature due to the fixed nature of the panesA Question of Preference
As with so many things in life, the type you choose will depend on the things you hold most dear. Armed with the benefits and limitations of each, you can be better placed to make a decision that best suits your needs.
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VIEW PROJECTFrom sash windows to aluminium bifold doors, our high-quality products are engineered and manufactured right here in Britain. We work with fellow UK-operated companies, Spectus Window Systems, Smart Systems, and Jack Aluminium Systems, to deliver only the very best to our trade, commercial and residential customers.
How much do French doors cost to install in the UK?
The cost of installing French doors in the UK varies depending on the size, material, and design. At Mercury Glazing, we offer competitive pricing tailored to your specific needs. Please contact us for a personalised quote.
How to fit door handles?
Fitting door handles can be a straightforward process. First, measure and mark the position on the door, drill the necessary holes, then attach the handle with screws. For detailed instructions or professional fitting services, feel free to reach out to us.
What are composite doors made of?
Composite doors are crafted from a combination of materials, including PVC, wood, insulating foam, and GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic). This blend ensures strength, durability, and thermal efficiency.
What are composite doors?
Composite doors are high-quality doors known for their robustness, energy efficiency, and security. They are an excellent choice for those seeking a durable and aesthetically pleasing option.
Do composite doors fade in the sun?
Our composite doors are designed to resist fading, even under prolonged sun exposure, thanks to their high-quality materials and construction.
How to adjust composite doors?
Adjusting a composite door usually involves aligning the hinges and lock mechanism. If you're experiencing issues, we recommend contacting a professional for assistance to ensure optimal performance and avoid damage.
How to replace patio doors?
Replacing patio doors involves removing the old doors, preparing the opening, and installing the new doors. It's a task best handled by professionals to ensure a perfect fit and functionality.
How much do patio doors cost?
The cost of patio doors varies based on size, material, and design. Contact us at Mercury Glazing for a bespoke quote that matches your specific requirements.
How much are French doors?
The price of French doors depends on the material, size, and design details. We offer a range of options to suit various budgets. Please get in touch for a tailored quote.
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