Both sliding and bi-fold doors present plenty of unique benefits to modern spaces , but what should decision makers consider when making a selection between the two ?

Panoramic views , superior natural light and an improved flow between indoor and outdoor living - it ’ s clear why so many embrace sliding and bi-fold door applications in their living spaces . Yet , as many look to add value to their buildings , perhaps less clear is how to choose between the two door types when comparing them .

Sliding and folding door features are naturally aesthetic in design and are often used to enhance the style and layout of modern spaces . On the surface , the choice between sliding and bi-fold doors may seem like it hinges on personal preference only . In fact , there ’ s much more to consider than style , with the unique characteristics of both systems offering a wide range of benefits related to the door ’ s operation , placement and functionality . With that in mind , what should decision makers look out for when navigating the offerings associated with each door profile ?

To fold or slide

Noticeably , the main difference between sliding and folding doors is in the way that they open and close . Bi-fold doors are typically made of several panels ( usually between two and seven ) and are connected by a series of hinges and a concealed track running along the floor or ceiling .

When opened , bi-fold panels will fold back on themselves , concertina-style , revealing a complete opening and stacking together in the process . As a result , bi-fold doors are ideal for high-traffic areas where ease of access is important and there is a small amount of space available for panels to be stacked .

Sliding doors , on the other hand , are usually constructed of fewer and larger panels . As such , even when closed , a sliding door feature can provide clearer , uninterrupted views , which is fitting for those with access to year-round idyllic scenery . When operated , the panels of a sliding door will open , usually on the internal side of a fixed panel or wall . In doing so , users have a tidier opening , free of stacked panels that would otherwise take

up space , which is useful in more compact areas of the home . When pressed for space at the side of the required opening , a ‘ telescope ’ opening can also be utilised , which consists of narrower panels that require less space at the side of the door .

Attention to detail

In any case , sliding and bi-fold door applications can offer superior functionality , visual appeal and space-saving capabilities when compared with traditional swing doors . These universal benefits have encouraged a growth of options in sliding and folding door systems , and alongside the different sizes , styles and configurations , it ’ s important to consider where a door may be placed and who may be using it .

With exterior doors for example , a bi-fold system with single open access may offer greater ease of access into the outdoors , regardless of setting . Bi-fold door applications can open outwards or inwards and may be applied to both large and small openings . Where fully open bifold doors are useful in larger settings or group gatherings , ‘ traffic ’ door configurations allow users to move through a single panel and remove the need to fold each panel back . In comparison , external sliding doors offer a straightforward solution for all requirements , whereby users may simply slide their door open to the amount that ’ s required at the time .

Inside , both folding and sliding door features can elevate the visual appearance of a building , with spaces made to feel more open and airier . Alternatively , during winter

spells , spaces can become cozier by closing off entire rooms and prioritising warm working and living areas . Flexibility aside , daily use is another consideration to make when it comes to internal doors . Bi-fold and sliding systems are often lightweight in design and easy to use , with sliding doors safer to operate . With a sliding motion , users eliminate the need to open doors into the direction of foot traffic whilst also removing the potential finger trapping risks that come with slamming doors - making them a suitable option for buildings where children are present , especially when a soft-close device is utilised . For modern living areas where floorspace is limited , sliding doors can also save noticeable amounts of room , and as such , are often utilised in small flats , medical environments and student accommodation . To maximise space even further , pocket doors offer an additional benefit of disappearing into the wall when not required , freeing up valuable wall space that a standard sliding door application would normally require .

For those on the fence , it ’ s essential to review what may be best suited to your building by taking into account the whole picture and not only opting for a stylised approach . Sliding and folding doors can add value in a number of areas by sharing key advantages , several dissimilarities and a unique set of benefits . With that said , decision makers are urged to review these key considerations when making their choice - only then can one ensure their chosen hardware is practical in application .

www . allegion . com