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Both homeowners and architects are always looking for new ways to incorporate the surroundings into the interiors of the home. One of the best ways to do so is by installing windows and doors with expansive glass panes and slim sightlines. Both uPVC sliding doors and slide-and-fold doors fit this criterion well. However, there are a bunch of other features that one should also consider while picking the right door design for your home. Before discussing the wide-ranging features and benefits of both these designs, let us first know the working mechanism of sliding and bi-fold doors:
What are Slide and Fold Doors?
Slide and fold door, also known as a bi-folding door, has between two and seven panels that are connected by hinges. These run along a concealed track on the floor or ceiling or both. Bi-fold doors slide open in concertina-style.
Bi-fold doors also have a standard-style door at one end. This can offer ingress and egress features without having to fold and open the panels completely. Slide and fold doors can be opened both inwards and outwards. However, most people prefer the latter option as it offers better space efficiency.
What are Sliding Doors?
Sliding doors comprise two or more glass panels that glide sideways along the track, making the panes sit right behind one another. Thanks to their minimal design, sliding doors offer a sleek and contemporary look that is usually preferred by people residing in apartments that have modern architecture.
Sliding doors can limit how much you can open up. However, these days, one can even opt for sliding doors that can be tucked away inside a wall pocket. This can help you open up the entire space and create an unobstructed opening while also merging two areas seamlessly.
Slide and Fold Doors vs. Sliding Doors
Both bi-fold and sliding doors are great options to consider. However, their unique design offers different features. So, to pick the right design for your home, it is essential to know what kind of benefits either of them offers. Let us have a look:
Space-Saving
Although both door designs can help save space, sliding doors are the clear winner in this area. Unlike traditional door designs, sliding doors do not have to be folded and swung outward. This saves a lot of space and even allows you to keep decorative items beside the frames without any hassle. Moreover, the panels glide along the track, making for a much cleaner transition. Other than this, sliding doors that can be tucked in a wall pocket will help you with wider openings without taking up any extra space.
So, if you have a smaller space and are looking for an option that does not disrupt the flow of your indoor-outdoor entertaining areas, sliding doors are a fantastic pick.
Views
One of the main features that you would look for in your uPVC balcony doors is its ability to offer expansive views of the surroundings. Both bi-fold doors and sliding doors can offer great views of the outdoors. However, sliding doors are known for providing wider views when the panels are closed. On the other hand, bi-fold doors offer better views when the panels are opened. Thus, depending on your preference, you can pick the one that suits your requirements the best.
Installation and Maintenance
Sliding doors have a minimal design and also comprise of lesser glass panels as compared to bi-fold doors. This makes the installation process of sliding doors quicker and easier. Moreover, cleaning and maintaining sliding doors is also relatively smoother as compared to bi-fold doors.
Affordability
Although the actual price of the fenestration product depends on the configuration and size, usually, bi-fold doors are a much more affordable option as compared to sliding doors. Still, one needs to review the pricing based on their specific configurations such as choice of material, glazing options, etc. uPVC is one of the most preferred materials when it comes to fenestration products, owing to its affordability, robustness, and weather resistance.
Conclusion
Both bi-fold and sliding doors are practical options that homeowners can consider. Since you are now aware of the different features and benefits offered by both door designs, we hope that picking the one that ticks all the right boxes will be much easier.
