Pros and Cons of Bifold Doors

When it’s time to renovate your home, bi-fold doors can add beauty and functionality to any room. Whether it’s a back porch or laundry room door, the bi-fold door’s ability to open and close via center hinges allows you to install doors in tight spaces.

Does this type of door make sense for your home? Here are the benefits and drawbacks of bi-fold doors so that you can make an educated choice about your next project. Also, this guide will share some top manufacturers of bi-fold doors that are available in the U.S.

What Are Bi-fold Doors?

Bi-fold doors are made of two or more folding panels that open and close on centrally-located hinges. They are also known as “concertina doors” since they fold and open just like the accordion-like instrument↗ it’s named after. Bi-fold doors are popular in rooms in which fully opening doors would take up too much space. Since these doors can fit almost anywhere, they are a fine alternative to a standard door when you still need a door in close quarters. In this post, we'll focus on exterior bifold doors.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Bi-fold Doors?

The pros and cons of bi-fold doors are important to consider when you need to make the best decision about your home upgrade. Here are some of the advantages and drawbacks of installing bi-fold doors.

What Are the Pros of Bi-fold Doors?

Low-Maintenance: Just like standard doors, they just need an occasional wipe-down and lubrication at the hinges.
They increase natural light: When you choose glass-paneled bi-fold doors, you can turn a door into a large window, which lets in plenty of natural light.
They save space: Since these doors close on central hinges, they don’t need to swing into a wide space like a traditional door.
They are energy-efficient: When you get a bi-fold door made of insulated glass or energy-efficient materials, you can help your home maintain a more comfortable internal temperature.
They are attractive: Bi-fold doors come in a variety of panel materials and hinge styles so that you can achieve a beautiful look for your home.
They are highly secure: Bi-fold doors have multiple locking points and are fitted on enclosed tracks, which make them a nuisance for burglars but a benefit for you!

What Are the Cons of Bi-fold Doors?

There isn’t a threshold: The lack of a threshold can also cause drainage problems in the wrong environment. To be safe, install this door where you know water isn’t likely to pool. This may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Higher Cost: Bi-fold doors offer beauty, security, and functionality that warrant their higher price. However, the higher cost of this door may deter people from committing to this choice.
Bi-fold doors aren’t a typical DIY project: Though it’s easy for a contractor with the right tools, it can be a challenging endeavor for a regular person. Be sure to hire an experienced door installer. Come company's have lists of installers who have taken product installation certification workshops, that's a good place to search.

Who Makes The Best Bi-fold Doors?

There are a few manufacturers that are known for making some of the best bi-fold doors on the market. These brands are known for their superior quality and mind for innovative solutions.

Andersen: “Love The Life You See™”.

Andersen Corporation is a manufacturing company that has been in business for over 115 years. Making better windows and doors has been at the core of its company values. Its premium Andersen doors come in many styles to meet the needs of every homeowner. Whether you need a bi-fold door in vinyl, wood, fiberglass, or glass panels, there is an option to meet your needs.

Centor: “Elevate Your Lifestyle”.

Centor is an award-winning company that has been designing door and window systems since 1951. The company invented the first weather-sealed bi-fold system, which made it possible for folding doors to be used as external doors for the first time. If you need a new bi-fold door, check out their 200 series doors, which use strong aluminum frames clad with attractive natural wood.

Fleetwood: “Build it Better, Not Faster”.

Fleetwood Windows and Doors↗ has been manufacturing doors and windows since 1961, giving it over 60 years of experience in a competitive industry. The company’s specialty is creating products for luxury homes, so quality means everything. At Fleetwood, you’ll find unique solutions like the pivot door and the 3-series folding door↗ that offers an elegant upgrade to traditional patio doors.

LaCantina: “More Than a View— A Lifestyle”.

LaCantina is another pioneer in the folding door industry. This California-based company is dedicated to perfection. When you own a LaCantina bi-fold door, you’ll appreciate its high-quality rolling hardware and strong panels that will stand the test of time. There are a variety of LaCantina folding door↗ systems that can span any size openings and suit custom projects. Customers also love how every door is backed by an industry-leading warranty.

Marvin: “ Windows and Doors Built for How You Live.”

Marvin has been in the home improvement business since 1912, which has given the company plenty of time to create outstanding products. The Marvin Signature™ Ultimate Bi-Fold Door↗ is one of the company’s points of pride. Offering a true indoor and outdoor living experience, its panels allow you to open an indoor space directly to the outside. With widths of up to 55 feet available, Marvin makes some of the largest folding doors out there.

High-Quality Bi-Fold Doors

These leading bi-fold door manufacturers each offer outstanding quality and design options to complete your vision. If you need help selecting a residential bi-fold door, contact us.