The bi Folding Doors can be found in many new homes or extensions today. One of the reasons why many owners choose to use bi-fold doors is the door type’s ability to open up widely. It gives unobstructed large door openings. It is also useful in seamlessly merging two living spaces to form a bigger one or divide a big one into two smaller units. There are also bi folding windows for people who love how bi fold doors work. Here are five things that you should consider when planning to purchase a bi fold door or window.
Security
All doors need to provide security. Make sure to check, evaluate and compare the lock system. Some usual choices include the face fixed and flag hinges but you need to keep in mind that they have some security issues. For instance, the flag hinges can be removed from the outer side even if the bi fold door is closed. One way to get rid of these security issues is to ensure that your lock system’s gearing and hinge fixings are concealed.
Thermal Performance
Normally, you need to make sure that the bi fold doors and windows comply with the building regulations in your area before the installation and you will find that the building regulations regarding U-value performance vary across cities.
The U-value is just one of the forms of measuring thermal performance. It is calculated using the double glazing specification, profile design and dimensions. The result will then be in U-values and will show the insulation benefits of a particular door or window. A good choice will be at least 1.8 U-value. When shopping for any type of door and window, keep in mind that the lower the U-value the better insulation and most building regulations require lower than the minimum 1.8 U-value.
Sight Line
You also need to consider the glass sight line. It will help you in determining the width of the door between each panel. It is also important for you to get the accurate size of visible glass area especially when the bi fold door or window is closed.
You will find that most bi fold doors have dedicated profiles that minimize the sight lines. However, most of the bi fold doors that were made from timber and UPVC use wide ones. They have very board sight lines and sometimes exceed 200 mm. It is a bad choice because it spoils the view most of the times.
Thresholds
The flush threshold is a common choice for bi fold doors to be used as internal doors. An alternative is the raised threshold. The height can vary widely especially on UPVC bi folding doors. You may want to consider the accessibility as well as the trip hazard.
Rolling
When it comes to the bi folding door’s rolling, you can choose between the top hung and bottom type. The top hung rolling allow minimal threshold. However, you will usually need to spend extra bucks to upgrade the lintel to improve strength and stability since the weight is supported from the top. On the other hand, the bottom rolling for bi folding doors are more efficient and affordable since the door’s weight is supported at ground level.