Aluminium sliding doors vs bifold doors: which is the right fit?
Aluminium doors continue to be one of the most popular ways to open up internal spaces and create seamless links to the outdoors. For both trade professionals and homeowners, two leading options stand out: aluminium sliding doors and bifold doors.
Each offers its own strengths, depending on the layout, usage requirements and aesthetic goals. So how do bifold doors work in practice, and when might a sliding system be the better choice?
How do bifold doors work?
Bifold doors are made up of multiple glazed panels that fold back on themselves in a concertina motion, stacking neatly to one or both sides of the opening. This creates a wide, open-plan feel and allows almost the entire space to be opened up.
Because the panes fold away, they’re ideal for making the most of good weather or creating a flexible connection to outdoor areas. Even smaller openings can benefit from bifold doors, as long as there is space for the panels to stack on either the inside or outside of your home when open.
When closed, modern aluminium bifold doors offer excellent thermal efficiency, with insulated profiles and high-performance glazing designed to maintain internal comfort all year round.
Aluminium sliding doors: a sleek alternative to bifold doors
For projects with limited space or where a more minimalist finish is desired, aluminium sliding doors provide a great alternative to bifold doors. Instead of folding, the glass panels glide smoothly behind one another, offering wide views with fewer visible sightlines.
While one panel will always remain in place, sliding systems are often chosen for their contemporary style and uninterrupted glazing. This makes them a strong choice for properties with views, patios, balconies or compact gardens.
Our sliding doors can have just a 20mm interlocking sightline, which creates a wall of glass to maximise natural light, even when closed.
Performance, efficiency and security
Both aluminium sliding doors and bifold doors are built to deliver high levels of durability and thermal performance. With advanced multi-chamber profiles, thermal breaks and weather seals, these systems keep indoor spaces warm in winter and cool in summer.
In terms of security, both options are fitted with multi-point locking mechanisms, offering strong protection across all access points. Made from aluminium, these doors are highly secure and durable, keeping properties safe at all times.
Choosing between bifold and sliding doors
The decision between aluminium sliding doors and bifolds often comes down to available space, usage preferences and design priorities. Sliding doors offer a sleek and space-saving solution with larger uninterrupted glazing areas. Bifold doors create the widest possible opening, ideal for blending indoor and outdoor living.
If you're looking for a reliable solution, Bedfordshire Windows supplies and installs both options using premium aluminium systems. Whether you're specifying Cortizo bifold doors for a new extension or considering an alternative to bifold doors for a renovation project, we’ll help you find the right fit. Just call us today on 01234 218 178 to find out more about our products and how we can help your property renovation project.