Uniquely sliding and folding back on themselves to seamlessly connect inside spaces with the great outdoors, it’s not hard to see why aluminium bifold doors are one of our bestselling home improvement solutions. However, from time to time, the question as to whether bifold doors are out of fashion crops up. Hardly surprising really, what with so many fantastic modern alternatives to choose from, such as sleek sliding patio doors and elegant French door arrangements.
Complementing both classic and contemporary aesthetics with ease, bifold doors are still very much ‘in’; offering households a variety of innovative designs, colours and finishes that are sure to stand the test of time.
Bifold doors are an obvious choice for maximising interior space, but it tends to be harder to differentiate between the material options available. So, let’s take a look at the main differences between two of the most popular bifold door materials currently available, aluminium and uPVC.
Learn More About Our Bifold Doors
3 reasons to choose aluminium bifold patio doors over uPVC
1. Aluminium bifolds provide next-level strength
Well-known in the industry for its high-strength-to-weight ratio, aluminium is much stronger than uPVC, and three times stronger than timber. Lasting twice as long as uPVC bifolds, they can hold larger panes of glass, whilst their robust frames can even accommodate triple glazing with ease – unlike uPVC bifold doors, which are susceptible to warping and buckling under the weight of a heavy triple glazed unit.
2. Outstanding weather resistance
Come rain or shine, aluminium bifolds provide optimum thermal and weather performance. Unlike standard uPVC, aluminium will not expand or contract under extreme temperatures. Forming a protective layer of aluminium oxide in the event of surface damage, aluminium doesn’t rust either. Helping them look their best for longer, whether you’ve chosen chic grey aluminium bifold doors, sleek black aluminium bifold doors, or something a bit more adventurous, aluminium is much more resistant to fading too.
Delivering outstanding weather resistance, our premium aluminium bi-fold doors feature an innovative, ultra-insulating polyamide ‘thermal break’ element that’s designed to lower bills and heighten satisfaction across the board.
3. More view, less frame
Aluminium’s fantastic strength means it can be designed with notably thinner frames, enhancing far-reaching Aylebury views with swathes of uninterrupted glazing, and creating on-trend ‘walls of glass’ in Buckinghamshire with ease. Perfect for modern home improvements, aluminium is incredibly adaptable, making it ideal for heritage refurbishments that require slimline steel-look aesthetics.
Aluminium or uPVC bifold doors – you decide
| / | Aluminium bifolds | uPVC bifolds |
| Colours | Over 150 RAL shades | Limited colour options |
| Glazing options | Double and triple glazing, low-E glass & decorative glazing | Double glazing, Low-E glass & decorative glazing |
| Energy efficiency | A+ Energy Ratings | A+ Energy Ratings |
| Security | PAS 24 enhanced security | Multi-point locking |
| Life expectancy | 45+ years | 25-30 years |
| Frame width | Slimline yet sturdy | Chunky |
| Cost | Premium investment | Low price, low quality |
Alternatively, if you have bifold doors that have seen better days, or your project requires a simpler entrance option, it’s worth considering a sleek sliding patio door or a classic French Door arrangement to let the light flood in where it’s needed most.
Smart aluminium bifold doors near me in Aylesbury & Buckinghamshire
From classic white aluminium bifold doors to rustic green aluminium bifold doors, with over 150 RAL shades and Smart’s unique Sensations range of textured finishes, the design possibilities are truly limitless with a Double Glazing Direct aluminium bifold door installation.
Get a real feel for the quality of our products with a visit to our showroom in Aylesbury, give us a call on 01296 320252, or contact us online to discuss your options further.
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