Choosing the best type of patio door for your home | Bifolds vs sliding vs French doors

If you have a garden or a view you wish to show off, patio doors are an excellent choice. However, ‘patio door’ can be a confusing term that covers several different types of doors.

This guide will showcase the types of patio doors and their benefits, such as sliding doors and bifold doors. We also explore the different security features, sizes, costs, and other features of patio doors.

What is a patio door and what are the different types?

A patio door is an all-encompassing term that generally refers to three external door types:

• Sliding doors

• Bifold doors

• French doors.

You may find the term used interchangeably for all three doors, or specifically for one kind of door. They differ in terms of usages, styles, sightline options and price range, so it is worth researching to find the right door.

Sliding doors

Sliding patio doors open horizontally along a track. They are often used in wider openings or when you want to showcase a view. Larger leaves (panes of glass) offer uninterrupted views, while the door’s horizontal system means the leaves stack neatly behind each other, saving space.

Vufold’s sliding patio doors are made from robust aluminium. The doors also come with double glazing, which offers excellent thermal performance. Aluminium doors offer better thermal efficiency than wooden or uPVC front doors which means your home will not suffer from as much heat loss during the winter months, helping to save on energy costs.

What are the key benefits of sliding doors?

Sliding doors offer much wider doors than either bifolds or French

doors, allowing more light into your home.

• Provide uninterrupted garden views.

• They have extra-large glass areas with minimum frames.

• They save space because there are no hinged doors protruding on the outside or inside.

Find out more by visiting our sliding doors FAQ's here.

Shop our complete range of aluminium sliding doors here.

Bifold doors

Bifold folding patio doors are made up of multiple doors. When opened, these doors fold back on themselves, creating a concertina effect. Bifold doors use a track system to open and close. This allows the doors to roll and fold seamlessly, ensuring smooth operation. Entire walls can be opened up by using bifold doors, making them a popular choice.

Vufold’s bifold patio doors are available in aluminium, oak and hardwood and can be chosen in a range of colour options and shades. Our bifold doors offer slim sightlines, providing expansive views. The aluminium bifold doors range offers the thinnest sightlines of all our bifolding door ranges.

Find out how bifold doors compare to sliding doors here.

https://www.vufold.co.uk/advice-centre/bi-fold-doors-advice/external/bifold-vs-sliding-door-costs

• Find out how bifold doors compare to sliding doors here.Modern bifold doors easily outperform old style patio doors when it comes to thermal efficiency saving you money on heating bills.

• High-quality bifold door hardware is very easy to use, sliding and folding open and closed in seconds.

• They are available in a range of materials, including aluminium, oak and hardwood.

• They offer a smooth, seamless operation.

• You can choose between both double and triple glazing for your bifold door. Read our full guide to the glazing options for bifold doors here.

Are you looking for a modern black bifold door with excellent thermal efficiency?

Our pick:

Shop our steel look bifold doors range

From £2509

• Thermally broken aluminium - Superior energy efficiency.
• Easy Install - Doors come ready glazed, with drill bits and fixings.
• Glazing – Double and triple
• Cill options - standard or projecting.

Shop our black Status aluminium bifold door range.

French doors

A French door is simply two doors that pivot on hinges mounted on opposite sides of the door framing. French patio doors are used for smaller openings and are popular with traditional homes. French doors offer larger sightlines in comparison to the sleek sightlines of bifold and sliding doors, providing a more traditional appearance.

Vufold’s French patio doors offer energy-efficient double or triple glazing, multi-point locking systems and a 10- or 15-year guarantee.

Shop our full selection of French doors here.

What are the key benefits of French doors?

• They provide a unique, traditional appearance.

• They are a cost-effective option.

• They are an ideal option for smaller openings.

• They are ideal if you want a simple patio door option.

*Low E - means the glass reduces the amount of heat transfer, keeping rooms cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Find out how French doors compare to sliding doors here.

Choosing the best patio door option for you

Bifold, sliding, and French doors all offer unique benefits. Bifold doors create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, offering full, uninterrupted views when open and replacing entire walls. Sliding doors provide wider views when closed, thanks to their large glass panes and slim sightlines, though one panel always remains in place.

French doors, the most affordable option, are ideal for smaller openings and older-style properties, providing less glass coverage but still offering better views than standard doors. In terms of cost, bifold and sliding doors vary depending on size and configuration, while French doors are generally more budget-friendly. Both bifold and sliding doors can feature level thresholds, creating a smooth transition between spaces, while French doors are simpler in design and configuration.

Frequently asked questions

How much do patio doors cost?

The cost of patio doors varies depending on the size, material, design, and any additional features like glazing or hardware. It's important to consider not just the initial cost but also long-term benefits like durability and energy efficiency.

How do you secure patio doors?

Securing patio doors involves a combination of robust hardware and smart practices. Multi-point locking systems are essential, providing multiple locking points along the frame. You can also fit additional locks, such as deadbolts or security bars, for enhanced protection. Laminated or toughened glass adds an extra layer of security, as it’s more resistant to breakage. Installing sensors or alarms and ensuring proper installation of the doors can help safeguard your home.

What are the benefits of aluminium patio doors?

Aluminium patio doors are highly durable and resistant to warping, rust, and weather damage, making them a long-lasting choice. They are slim and lightweight, allowing for larger glass panels that maximise natural light. Aluminium also offers excellent thermal efficiency when paired with modern glazing and features such as thermal breaks. Additionally, its sleek and contemporary appearance complements a wide range of home styles, while being eco-friendly due to its recyclability.

Are aluminium patio doors better than uPVC patio doors?

Aluminium patio doors are often considered superior to uPVC in terms of durability, strength, and aesthetic appeal. Aluminium frames are slimmer, enabling larger glass areas for a more modern and open feel. They are also more resistant to wear and tear, with a longer lifespan. While uPVC is a more budget-friendly option, aluminium offers better thermal performance, especially with high-quality glazing, and requires less maintenance over time. For those seeking a premium, long-term solution, aluminium is typically the better choice.

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