Replacing sliding doors with bifold doors | Benefits of bifold doors & how to install them

At first glance, it can seem as though sliding doors and bifold doors serve the same purpose. Both provide panoramic views, serve as a patio door and slide to open. However, there are differences between the two and, if you’re looking to replace your older, existing sliding doors, it’s important to consider both options.

There are some key distinctions between a bifolding door and a sliding door that could make a huge difference when it comes to choosing the right door for your home.

Does your sliding door need to be replaced?

Many homeowners already have a sliding glass door installed in their homes but look to replace them with something more modern, more efficient or because the doors are showing signs of wear and tear. Here are some of the signs that your sliding patio door may need replacing:

The door no longer operates smoothly

If the door jams frequently or is stiff to move, it’s likely that the rollers that it moves on are either damaged or obstructed, which can happen through use over the years.

If the rollers have moved off the track completely, you’ll find that the whole door will be misaligned, making it difficult or even impossible to close properly.

The glass is damaged

If you notice condensation in the panes of glass, it’s likely that your double glazing has failed. Other faults that should be looked at quickly include cracks or chips due to everyday accidents.

Gaps in the framework

Any gaps that occur in the door frame of your sliding doors leads to heat escaping and larger energy bills. Particularly if your door is older, it may not be energy efficient anymore.

It no longer fits your needs

Whether you’ve decided to take on a full home renovation or simply make a few affordable, but effective changes, replacing your old patio doors with new sliding doors or bifold doors can make a massive difference to your room and outside space.

Looking for a modern aluminium sliding door?

Our pick:

Supreme Sliding Doors

FROM £2,199

Elevate your project with more natural light. Slim 47mm sightlines allow these inline aluminium patio doors to bring the outside in. With excellent energy performance, they add style, flexibility and security to any home. All backed up by our 15 year guarantee.

Shop our aluminium sliding patio doors here.

How much does it cost to replace a sliding door?

The costs of replacing a sliding door with either a new bifold or sliding door will depend on the size and material you choose. Many bifold doors or sliding doors require installation by a tradesperson or by the suppliers themselves so you’ll also need to take into consideration how much their labour costs per day.

When you buy a Vufold ready-to-assemble doors, they are designed for quick and simply installation giving you a professional finish in less time. With easy-to-follow instructions, any competent DIYer can install the doors which means you may not even need a tradesperson, cutting your costs even further. Visit our installation page for more information.

Benefits of Vufold’s ready-to-assemble doors

When you buy a Vufold ready-to-assemble door set, you are provided with everything you need to install your new doors with very little effort and with lower costs. While other bifold door suppliers also offer their own ranges of bifold doors, Vufold’s ready-to-assemble doors differ in the following ways:

• Bifold doors are carefully crafted in specialist state-of-the-art factories

• High-quality guaranteed with every part fitting seamlessly

• Comprehensive instructions to help make installing doors as easy as possible

• No specialist equipment is required with no need to size, mark or chisel

• Everything needed to install the doors is included so there are no hidden costs or need to source added parts

• No complicated toe and heeling of the glass is required

• All components extensively tested.

All our ready-to-assemble kits come with everything needed for a perfect finish, including:

• Hinges

• Tracks

• Hardware

• Fixings

• Seals.

How to replace sliding doors with bifolds

Replacing sliding doors with a ready-to-assemble wooden or aluminium bifold is a straightforward process if you carefully follow the instructions.

There are five simple steps to installing your new bifold doors:

Step one

Before you start removing your sliding doors, double check the space. That includes measuring the opening. We recommend that the frame size is 10mm less in height and width than the opening to make sure there’s room for everything to fit in.

Step two

Remove the sliding doors. You may need to consult the manufacturer or check with whoever installed the doors, if possible, to ensure easy removal.

Step three

Put your bifold frame together. All the parts of our ready-to-assemble sets come pre-machined, so installation only requires placing the doors in the indicated locations along with the hardware and securing the doors.

Step four

Install the hardware and doors: Each door type is different, so the instructions may vary. This step includes fitting the hinges, hanging the doors and fitting draft seals to the doors and frame.

Step five

Adjust if necessary. Vufold has ensured that adjusting your door is a very easy process with our wooden bifold doors supplied with an easy adjustment feature. With a standard screwdriver and Allen key, the bifold pivots can be adjusted to the correct width and height.

Every step required to install your bifold doors will be detailed in your bifold door’s instruction manual, making the process as straightforward as possible. There will also be details on how to maintain your new doors, meaning you can continue to enjoy them for years to come.

At Vufold, we have a range of experts on hand to advise you and help you to make the right decision when looking to replace your sliding doors with aluminium or wooden bifold doors. Contact us today to find out more.

Looking for an energy efficient, aluminium door?

Our pick:

STATUS ALUMINIUM BIFOLD DOORS

FROM £2,489.00

The Status is our most popular aluminium bifold door set, and it’s no mystery as to why. Not only are they fantastic value for such beautifully engineered bifolds, they’re available in a host of configurable options and feature a low threshhold and slim sight lines to give you more natural light, and a better view. As if that’s not enough, our Express range is also available for delivery in just three days.

Shop our aluminium Status bifold doors here.

• Multi point locking system
• High-density foam core and polyamide thermal breaks
• 3-star security cylinder
• Laminated glass.

Shop our Signature aluminium front door range.

What is the difference between sliding doors and bifold doors?

Sliding doors and bifold doors each offer unique benefits for modern living spaces. Sliding doors feature large glass panels that glide along a track, providing uninterrupted views and a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. They are ideal for maximising natural light and work particularly well in homes prioritising a contemporary look.

Bifold doors, on the other hand, consist of multiple panels that fold and stack neatly to one or both sides. They create a fully open aperture, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces, making them perfect for entertaining or connecting with a garden.

The choice often comes down to personal preference and practical considerations. Sliding doors are often better for smaller openings and provide an uninterrupted view when closed, while bifold doors excel in creating a wide-open feel and flexible access options. They can also be fully opened to offer an exceptional view. Both can be tailored to your style and space with Vufold’s high-quality designs.

Read our complete guide to bifold doors vs sliding doors to find out more.

Frequently asked questions

What are the benefits of replacing sliding doors with bifold doors?

Replacing sliding doors with bifold doors offers a range of benefits:

• Maximised Openings: Bifold doors fold back entirely, creating a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors, unlike sliding doors that always leave part of the space closed.

• Improved Natural Light: The expansive glass panels of bifold doors flood your space with natural light, brightening interiors.

• Modern Aesthetic: Bifold doors add a sleek, contemporary look that enhances property value.

• Enhanced Flexibility: Bifold doors can open partially or fully, allowing better control over ventilation and access.

How do bifold doors compare to sliding doors in terms of space efficiency?

Bifold doors excel in space efficiency by folding back neatly against one side of the wall, freeing up the entire width of the doorway. Sliding doors, on the other hand, require one panel to overlap the other, meaning only a portion of the space is accessible. This makes bifold doors ideal for those seeking to maximise their indoor-outdoor connection.

Bifold doors consist of multiple panels connected by hinges, which fold back on themselves when opened. This design allows for the entire width of the doorway to be utilised, creating an uninterrupted opening. Sliding doors, in contrast, operate on a track system where one panel slides behind the other, leaving at least 50% of the space blocked.

What factors should I consider before replacing sliding doors with bifold doors?

When replacing sliding doors with bifold doors, consider:

• Structural suitability: Ensure the wall and frame can accommodate the weight and design of bifold doors.

• Available space: Measure accurately to determine whether bifold doors can fully open without obstruction. Read how to measure for bifold doors here.

• Materials: Choose materials based on durability, maintenance, and style preferences, such as aluminium for a modern look or timber for warmth.

• Glazing Options: Opt for double or triple glazing for energy efficiency and sound insulation.

Do bifold doors offer better insulation than sliding doors?

Bifold doors often provide better insulation than older sliding doors due to advancements in materials and glazing technology. High-quality bifold doors come with:

• Thermal Breaks: Reducing heat transfer through the frames.

• Double or Triple Glazing: Minimising heat loss and enhancing soundproofing. Read our guide to bifold door thermal efficiency to find out more.

• Weatherproof Seals: Preventing drafts and water ingress.

Modern sliding doors may match these features, but bifold doors generally offer superior versatility and design options.

What materials are best for bifold doors when replacing sliding doors?

• Aluminium: Lightweight, durable, and low-maintenance, ideal for modern designs. Available in slim profiles for maximised glass area.

• Timber: Offers a natural, warm aesthetic but requires regular maintenance to prevent weather damage.

• uPVC: A budget-friendly option with good insulation, but less durable and stylish compared to aluminium or wood.

Choose a material that balances durability, aesthetics, and your budget.

Can I replace sliding doors with bifold doors in a small space?

Yes, bifold doors can work in small spaces, but consider:

• Panel Configuration: Fewer panels or narrower designs maximise available space.

• Outward Opening: Opt for outward-folding doors to prevent taking up interior room.

• Track Placement: Ensure the track fits within the existing framework to avoid major structural changes.

What are the energy efficiency benefits of bifold doors?

Bifold doors enhance energy efficiency through:

• Double or Triple Glazing: Reducing heat transfer and maintaining indoor temperatures.

• Thermal Breaks: In aluminium frames, these minimise heat loss.

• Weather Seals: Preventing drafts and leaks, especially in well-fitted doors.

Upgrading to bifold doors can lower energy bills and improve home comfort, making them an eco-friendly choice.

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