External bifold doors: Aluminium vs uPVC - What are the key differences?
Author: John Collins - Managing Director
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External bifold doors and windows not only look appealing, but they can also help to increase the value of your property. However, with dozens of materials and optional extras available, it can be hard to know where to start.
Here, we compare the two most common materials for bifold patio doors: aluminium and unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC).
In this guide:
Read how aluminium bifold doors and UPVC bifold doors differ in terms of initial cost, long-term value and cost of maintenance.
Find out how both types of bifold doors compare in terms of tolerance to heat, colour damage and general maintenance.
Read how uPVC and aluminium compare when it comes to their impact on the environment.
Find out which type of bifold door provides the slimmest sightlines and the best view.
Read our overall verdict on how to choose the best option for you.
We answer common queries on choosing a bifold door.
Lifetime cost: Aluminium vs uPVC
Although external aluminium bifold doors cost more upfront, they’re long-lasting. Firstly, the guarantee on aluminium is often longer – roughly 50% longer. This means that should anything go wrong with your doors in years 10 through to 15, you have a manufacturer’s guarantee to fall back on.
Aluminium bifold doors and windows can also last for up to 45 years. By comparison, those made of uPVC have an average lifespan of 20-30 years, after which you’ll have to replace with new ones. There is no doubt that higher quality fixtures will also work in your favour at point of sale, helping to increase house valuations.
Expert Quote:
"Aluminium as a material will comfortably outlast uPVC, which has a lifespan of only 20 to 30 years."
Rick Collins, Director, Vufold
Consider maintenance costs
There is very little between the two materials. The most important point to consider is that the standard white uPVC doors will need regular cleaning, otherwise dirt and grime can become engrained in the plastic. This may mean specialist cleaning products are required. Both materials are extremely easy to maintain, and this is a key benefit of both options. Find out more about maintaining your bifold door.
Are you looking for a modern black bifold door with excellent thermal efficiency?
Our pick:
Shop our steel look bifold doors range
From £2849
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Thermally broken aluminium - Superior energy efficiency.
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Easy Install - Doors come ready glazed, with drill bits and fixings.
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Glazing – Double and triple
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Cill options - standard or projecting.
Verdict: Aluminium frames are initially more expensive but when factoring in lifetime cost, extended guarantees and property desirability, they are likely to be a more cost-efficient solution than uPVC overall.
Read our full guide to aluminium bifold door maintenance here.
Resistance to weathering and damage
Tolerance to heat & light
This is one area where external aluminium bifolds really outshine their uPVC counterparts. When exposed to direct UV rays for an extended period, aluminium shows better resistance to expansion and contraction. As a material, aluminium is incredibly resistant to heat and light meaning it is less prone to thermal expansion.
uPVC is also resistant to contraction and expansion to a point. The generally accepted view is that you can expect roughly 2.5 times more expansion with uPVC.
External bifold doors guarantee
The standard aluminium bifolds come with a 15-year guarantee, whereas most uPVC doors come with a 10-year guarantee. This therefore is a further long-term benefit of aluminium – essentially you will enjoy a 50% longer product warranty. Vufold offer 50% longer guarantee duration periods over its closest competitors, so you can enjoy peace of mind when you purchase from Vufold - incredible quality means you don't have to worry about expensive repairs in the future. All of our external aluminium doors come with a 15-year guarantee. Find out more about our guarantee offerings here.
Colour fades & damage
An area that causes confusion is the amount of fading (photodegradation) homeowners can expect with their doors. The reality here is that all the materials - aluminium, hardwood & uPVC will experience a level of colour breakdown when exposed to sunlight over a prolonged period of time.
If your doors are, for example, south or southwest facing, they will get more exposure to UV light – so keep this in mind, especially if you are thinking of darker frames. In essence colours begin to reflect less natural light as they breakdown, leaving them looking ‘dull’. If your property is expecting plenty of glorious sunshine, then lighter colours may be the way to go to limit the impact of this natural occurrence.
General maintenance
There isn’t much between the materials in terms of general maintenance. What you can expect, however, is standard white uPVC doors will inevitably show more dirt than an aluminium equivalent. In general, warm water and a soft brush will eliminate most dirt and grime on aluminium frames.
Read our full guide to bifold door installation and maintenance here.
Expert Quote:
"Aluminium bifolds will be smooth to operate regardless of the weather. When it comes to fading, it should be stated that powder coating fade is also expected to a point. Generally speaking, darker colours will experience more noticeable fading - whether they are uPVC foil or Aluminium powder coated."
Rick Collins, Director, Vufold
Thermal efficiency
Bifold doors are some of the most eco-friendly external door solutions on the market, when utilising double or triple glazing. Both uPVC and aluminium offer excellent levels of insulation. Aluminium frames provide incredibly strong support for triple glazing when compared to other materials, and many modern aluminium bifolds come with a thermal break to increase thermal efficiency. The combination of excellent thermal efficiency and durability suggests aluminium is the most practical choice for a bifold door.
Find out more about choosing a bifold door with excellent thermal efficiency here.
Vufold aluminium bifolding doors are available in a range of standard colours, all powder coated to provide an incredible, hard-wearing finish:
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Hippca White (RAL 9910)
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Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016)
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Jet Black (RAL 9005)
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Dual Colour Anthracite Grey/White (RAL 7016/9910).
Sightlines and view
This is a major part of the ‘wow factor’ in bifold doors. In case you’re not familiar with the term, a ‘sightline’ is the non-glass section of bifold doors - where the two panels of the bifold doors meet; also known as the door ‘stiles’. When choosing bifolds, the sightline is therefore an important consideration because it determines the quality of the view you will get.
Generally speaking, aluminium bifolds are known for having slimmer sightlines than uPVC equivalents. Aluminium is stronger than uPVC meaning manufacturers can offer more glass without compromising product quality, stability and safety.
Overall verdict
The following table gives an independent view on the main considerations homeowners should consider when opting for either aluminium of uPVC external bifold doors:
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Consideration |
Aluminium |
uPVC |
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Initial Cost |
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Life Time Cost |
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Thermal Expansion |
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Guarantees / Life Span |
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Finish & Style |
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Threshold |
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Security & Safety |
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U-Values (Thermal Efficiency) |
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Maintenance |
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Enviroment & Health |
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Sight Lines / Frames |
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RAL Colours |
| Above average for industry | |
| Average for industry | |
| Below average for industry. |
In summary, uPVC external bifolds are an excellent option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, low-maintenance and energy-efficient option. On the other hand, aluminium bifold doors may be the better option if you’re looking to make a long-term investment and increase the curb appeal and value of your property. They may also be the best choice if you are passionate about using environmentally friendly materials.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between aluminium and uPVC bifold doors?
Aluminium bifold doors are typically more durable and offer a sleeker, more modern appearance compared to uPVC bifold doors. Aluminium is known for its strength, which allows for slimmer frames and larger glass panels, providing a contemporary, minimalist look. uPVC bifold doors, on the other hand, are more affordable and offer excellent insulation, but they tend to be slightly less durable than aluminium doors.
Are aluminium bifold doors more expensive than uPVC bifold doors?
Yes, aluminium bifold doors are generally more expensive than uPVC bifold doors. This is due to the higher material costs and the manufacturing process of aluminium. However, aluminium doors offer superior strength, longevity, and a premium aesthetic, which can justify the higher cost for many homeowners.
Which material is more durable, aluminium or uPVC?
Aluminium is significantly more durable than uPVC. It is resistant to warping, cracking, and fading, making it ideal for long-term use and exposure to various weather conditions. uPVC doors are durable but can become discoloured or brittle over time, particularly when exposed to extreme sunlight or cold temperatures.
Do aluminium bifold doors require more maintenance than uPVC?
No, aluminium bifold doors require very little maintenance. They only need occasional cleaning to keep them looking their best and are resistant to rust and corrosion. uPVC doors also require minimal maintenance, but they may need more frequent cleaning to prevent discolouration or staining, especially in areas with high pollution or exposure to harsh weather.
Can I get bifold doors in different colours with aluminium and uPVC?
Yes, both aluminium and uPVC bifold doors are available in a range of colours. Aluminium doors typically offer a wider variety of customisable colours and finishes, including metallic and textured options. uPVC doors are also available in a selection of colours, although the range may be more limited compared to aluminium. Find out more about choosing a bifold door colour here.
Do aluminium or uPVC bifold doors improve property value?
Aluminium bifold doors are more likely to enhance your property's value, as they are often highly sought after due to their excellent durability, design flexibility, and modern aesthetic. While uPVC bifold doors are a more budget-friendly option, they may not have the same impact on property value, although they still offer excellent functionality.
Which material is more environmentally friendly: aluminium or uPVC?
Aluminium is considered more environmentally friendly than uPVC because it is highly recyclable. In fact, aluminium can be recycled multiple times without losing its quality. uPVC, while also recyclable, has a more complex recycling process and may not be as sustainable in the long term as aluminium.
Are aluminium bifold doors more secure than uPVC?
Both aluminium and uPVC bifold doors can offer high levels of security, but aluminium doors tend to be more secure due to their strength and resistance to impact. Aluminium frames are more robust, making them harder to break or force open. However, both types of doors can be fitted with multi-point locking systems and toughened glass to enhance security.
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About John Collins
John has built Vufold into a unique online door and window company and has spent 20 years bringing innovative products and designs to fruition, recognising niches in the market and placing them in the likes of Wickes and Travis Perkins, he started Vufold in order to sell them directly. John founded Vufold and has amassed a wealth of experience in product design and development, and in particular timber-based products
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