Bifold doors are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners, and for good reasons. They offer an excellent way to open up your living space and provide a seamless transition to your outdoor area. Choosing the right bifold entryway can be overwhelming, especially if you are new to this type of door. In this blog post, we will provide you with valuable tips to help you choose the right bifold openings that work well for your needs.
Table of Contents
What to Pay Attention to When Choosing Bifold Doors
Size
Choosing the right size of internal bifold doors can be difficult for many customers. However, taking the time to properly measure your structural opening will ensure a perfect fit for your home. When measuring, it is important to measure the structural opening from the subfloor all the way to the lintel above the opening rather than relying on a plaster line or existing frame lining.
Here are some important factors to keep in mind when choosing bifold shutters for your home:
- For bi-fold doors, the minimum width of a single panel depends on the chosen configuration and whether the number of panels is even or odd. The minimum width is around 28 inches for even-numbered configurations and around 16 inches for odd-numbered configurations. Keep in mind that panels narrower than this may hinder the operation of the lead entry and the smooth sliding of the panels along their track.
- The smallest bi-fold set comes with two folding doors and no lead entrance. But most people find the three-door set, which includes a lead entry and two leaves, more convenient and easier to access. The minimum width for a three-door bi-fold set is usually between 45-55 inches, but this can vary depending on the manufacturer.
- Most manufacturers offer bi-fold entryways with a minimum height of around 60-70 inches, although some can technically make doors with a much lower minimum height. However, the majority of homeowners won’t require doorways that are so short.
- There are two different measurements to consider when it comes to the maximum width of bifold doors: the width of one frame leaf and the width of the full set of doors.
- The maximum width of a single door panel for bifold panels can range from 35 to 50 inches In the US, bi-fold doors need to pass High-Velocity Hurricane Zone tests, which test the product’s ability to withstand hurricane conditions. The maximum panel size for hurricane zones is 36 ¾ inches x 96 inches, while the maximum panel size for non-hurricane zones is 48 inches x 118 inches.
- The maximum width of a set of bi-fold doors depends on the number of panels it includes.
- The maximum height for many bi-fold doors is typically 95-98 inches, but some manufacturers can provide bifold sets with heights ranging from 120 to 145 inches. While these sets can support the added weight of frame material and larger glass panes, opening the frames becomes more difficult as the amount of glass increases.
Number of Panels
When choosing the number of panels for bifold doors, keep in mind that the maximum number of panels depends on available space. Bifold french doors with around eight panels will need another track, limited to around 20 feet. Larger doorways require two tracks during installation. The weight of the doors and the opening mechanism can become a limiting factor. Consider aesthetics, as more panels create an intricate and visually interesting look. Choose the number of panels that meet your needs and complement your home’s design.
Configuration
Bifold doors come in different configurations that determine the position of the one that opens first and contains the multi-point locking system. If you prioritize symmetry, choose a configuration that slides two panels left and three panels right, with the lead door at the center. Or, if you prefer a more prominent entrance, opt for a configuration that slides all one way, with the lead entry on the left or right. Consider your needs and preferences when selecting a configuration for your bifold doors.
Conclusion
When choosing bifold doors, it’s important to consider factors such as size, number of panels, and configuration. Properly measuring your structural opening and understanding the minimum and maximum dimensions of bifold doors can help ensure a perfect fit for your home. Additionally, choosing a configuration that meets your needs and complements your home’s design can enhance the overall look and functionality of your space. By following these tips and working with a reputable manufacturer, you can find the right bifold doors that work well for your needs and enhance your living space.
