Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk Entrance, Internal, Sliding & Bi-folding Doors 101 THE door industry journal winter 2024 offer superior functionality, visual appeal and space-saving capabilities compared with traditional swing doors. These universal benefits have encouraged a growth of options in sliding and folding door systems, and alongside the different sizes, styles, and configurations, it’s important to consider where a door may be placed and who may be using it. With exterior doors, for example, a bi-fold system with single open access may offer greater ease of access into the outdoors, regardless of setting. Bi-fold door applications can open outwards or inwards and may be applied to both large and small openings. Where fully open bi-fold doors are useful in larger family settings or group gatherings, ‘traffic’ door configurations allow users to move through a single panel and remove the need to fold each panel back. In comparison, external sliding doors offer a straightforward solution for all requirements, whereby users may simply slide their door open to the amount that’s required at the time - whether to let out pets, empty the rubbish, or to completely open up their home to the sun and fresh air. Inside, both folding and sliding door features can elevate the visual appearance of homes, with spaces made to feel more open and airier. Alternatively, homes can become cosier during winter spells by closing off entire rooms and prioritising warm living areas. Internal bi-fold doors are effective at splitting large communal areas up to create smaller spaces, which is especially beneficial when homeowners are looking to save on energy costs in the colder months. The cost-saving potential rises when bi-fold systems are placed between a lounge or dining room and a conservatory for example, with this area of the home known for losing heat during the winter and conserving heat in the summer. Flexibility aside, daily use is another consideration to make when it comes to internal doors. Bi-fold and sliding systems are often lightweight in design and easy to use, with sliding doors safer to operate. With a sliding motion, users eliminate the need to open doors in the direction of foot traffic whilst also removing the potential fingertrapping risks that come with slamming doors - making them a suitable option for homes with children, especially when a soft-close device is utilised. For modern living areas where floor space is limited, sliding doors can also save noticeable amounts of room and, as such, are often utilised in small flats and student accommodation. To maximise space even further, pocket doors offer an additional benefit of disappearing into the wall when not required, freeing up valuable wall space that a standard sliding door application typically requires. For those on the fence, it’s essential to review what may be best suited to your property by considering the whole picture and not only opting for a stylised approach. Sliding and folding doors can add value in a number of areas by sharing key advantages, several dissimilarities and a unique set of benefits. With that said, homeowners are urged to review these key considerations when making their choice - only then can one ensure their chosen hardware is practical in application. For more, visit www.briouk.com Brio pocket door Image: Courtesy of Mumford & Wood
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