Standard Bifold Door Sizes: Your Guide to Perfect Dimensions
Bifold doors are a popular and versatile choice to maximise space while adding a modern look to your shopfront. These folding doors are designed to open seamlessly, connecting interior spaces with the outdoors with a smooth and expansive passage. For those interested in installing bifold doors, understanding the standard sizes available is crucial to ensure they fit the designated space perfectly.
Standard bifold door sizes vary but are generally consistent within the UK market. Internal bifold doors commonly have a height of 2,078mm, whereas external bifold door heights are typically around 2,090mm. However, it’s quite common to find door manufacturers that offer bespoke sizes to accommodate non-standard openings.
Widths of bifold doors can also vary, typically ranging from a slimmer 2-door option to larger, more extensive 6-door configurations. The size of the doors can impact not only the look but also the functionality of the space. It’s essential to choose the correct width to allow for ease of passage and to ensure the doors can open fully without obstruction. When considering bifold doors, accurate measurements are key, and it is often recommended to consult with manufacturers for guidance to achieve the best fit for one’s space.
Understanding Bifold Doors
When approaching the topic of bifold doors, it is important to have a grasp of the foundational elements such as typical materials, configurations, and operating mechanisms which can impact both functionality and aesthetics.
Bifold Door Basics
Bifold doors consist of multiple door panels connected by hinges, which fold into each other and are suspended from a track. Standard height for internal bifolds tends to be 2078mm (6.8 ft), while external bifold doors are usually 2090mm (6.10ft) in height. The choice between internal and external bifold doors significantly affects the insulation, security, and overall design considerations.
Bifold Door Materials
Material options for bifold doors include aluminium, wood, and uPVC. Aluminium doors offer strength and slim lines, allowing more glass and less frame. Wood provides a traditional aesthetic and natural insulation, while uPVC is a cost-effective option known for its durability and low maintenance. Each material has distinct characteristics that can influence the door’s performance.
Configurations and Panels
The configuration of a bifold door is determined by the number of panels or leaves, which impacts the folding action and the space required. A greater number of panels leads to more flexibility in the width of the door system. Configurations typically range from two to seven panels, suitable for differing opening sizes. Bifold doors offer a variety of standard sizes, but custom sizes are also available for atypical openings.
Folding Mechanisms and Features
Bifold doors employ a mechanical join system that enables smooth operation and folding. High-quality mechanisms are crucial for long-term durability and ease of use. Advances in technology have also led to improved security features, creating a locking system when closed that is equal to or exceeding that of standard doors. Users can enjoy the convenience of an easy-to-operate door without compromising on the safety of their home.
Standard Bifold Door Sizes
When selecting bifold doors, standard sizes are designed to ensure compatibility with typical residential and commercial doorways. Ensuring the correct fit involves understanding the height and widths that are considered standard within the industry, as well as how to measure your space and account for necessary tolerances and clearances during installation.
Standard Height and Width
The standard sizes for bifold doors in the UK generally have a height of 2078mm for internal bifolds and 2090mm for external bifolds. The width for these doors varies, dictating the number of panels that can be installed. Commonly standard widths range from 600mm to as wide as 5000mm, with configurations including 2 to 8 or more door panels.
Measuring the Aperture
To measure the aperture for bifold doors, one should measure the door opening in millimetres from brickwork to brickwork at the top, middle, and bottom, recording the smallest size. Measure the height on both sides and take the least measurement to ensure the door will fit into the available space. The rough opening needs to consider fitting toleranceand any required jamb extensions.
Tolerance and Clearance
Bifold door installation requires a fitting tolerance typically around 10mm for height and width, providing clearance for the door to operate smoothly. Accurate measurements are crucial as a too tight fit can cause the door to jam, whereas too large an aperture might affect the structure and stability. Clearances are also important for the floor finish and any variations in the level of the floor.
Customisation Options
When looking to install bifold doors, shopowners and designers need not be constrained by standard dimensions. The customisation process allows for bespoke size bifold doors tailored to specific architectural requirements.
Custom-Made Sizes
Manufacturers understand that flexibility in size is essential for bifold doors to seamlessly integrate into various spaces. Offering custom-made bifold doors, companies like Vufold provide solutions that can be tailored to exact measurements. This ensures that any opening, whether wider or taller than usual, can be accommodated. These bespoke options are meticulously crafted to not only fit the unique size but also maintain structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
Material and Style Choices
Bifold doors come in a range of materials and styles, giving customers control over the look and feel of their doors. The choice typically includes:
- Timber: Offers a classic and warm feel, often used in traditional designs.
- Aluminium: Known for its strength, slim profiles, and contemporary appearance, aluminium bifold doors are a popular modern choice.
Manufacturers offer various finishes and colours, which means the doors can be aligned with the overall design aesthetic. There’s a considerable amount of freedom in customising both the material and style of bifold doors, catering to diverse tastes and architectural demands.
Installing Bifold Doors
Before beginning the installation process, it is crucial to have accurate measurements and to understand that both internal and external bifold doors may require different fitting tolerances. The right tools and materials should be at hand, and one must be ready to make precise adjustments for a proper fit.
Preparing for Installation
Good preparation is the backbone of installing bifold doors effectively. For internal bifold door sizes, the average standard height is 2078mm (6.8 ft), while for external doors, it typically stands at 2090mm (6.10ft). Before installation, one must ensure that the rough opening is sized correctly; this is the space in the wall where the door will be installed. The opening should be approximately 10mm wider and 5mm taller than the door frame to allow for a fitting tolerance. Measuring for a bifold door involves checking the width at multiple points to account for any discrepancies due to uneven walls, especially in the case of an old bifold door. The following tools and materials should be assembled:
- Tape measure
- Level
- Drill with bits
- Screws and fixings
- Saw (if trimming is necessary)
- Lumber (for potential structural support adjustments)
Fitting and Adjustments
Once everything is prepared, fitting the bifold door can commence. Starting with the top track, secure it in place ensuring that it is centred and level. The door panels can then be hung from the track, beginning with the door options at the hinge side. If adjustments are required, use the built-in hardware to align the doors properly:
- Hang the doors onto the track.
- Align the doors within the opening, checking for even gaps and level margins.
- Adjust the pivot points and bracket positions as needed.
- Snugly fit the door into the frame to avoid scraping or swinging loosely.
It’s vital to check the functionality of the doors by opening and closing them to verify that there is smooth operation without resistance. If necessary, further fine-tuning may involve adjusting door heights with the bottom pivot or modifying the door width by trimming the panels with care. Remember, leaving a small gap around the perimeter of the door will ensure it operates smoothly, despite natural expansion and contraction with changes in temperature and humidity.
Enhancing Your Shop with Bifold Doors
Bifold doors offer both practicality and sleek design, transforming the interface between interior spaces and the outside world. They are a popular feature in modern UK shops, blending aesthetics with functionality.
Maximising Space and Light
One of the foremost benefits of bifold doors is their ability to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas, considerably enhancing the spaciousness. When fully opened, bifold doors occupy minimal space, offering a wider aperture than traditional French doors or sliding doors. The infusion of natural light through their large glass panels makes rooms feel brighter and more expansive, offering an unobstructed view of the garden or exterior.
Energy Efficiency and Insulation
Modern bifold doors are designed with energy efficiency in mind, often featuring thermal breaks and weather-tight seals to maintain insulation. Quality bifold doors contribute to thermal performance, aiding in the reduction of heat loss and promoting energy savings. Well-insulated bifold doors can help you achieve a balance between aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency, which is paramount in the current climate of energy consciousness.
Considerations for Specific Applications
When selecting bifold doors, one must consider the different requirements for domestic and commercial settings, including the necessary safety and security measures. These factors influence the choice of size, materials, and design to ensure functionality and compliance with relevant standards.
Domestic vs Commercial Use
For homeowners, the choice between internal bifold doors and external bifold doors is often based on spatial enhancement and aesthetics. In a domestic setting, internal bifold doors provide flexible living spaces, allowing a seamless flow between rooms. The standard height for such doors in the UK is approximately 2078mm. For external bifold doors, which open up to garden spaces or patios, a standard height of around 2090mm is common with varying widths that determine the number of panels.
In commercial purposes, dimensions and configurations must account for higher traffic usage. External doors may require more robust materials to maintain structural integrity and withstand frequent handling. Commercially, it is also essential to consider accessibility for all users, such as wider door panels that can cater to wheelchair access or high-traffic areas.
Safety and Security Factors
Safety and security are paramount for both domestic and commercial applications of bifold doors. For external bifold doors, security features include multi-point locking systems, reinforced frames, and laminated glass, which are essential to deter unauthorised access and ensure the safety of occupants.
Internal bifold doors may not require the same level of security features but should comply with safety glass regulations to minimise injury in the event of breakage.
Both external and internal doors must be installed with precision to ensure they operate smoothly, without risk of malfunction or injury. This is critical in supporting the structural integrity of the doors over time and guarantees that they remain reliable and secure.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Proper aftercare and maintenance of bifold doors are crucial for ensuring their durability and optimal performance. This involves routine checks and specialised care depending on the materials used in their construction.
Routine Maintenance
Materials such as aluminium, wood, and UPVC require different approaches for maintenance. For instance, bifold doors made of aluminium are praised for their strength and minimal upkeep. They typically necessitate only regular cleaning with a mild detergent and water to prevent the build-up of debris. On the other hand, wooden bifold doors benefit from occasional varnishing or painting to protect against weathering and to maintain their aesthetic appeal.
UPVC doors, while less demanding, still need regular cleaning to keep their surfaces free of dirt and grime. Checking the security features, like locks and hinges, is a universal aspect of routine maintenance across all materials, ensuring they function correctly and provide the necessary level of security.
Long-Term Care and Upkeep
Over time, features such as the tracking system of bifold doors can accumulate dust and particles which can lead to wear or operational issues. It’s essential to check the tracks periodically and clear any obstructions. Additionally, lubricating moving parts with a silicone-based product will keep them functioning smoothly.
For long-term upkeep, it is advisable to inspect the door seals and gaskets, as these can degrade over time, affecting insulation and waterproofing. Any damage should be addressed promptly to maintain the functionality and efficiency of the bifold doors. Whether your doors are constructed from wood, aluminium, or UPVC, ensuring that the structural integrity and aesthetics are preserved will enhance their lifespan and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
When selecting bifold doors, it’s important to understand the standard sizes to ensure they fit your space perfectly. These guidelines are based on the most common measurements adopted by manufacturers.
What are the standard dimensions for internal bifold doors in the UK?
In the United Kingdom, the standard height for internal bifold doors is typically 2078mm. Manufacturers may offer standard widths that correspond to the number of panels within the door configuration.
Standard sizes and how to measure up.
What is the typical size range for two-panel bifold doors?
Two-panel bifold doors generally start at a width of 1800mm. This size allows for adequate space for the folding mechanism and ease of access through the door when open.
How are the widths of four-panel bifold doors measured?
The widths of four-panel bifold doors are contingent on individual panel widths that, when combined, determine the total door width. Widths can greatly vary, accommodating different opening sizes.
What is considered a small size for bifold doors?
Bifold doors with a width less than 1800mm are often regarded as small. This dimension suits narrower openings, and the doors may have two or limited panels.
How can one calculate the appropriate size for a bifold door installation?
Calculating the appropriate size involves measuring the opening height and width where the door will be installed. It’s crucial to leave sufficient space for the door’s operation without obstruction.
What are the common dimensions for bifold closet doors?
Common dimensions for bifold closet doors typically feature a height of 2,030mm to fit standard UK closet openings, with various widths available to suit the closet size.
