BIFOLD WINDOWS & DOORS.
At the Woodworkshop our master joinery team manufacture superior bifold windows & doors.
The advantage of bifolds is that you can open up a space and create a large opening in the wall.
Bifold windows & doors are essentially the same construction just different sizes. The window sashes or door leaves are attached to each other. Bifolds open by moving along a track at the top and bottom of the frame.
WHAT TO CONSIDER?
WEATHER
Weather tightness is an important factor in deciding if bifolds are suitable for your home. If your house is exposed to the wind in Wellington it is often too windy to make full use of them. If they are in an exposed position, some leakage can be experienced with 'vertical rain' we sometimes get in a strong southerly or northerly.
HARDWARE
The size of the doors and selected glazing will determine what hardware is used. Generally we install Assa Abloy running gear either Weatherfold or Timberfold. This is specified to handle the size and weight of the bifold unit. Double glazing and the width of the doors will impact on which hardware is selected to ensure smooth operation of the unit.
PRICE
Bifolds are typically much more expensive that French doors. The running gear and folding hardware often adds over a $1000 +GST to each small unit and considerably more when larger. As the range is extensive they can start around $3000 +GST and go as high as $12000 +GST depending on the configuration and size.
SIZE & PANELS
The width of the opening will dictate how many panels you have. Three panels is the most popular choice for doors and four panels for windows. With a three panel unit one panel can act as a regular single door with the other two panels on a sliding bifold system.