Making the right choice between bifold and sliding doors can transform how you enjoy your living space. Both options have surged in popularity across the UK, with bifold doors being chosen by 57% of homeowners replacing rear doors in a survey, while sliding doors follow at 31%.
Let’s break down the differences to help you make the perfect choice for your home.
Key Takeaways:
- Bifold doors offer up to 95% opening space with a concertina fold design, while sliding doors maximise glass area with fewer visible frames.
- Consider your space requirements: Bifolds need stacking room when open, while sliding doors operate within their own footprint.
- Both options provide excellent thermal efficiency, with sliding doors offering slightly better views and bifolds providing better indoor-outdoor flow.
How These Doors Actually Work
Bifold doors operate on a concertina principle. Multiple glass panels fold back on themselves along a track, creating a wide opening between your home and garden.
Think of them as elegant glass panels that neatly stack to one side like a paper fan.
Sliding doors consist of large glass panels that glide horizontally along tracks. Usually, at least one panel remains fixed while the others slide behind or in front of it.
Both door types come in various materials, including aluminium, uPVC and timber, with aluminium bifold doors particularly popular for their strength and slim profiles.
Bifold vs Sliding Doors: The Key Differences
Let’s look at how these door types stack up against each other:
| Feature | Bifold Doors | Sliding Doors |
|---|---|---|
| Opening style | Concertina fold | Horizontal slide |
| Maximum opening | Up to 90–95% of aperture | Typically 65% of aperture |
| Space required | Need stacking room to one side | No outward projection needed |
| Frame-to-glass ratio | More visible framing | Larger glass panels, less frame |
| Typical cost (2025) | £1,200–£3,500 (excluding installation) | Often slightly lower for standard sizes |
| Thermal efficiency | U-values between 1.1–1.4 W/m²K | Potential slight edge due to fewer frames |
| Threshold options | Flush threshold possible | Low threshold available (usually 12mm+) |
| Best for | Fully opening up spaces | Maximising views and natural light |
Bifold Doors: Key Benefits and Considerations
The biggest advantage of bifold doors is their ability to open up almost entirely, creating a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors. Perfect for summer entertaining or bringing fresh air into your home.
They’re highly customisable too, with numerous configuration options to suit different openings. Many homeowners appreciate the flexibility of including a “traffic door”, a single panel that opens independently for everyday use.
The downside? You’ll need space for the door panels to stack when opened. And when closed, the multiple frames are more visible than with sliding alternatives.
Sliding Doors: Key Benefits and Considerations
The standout feature of sliding patio doors is their expansive glass panels with minimal framing. This maximises natural light and provides clearer views of your garden year-round.
Because they slide within their own footprint, they don’t require additional space to open. This makes them perfect for smaller patios, balconies or where furniture placement might restrict swing space.
The main limitation is that sliding doors typically only open to about two-thirds of the total width, unlike bifolds, which can open almost completely.
Practical Considerations for Your Home
When choosing between bifold and sliding doors, consider how you’ll actually use the space in your home.
Garden Access and Usage
Think about how you use your garden space. If you frequently entertain outdoors or want a seamless flow between inside and out, bifold doors that open fully might be ideal.
If you primarily value the view and natural light, with occasional access to the garden, sliding doors could be a better option.
Available Wall Space
Do you have room for bifold door panels to stack when open? If space is tight, sliding doors might be more practical since they don’t project into the room or onto the patio.
Weather Considerations
Let’s be honest about the British weather. For much of the year, your doors will remain closed.
During these times, sliding doors offer better views and light transmission due to their larger glass panels and minimal framing.
Building Regulations
Both door types must comply with UK Building Regulations, particularly regarding thermal performance. Current regulations require new installations to have a U-value of 1.6 W/m²K or lower for new dwellings, and 1.4 W/m²K for existing ones.
GT Glazing ensures all their doors meet or exceed these requirements.
Energy Performance and Thermal Efficiency
Both door types can achieve excellent thermal performance, but there are some differences to consider.
Modern bifold doors typically achieve U-values between 1.1 and 1.4 W/m²K with double glazing. Sliding doors often range from 1.4 to 1.6 W/m²K.
However, sliding doors may have a slight thermal advantage due to fewer frames and seals, which can reduce heat loss. The large glass panels can also contribute to passive solar gain in winter.
Both types must comply with UK Building Regulations, which require new installations to achieve U-values of 1.6 W/m²K or lower for new dwellings.
Bifold or Sliding Doors? Make Your Decision
Choose bifold doors if:
- You want to fully open up your space for seamless indoor-outdoor living
- You have room for the panels to stack when opened
- You prioritise flexibility in opening configurations
Choose sliding doors if:
- You want maximum glass and minimum frame when doors are closed
- You have limited space for door clearance
- You prefer a more minimalist look with larger glass panels
Remember that both options can be tailored to suit your home’s style and your personal preferences.
Why Choose GT Glazing for Your Door Installation
GT Glazing specialises in both bifold and sliding door installations across St Albans and surrounding areas.
Our team takes pride in delivering 5-star service from your initial enquiry through to the final installation. We’ll guide you through all the options, including materials, colours, configurations and glazing choices.
Final Note
The right choice ultimately depends on your home, lifestyle, and preferences. Neither option is universally “better” it’s about finding what works for your unique situation.
Ready to explore your options with expert advice?
Contact GT Glazing for a free, no-obligation quote and consultation. Our friendly team is here to help you make the perfect choice for your home.
