What determines the quality of aluminium bifold doors?
Alexandra works in the marketing department, and in 2014, bought her first house, which turned out to be somewhat of a ‘project’. Since then, the whole house has needed renovating, which has helped her gain a knowledge of basic DIY, decorating and making the best of a small space.
Aluminium bifold doors offer a sleek and practical way to connect indoor and outdoor spaces. However, not all aluminium bifold doors are created equal. The quality of these doors can significantly impact their performance, longevity, and aesthetic appeal.
Here, we explore the key factors that define the quality of aluminium bifold doors, helping you make an informed decision when selecting a supplier to work with.
In this guide:
Read the importance of your material choice and the benefits of aluminium.
We take you through the different security features to look for in bifold doors to supply.
Find out how to choose a thermally efficient bifold door.
Read what factors ensure maximum functionality.
Read what aesthetics you can choose from.
Read how to choose the best-quality bifold doors.
We answer common queries on high-quality bi-fold doors.
Why does the quality of aluminium matter?
The foundation of a high-quality aluminium bifold door lies in its materials. Premium-grade powder-coated aluminium offers a combination of lightweight construction and exceptional strength for homeowners. High-quality aluminium frames are designed to withstand frequent use and are resistant to warping or bending over time, ensuring smooth operation and a consistent fit. Powder-coated doors provide a durable and robust finish, which is particularly important in areas with harsh weather conditions.
Read our guide to the benefits of supplying aluminium bifolds here.
Considering bifold door security features
One of the most critical aspects of any door is its ability to protect your customer’s property. High-quality aluminium bifold doors come equipped with advanced security features to keep intruders at bay. Key considerations include:
- Multi-point locking systems: These mechanisms secure the door at multiple points along the door, making it difficult for intruders to force entry. Furthermore, barrels that are anti-snap, anti-pick, and anti-drill add an extra layer of protection. At Origin, our bi-fold doors can feature a unique 8-point locking system which not only conforms to the latest security standards including PAS 24:2016 but also achieves Secured by Design status.
- Secure handle designs: When looking to specify high-quality bifold doors, you should look for doors with handles that have a solid-cast body secured with hardened metal bolts.
Also look for:
- Cylinder type – some are anti-drilling, picking and bumping
- Chamfered backplate – deters thieves from detaching the handle by using clamps or mole grips
- Flexing ball joints – prevents fixing screws from being removed
- High-quality handles will have been put through advanced strength examinations and cycle tests to confirm that they can withstand any level of force applied without showing signs of breakage. Read our full guide to bifold door locks and handles to find out more.
- Toughened glass: Using strong, toughened glass enhances security while maintaining visibility and style. Options like toughened or tempered safety glass offer superior strength and safety. These types of glass are less likely to shatter, providing peace of mind and enhanced durability for your customers.
- Secure frames: A well-designed aluminium frame works in tandem with locking systems to create a robust barrier against potential threats.
These features ensure that bifold doors offer your customers peace of mind without compromising on usability or style. Read about what makes aluminium a high-quality bifold door material here.
Thermal efficiency and weatherproofing
Energy efficiency is a growing concern for homeowners, and aluminium bifold doors can play a significant role in reducing heat loss and improving a home’s thermal performance. High-quality aluminium bifold doors incorporate:
- Thermal breaks: These doors feature an insulating barrier between the interior and exterior aluminium sections, minimising heat transfer and enhancing energy efficiency.
- Sealing systems: Advanced seals and gaskets prevent drafts and water ingress, ensuring a home remains comfortable and weatherproof.
- Double or triple glazing: Supplying doors with quality double or triple-glazing further improves insulation, reducing energy bills and maintaining a consistent indoor temperature for homeowners.
These features not only enhance comfort but also contribute to a more sustainable and cost-effective home. Choosing to supply doors with excellent thermal efficiency can also help improve your reputation as a supplier.
“Thermal performance and security is exceptional” - Arron Shaw, Sales Manager at HBD Systems, 15-year Origin partner
Functionality and user experience
The functionality of aluminium bifold doors is another defining factor of their quality. High-quality doors are designed for effortless operation, with features that enhance the user experience:
- Precision-engineered trolleys and carriages: Smooth-running tracks and quality running gear ensures that the doors glide open and close with ease, even after years of use.
- Adjustable hinges and tension systems: These components allow for fine-tuning, ensuring the doors remain perfectly aligned and easy to operate.
- Innovative additions: Features or options such as low-threshold designs add convenience and accessibility.
By focusing on these details, high-quality manufacturers such as Origin create doors that are a pleasure to use and maintain.
Become an Origin Partner today and provide your customers with durable, high-quality doors.
Aesthetics and design flexibility
The visual appeal of aluminium bifold doors is undeniable, but quality doors go beyond looks. Aluminium doors offer a range of customisation options to suit any design preference:
- Colours and finishes: From classic white to contemporary matt black, high-quality doors are available in a variety of colours and finishes. Powder-coated options provide a durable and flawless appearance. Suppliers such as Origin also offer colour-matched handles to match or contrast the colour of your customers’ bifold doors.
- Configurations: When you supply Origin Bifold Doors, homeowners can choose the number of panels, opening directions, and size required to fit their space pace perfectly.
Whether your customer prefers a modern minimalist look or something more traditional, quality bifold doors can be tailored to match their specific style and needs.
Read how to choose the best-quality bifold doors to supply.
Choosing high-quality aluminium bifold doors to supply
Selecting the best aluminium bifold doors to supply requires careful consideration. Here are some tips to ensure you make the right choice:
- Trusted brands: Look for manufacturers with a proven track record of quality and reliability.
- Certifications: Ensure the doors meet industry standards, such as PAS 24 for security, or low U-Values for energy efficiency. Consider sustainability and quality accreditations.
- Consider durability and performance: Excellent durability and performance makes bifold doors a worthwhile investment for customers in the long run. Considering this provides peace of mind that your customers’ doors will last and stand the test of time.
Read our complete guide to choosing the best-quality bifold doors to supply.
“If you are considering working with Origin – do it, you’ll never look back”
Are you interested in working with Origin? Read more about becoming an Origin Partner here.
The benefits of being an Origin Partner
When you choose Origin, you will enjoy comprehensive and well-designed sales and marketing materials, and we will also offer support from our marketing team, to ensure you are provided with all the necessary information. In addition to this, Origin offers a simple online quotation and ordering system that allows you to build a completely bespoke project and quote in minutes. We also provide in-depth technical support, of which is readily available for our Trade Partners.
Partnering with a well-recognised nationwide brand such as Origin will also make your offering more competitive and attractive, ensuring you stand out from the crowd. Are you interested in working with Origin? Read more about becoming a Trade Partner here.
Frequently asked questions
Are aluminium bifold doors energy efficient?
Modern aluminium bifolds are thermally efficient, especially when equipped with thermally broken frames and double or triple glazing to minimise heat loss.
What security features should you look for?
Multi-point locking systems, anti-tamper locks and cylinders, toughened glass, and secure frames are essential for maximum security.
How can aluminium bifold doors be maintained?
Regular cleaning with non-abrasive products and occasional lubrication of tracks and hinges will keep them in excellent condition.
Can customers customise aluminium bifold doors?
High-quality doors offer a range of customisation options, including colours, finishes, and configurations.