Bifold doors or sliding doors – which works best? In truth, this question is complicated to answer, which is exactly why New Zealand homeowners struggle to choose between a bifold or a sliding door! These doors both have different designs and operating systems, although there are similarities in their appearance. For a detailed exploration into how bifold doors and sliding doors work, and ultimately which is best, read on below.
A bifold door
A bifold door works by having multiple panels that fold against each other, gradually retracting to create a wider and more open-plan living space. They are generally used to connect indoor and outdoor spaces instead of a walls because their extremely popular glass-and-metal construction maximises light. They should stack neatly when opened but do require room to fold, making them inappropriate for smaller spaces. Their frame and track system must also be robust, a complex installation which can also be hard to maintain with prolonged use.
A sliding door
Sliding doors also work by sliding along a track, but their panels glide past one another rather than stack – like the bifold door above. They should slide parallel to the wall and are therefore a perfect installation for small spaces or apartments. This is because they do not take up any additional space at all! Their track system is less complex, but no less robust.
Which is best?
For homeowners who want a door that maximises space in the smallest of areas, with a minimalist look and a vast range of styles, a sliding door is probably best. Of course, we can’t choose between bifold or sliding doors for you, but a sliding door has many competitive edges; it does not protrude into a room once opened, and because it does not have panels that stack or fold, is more likely to avoid damage via wear and tear over time. As an added benefit, sliding doors exist in an impressive range of materials, whereas a bifold door would perhaps be limited. For example, timber sliding doors are a classic – well-loved across New Zealand, and extremely easy to operate!
At Wellington Joinery & Kitchens, we create and install a range of timber sliding doors for customers across New Zealand. Timber sliding doors are perfect for creating a warm, comfortable aesthetic in the home. And, as the article above suggests, they work extremely well! Contact Wellington Joinery & Kitchens for more information about our timber sliding doors, today.
