Maximising Natural Light and Indoor-Outdoor Flow with Bi-Fold Doors
Bi-fold doors are a beautiful addition to any home. They allow you to fill your home with natural light whilst creating an open plan living space which flows with ease from the indoors to the out. This blog will explore the design, configuration, glazing and materials of bi-fold doors.
Why Natural Light and Indoor-Outdoor Flow Matter in Modern Homes
Natural light is a fantastic mood enhancer, brightening your day as well as your home. With light also comes heat. By increasing the amount of natural light throughout your home, you will also boost warmth and reduce energy consumption.
Opening your home, as well as enhancing the flow between the indoors and out, helps to maximise your living space, giving you more room to live. Combining style, security, and functionality, bi-fold doors are a brilliant way of both enhancing natural light and creating open plan living.
How Bi-Fold Doors Enhance Natural Light
There are several factors that will affect the amount of natural light which comes through a bi-fold door. The size of the frames and panes of glass, together with orientation, will all impact light levels.
Slim Frames and Large Glazed Panels
Most bi-fold doors will have very slim frames compared to standard doors. This allows for larger panes of glass to be used, which in turn allows more light to penetrate your home. Slim frames and maximum glazing also allow for more uninterrupted views.
Optimal Door Placement and Orientation
The placement and orientation of your bi-fold door will have a significant impact on the amount of light it lets in. For example, positioning a bi-fold door in an area of high light or facing south will ensure it captures the maximum amount of natural light. The position of your door will also have an impact on the flow of a room. Considering carefully where to place your new door will ensure that your living space flows naturally from one room to another, or from the inside to the out.
Glazing Options for Maximum Light Efficiency
The glazing you choose may have an impact on the amount of natural light which is let in. Your first decision will be to choose between double or triple glazing. Neither option will influence the light efficiency, but they will have an impact on heat efficiency. Whilst double glazing is highly effective, triple glazing is stronger and, due to the extra pane of glass, more energy efficient. It can help retain warmth without compromising on light.
You may be offered glazing with a Low-e Coating. This coating is a layer of metal and silver applied to the surface of the window, which is so thin it cannot be seen. Its aim is to reflect more thermal energy and reduce heat loss from a room. Again, this does not affect the amount of light that is let in.
Whilst most glazing options will not impact the amount of light allowed into your home, it is worth researching the options available to ensure you choose the most energy efficient.
Creating a Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Connection
Bi-fold doors are the perfect way of creating a stylish flow through your home, as well as a seamless interior-exterior connection. They allow you to make the most of your space, whether that is for relaxing, entertaining, or work.
Configurations That Improve Flow and Access
There are many different configurations your new bi-fold door can have. For example, the number of panels and the way the door folds can all be tailored to your home and needs. The size and shape of your home may dictate the size of your bi-fold door, as well as the way they open. It is always advisable to consult the advice of a professional, such as one from National Plastics, to ensure your door is perfectly suited to your house.
Threshold Options for Smooth Transitions
The threshold of a bi-fold door runs along the base of an external doorway. Its main purpose is to provide protection from the elements and prevent them from entering your home. There are two main threshold options; flush and raised.
- Flush thresholds offer the most seamless finish. These thresholds offer a flat surface, which runs from the inside of the home to the outside. This allows you to use the same, or similar, floor covering in both areas creating a seamless flow from one area to another. However, a flush threshold does not provide as much protection from the elements.
- A raised threshold is one which is slightly above the floor level. The height of the threshold will depend on the type of bi-fold door and whilst it doesn't create the same seamless finish as a flush threshold, it does provide more protection from the weather.
The type of threshold you choose will depend on the finish you want and the level of protection your home requires.
Combining Bi-Folds with Outdoor Living Spaces
Bi-fold doors are the ideal way of creating a stylish, yet practical indoor/outdoor space. Combining them with an outdoor living space, such as a patio or deck, allows you to expand your interior living space and make the most of your outdoor area. If you're unsure of how to get the most out of your bi-fold door in terms of bringing the outside in and vice versa, then consulting a professional may be the way forward. Experts, such as those at National Plastics, can help you make the most of your space to create a usable and beautiful area.
Choosing the Right Bi-Fold Doors for Your Home
There are many factors to consider when choosing a new bi-fold door, material, frame finish, glazing, security, and thermal efficiency. However, every home and family is unique, with individual needs. As such, working alongside an expert will help you to evaluate your requirements and select a door that works for you.
Material and Frame Options (e.g. Aluminium vs uPVC)
There are three main types of frame to choose from, timber, uPVC, and aluminium. Each have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Timber
Timber is a beautiful natural choice, which is ideal for traditional or Nordic style homes. They add a warmth as well as style to any home. However, wood needs regular treatments to protect it against the elements. Without this care it can rot, splinter, or split, which not only looks unsightly but can have an impact on a frame's performance.
uPVC
uPVC frames offer a long lasting, durable option. They can withstand all weathers with the minimum of care and maintenance. They are also available in a wide range of colours, which allows you to choose a frame that complements the existing features of your home. However, uPVC frames are slightly thicker than other options, such as aluminium, which can have an impact on the final aesthetic. They can also fade over time, especially if you choose a darker colour.
Aluminium
Aluminium is an extremely strong material, which makes it ideal for use with bi-fold doors. Due to their strength, aluminium frames can be far slimmer than their timber or uPVC counterparts. This gives them a contemporary appearance, whilst maximising the amount of light that can enter the room.
Security and Thermal Performance Considerations
Security and thermal performance are also key considerations for many when buying a new bi-fold door.
- In terms of bi-fold door security, most modern systems will feature a multi-lock system with a variety of locking mechanisms around the door. Choosing a high-quality door will also help to ensure frame stability, which can contribute to the door's security.
- When it comes to thermal efficiency, insulated frames and glazing can make all the difference. As mentioned above, triple glazing will also aid thermal performance.
Speak to National Plastics About Bi-Fold Door Installation
If you're considering a new bi-fold door, National Plastics is the perfect place to start. Our team of professionals are always on hand - either over the phone or face-to-face to answer any questions and offer advice and guidance, whilst our nationwide network of branches offers in store demonstrations and a chance to see our wide range of products for yourself.
Visit Your Local Branch or Call for Expert Advice
To ensure you get the right bi-fold door for your home, choosing a supplier which offers a personalised, expert service is key. National Plastics will provide this. Call our friendly, professional team on 0800 22 77 77 or visit your nearest branch today.
