Bifold vs Sliding Doors: Which One is Better?
Choosing between bifold (concertina doors) and sliding doors can be challenging because both come with unique advantages. Both types of doors are excellent ways to bring lots of natural light into your living space and give your home a modern look. They also help create a smooth flow between your indoor and outdoor areas, making your home feel bigger and brighter.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between bifold and sliding doors. You’ll learn how each type of door works, their pros and cons, and get a clear comparison to help you decide which option is best for your space.
What is a Bifold Door?
A bifold door is made up of several panels connected by hinges that fold and slide along a track, stacking neatly to one or both sides of the opening like an accordion. This concertina-style design allows you to open up a full wall, creating a seamless flow between your indoor and outdoor spaces. Bi-fold doors can start from two panels and extend to larger sets.
Many modern aluminium bifold doors include a traffic door, which can open and lock independently without having to fold all the panels. These doors come in different styles and materials, including wood, aluminum, and uPVC, making it easy to match your home’s look while letting in plenty of light and making your space feel bigger and more open.
Pros of Bifold Doors
- Opens nearly the entire width for maximum airflow
- Has a traffic door for daily access without opening all panels
- Can fold inwards or outwards, depending on the space
- Offers more configuration options than sliding doors
- Multi-point locking system for better protection against forced entry
Cons of Bifold Doors
- Requires space for folding glass panels when fully opened
- More moving parts increase maintenance and adjustment needs
- Generally, it has a higher cost compared to sliding doors
- Frame lines can slightly interrupt the outdoor view
- Installation is more complex and may take longer
What is a Sliding Door?
A sliding door consists of large panels that move horizontally along a track, allowing one panel to slide in front of or behind the other. This sliding door system lets you open part of the doorway without needing extra space for folding panels.
These doors are ideal for areas where you want a sleek, modern look and a clear view of your garden. They are available in a range of styles and materials, such as aluminium, timber, and uPVC. This makes it easy to match your home’s design while bringing in maximum natural light and keeping your living space bright and open.
Pros of Sliding Doors
- Slim frames provide wide, uninterrupted views of your garden
- Requires no swing or stacking space for opening panels
- Smooth sliding motion makes daily use quick and easy
- Fewer moving parts compared to bifold doors for durability
- Easy to maintain with minimal cleaning and adjustments needed
Cons of Sliding Doors
- One panel always remains in place when opened
- Track can collect dust and require regular cleaning
- Fewer configuration options compared to bifold doors
- Larger glass panels may feel less flexible for daily use
- Less airflow compared to bifold doors when partially open
Difference Between Bifold and Sliding Door
To help you decide between bifold or sliding doors, here’s a clear comparison of their key features side by side.
| Feature | Bifold Doors | Sliding Doors |
| Opening Style | Panels fold and stack to one or both sides, creating a wide opening of about 90–98% of the total space. | Panels slide horizontally along a track, with one panel moving behind the other, providing a clear opening of 50–66% depending on the configuration. |
| Flexibility | Limited flexibility for partial openings, as pulling one panel folds the rest, but a traffic door allows single-panel access for daily use. | Offers better flexibility, allowing precise control from small ventilation gaps to full opening, ideal for all weather conditions. |
| Space Requirement | Requires stacking space for opening inwards or outwards, when folded open. It is ideal for larger rooms or open gardens. | Panels slide within their frame, saving internal and external space. It is ideal for smaller homes or areas with less space. |
| Light & Views | Offers panoramic views and maximum light when open, with minimal frame obstruction when closed. | Sliding doors tend to provide wide, uninterrupted views and bright interiors thanks to their large glass panels and slim frames. |
| Style | Flexible, suits modern and traditional homes | Sleek, minimal, ideal for contemporary homes |
| Maintenance | More moving parts to maintain | Fewer moving parts, easier to maintain |
| Cost | Generally, standard sizes are more affordable, but costs increase with additional panels or premium finishes. | It can be more expensive for larger glass panels or premium track systems; cost increases with size and complexity. |
| Security | Multiple locking points across panels provide strong security, but these points increase the maintenance. | Fewer locking points but reinforced frames and anti-lift devices make them more secure, though less strong for large openings. |
| Thermal Efficiency | Energy-efficient with double glazing or triple glazing, but more frame sections reduce heat retention, allowing some heat to escape. | Highly thermally efficient, as it has larger glass panels and fewer frames, resulting in slightly better heat retention. |
| Design | Highly customizable with a variety of glass panels, corner setups, opening directions, colour options, and a traffic door. Ideal for modern, bold, or traditional looks. | Limited to 2–6 glass panels with dual, triple, or pocket track options; available in various colors and finishes. Ideal for sleek, simple, and contemporary looks. |
Final Thoughts
Both bifold and sliding doors offer excellent ways to connect your home with your outdoor space, but each serves different needs and preferences. Bi fold doors are best suited for those who want a full wall opening and flexible access, while sliding doors are ideal for those who prefer uninterrupted views and a modern, space-saving design. When deciding between these door systems, consider factors such as available space, budget, daily usage, and the overall style of your home.
At Emerald Doors, we understand that choosing between bifold and sliding doors is an important decision that impacts both your comfort and your property’s value. Our expert team offers personalized guidance to help you select the perfect bi fold door or sliding door from our wide range, ensuring durability, style, and seamless integration into your home.
FAQs on Sliding Doors vs Bi Fold Doors
Here are some common questions about bifold and sliding doors to help you make the right choice for your home:
Are bifold or sliding doors better?
Not always. Bifold doors are better when you want wide, open spaces, while sliding doors save space and offer uninterrupted views. The choice depends on your space, style, personal preference, and daily use.
How Secure are Bi folding and sliding doors?
Bi-folding and sliding doors are very secure when fitted with quality hardware. They have multi-point locks, toughened or laminated glass, and reinforced frames, keeping your home safe. Both can meet PAS 24 and Secured by Design standards, keeping your home safe while providing easy and quick access.
What are the benefits of aluminium bifold doors?
Aluminium bifold doors are strong, lightweight, durable, and low-maintenance. They have slim aluminium frame that allow for more glass, letting in plenty of natural light, and operate smoothly. Additionally, they can be customized in various colors and sizes to suit both modern and traditional home styles.
What should you look for when buying a sliding patio door?
When buying a sliding patio door, look for smooth operation, durable materials, good insulation, secure locking systems, and low-maintenance finishes. Also consider glass panes, track type, and how it fits your space and overall home design.