Over the past decade bifold doors have become a go-to option for transformative home improvements in the UK and, despite the growth of ultra-slim sliding doors, bifolds are set to remain a key trend for new homes and redevelopments in the coming years. Grand View Research estimates that the UK bifold doors market will grow by 6.1% annually between 2025 and 2030 – with a particular focus on smaller apertures.
But why are bifold doors so popular? Simply, they offer a unique blend of function, style and efficiency that traditional building methods cannot match.
From creating a seamless connection between inside and out, to security and value, this guide will identify the key benefits of choosing and installing bifold doors.
The main appeal of bifold doors lies in their ability to create a seamless connection between the home and the garden.
By breaking down the physical boundary between inside and out, they allow natural light to flood in, creating a brighter, more inviting space and helping even smaller rooms feel larger and more open. Unlike traditional patio doors, which typically limit the size of the opening, aluminium bifold doors are designed to maximise both light and views.
“Bifold doors are the ultimate way to ‘bring the outside in.’ When fully opened, the panels fold and stack neatly to one side, opening up almost 100% of the aperture,” says IDSystems Technical Sales Manager Edward Stobart.
“This creates a seamless, unobstructed flow between your home and garden, perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or simply enjoying a feeling of open-plan living.”
For a truly barrier-free transition, you can opt for a low-threshold track, which sits level with your internal and external flooring to create a step-free connection between inside and out.
With more glass, a common concern is whether bifold doors are secure. Thankfully, we engineer our modern, high-quality systems with security as a top priority.
All of IDSystems’ aluminium bifold doors meet PAS 24 security testing standards and comply with Building Regulations Document Q.
Our bifold doors feature sophisticated security, including:
Technical Sales Manager Edward Stobart, says “Our doors set the standard for security before the security provision was added to Building Regulations back in 2015. When it comes to independent testing it isn’t just a badge; it’s a commitment to security because we know that complete peace of mind is what matters to our customers.
“When you invest in a certified system, you are installing a formidable barrier against potential intruders.”
For more security tips, read our guide ‘How to make patio doors more secure’.
Bifold doors can be incredibly energy efficient, with our SF75eco system leading the way. Capable of achieving Passivhaus standards of thermal performance the system doesn’t just look good when open in summer, it performs perfectly in winter when the doors are closed.
High-performance glass and thermally broken aluminium frames work together to keep heat in during winter whilst glass specifications with solar control coatings prevent overheating in summer, helping to reduce your energy bills and get the most out of the energy you do use.
“A key factor in efficiency is the ‘U-value,’ which measures heat loss. A lower number means better insulation,” explains Edward Stobart. “Current UK building regulations require a U-value of 1.4 W/m²K or less. Our SF75eco bifold door, with triple glazing, can achieve an incredibly low U-value of just 0.8 W/m²K, far exceeding the standard and ensuring your home stays comfortable, whatever the weather.”
Compared to other patio door styles, bifolds are exceptional space-savers. Their unique concertina-style folding mechanism means the panels stack neatly to the end of the frame, folding back on themselves and taking up minimal room while maximising the opening.
This is a key advantage over sliding doors, which can leave at least half of the opening covered by a fixed panel. Despite their impressive looks, French doors require significant clearance either inside or outside for the doors to swing open.
“The ‘magic’ of a bifold is in the fold. A 4-metre sliding door will always leave you with a 1.33 metre fixed panel. A 4-metre bifold, however, stacks away to just a few centimetres, giving you a complete, uninterrupted opening. For projects where aperture size is key, bifolds and slide & turn doors excel.” says Edward Stobart.
One of the major benefits of bifold doors is the variety of panel combinations they provide, meaning you can move beyond the simple, traditional choice of ‘open or closed’.
“On a warm day, you can open one panel to let in a refreshing breeze. And when you need to, folding the entire system back creates that seamless transition between inside and out.” Says Edward Stobart.
Another convenient option is to include a single access door in your configuration. This operates like a traditional back door, allowing you to quickly and easily pop in and out without folding the entire set of panels. This gives you the best of both worlds: a convenient, traditional door for daily use and a stunning full-width opening when you need it.
Bifold doors are surprisingly low maintenance, especially when you choose a high-quality aluminium system like the SF75eco.
IDSystems’ aluminium bifold doors are finished with a durable powder coating, which provides additional protection from the elements, as well as the choice of over 200 RAL colours to make your bifolds as unique as you.
“Clients are often surprised by just how little upkeep our aluminium bifolds need,” says Edward Stobart. “Unlike timber, which needs regular sanding and repainting, or uPVC’s higher thermal expansion, our powder-coated aluminium finish is designed to withstand the British weather for decades. A simple wipe-down is genuinely all it takes.”
Finally, installing bifold doors is a smart financial investment. As we have identified, improved energy efficiency, significant visual appeal, and the durability of an aluminium frame are upgrades to your home that will still be effective in decades to come. Property experts consistently state that high-quality bifold doors can add between 5% and 10% to a home’s value.
“It’s not just about aesthetics”, says Edward Stobart, “ it’s about investing in your lifestyle and your property’s future. Buyers are drawn to the ‘wow factor,’ the enhanced light, and the premium, modern feel aluminium bifold doors provide. It’s an upgrade that delivers a strong return, both financially and in your daily enjoyment of the home.”
From transforming your living space with light to improving your home’s security, energy efficiency, and market value, the benefits of bifold doors are clear. They are a long-lasting, low-maintenance, and flexible solution that truly enhances the way you live in your home.
Ready to explore the options for your project? You can explore our full range of award-winning bifold doors, discover our virtual showroom, or get in touch to request a quote for your project.