Cookies 🍪

This site uses cookies that need consent.

Cookies

27TH JUNE 2025

BI-FOLD VS. FRENCH DOORS: WHICH DOOR IS RIGHT FOR YOUR HOME?

Has the warmer weather got you thinking about bringing the outdoors inside? Here, we talk you through two of the most popular door options for your home.

With the UK summer making a welcome appearance this year, compared to last year’s washout, all this warm weather brings to mind the pleasures of outdoor entertaining. And when the opportunity arises to make use of your outdoor spaces, one of the first things that comes to mind is doors that open onto your patio and garden.

We specialise in premium-quality versions: French and bi-fold doors - two elegant options that suit different homes and lifestyles, and which bring all the advances in glazing and locking technology to deliver energy efficiency and high levels of security to your property. But how do you choose between them?

Here’s a breakdown of the key benefits of both, from style and usability to safety and security.

Bi-fold doors: modern, flexible, and perfect for open-plan living

Thanks to many TV makeover programmes, and extensive promotion, bi-fold doors have become a go-to feature in contemporary home extensions. They consist of multiple panels that fold back neatly, opening up an entire wall to the garden or patio.

Why choose bi-fold?

  • Maximise light and space – With slim frames and large glass panels, aluminium bi-fold doors flood your home with daylight.

  • Uninterrupted flow – When fully open, there’s no barrier between indoors and out - ideal for summer living and entertaining. Often used in kitchen, dining room and garden room spaces.

  • Flexible configurations – Choose how many panels you want, which way they fold, and how far they open.

Security and safety, without compromising on style

Our bi-fold doors come with high-security multi-point locking systems, toughened or laminated glass, and smooth, safe tracking mechanisms, making them a great option for family homes, and creating a very distinctive architectural style statement.

Before investing in this particular style of door, we would come and measure your property and make a general assessment of the layout to ensure you’re making the right choice.

French doors: classic style, modern performance

French doors are a timeless choice, particularly suited to traditional homes and smaller openings. With their iconic double-door design, they offer elegance and practicality in equal measure.

Why choose French?

  • Traditional charm – Perfect for period properties or anyone who loves a more classic look.

  • Simplicity and ease – No folding or tracking needed, just open and close with a swing.

  • Great for smaller spaces – Ideal for garden rooms, balconies, or more compact extensions. Can be used downstairs and on upper floors, where they are fitted with a Juliet balcony - in effect, a safety railing.

Security & safety

Our UPVC and composite doors are fitted with secure locking mechanisms, reinforced frames, and energy-efficient glazing. They’re built to keep your home safe, warm, and stylish.

French windows or bi-fold? - the pros and cons at a glance.

Feature

Bi-fold Doors

French Doors

Style

Contemporary, sleek

Classic, symmetrical

Opening

Wide opening, folds back fully

Central opening, swings open

Best For

Open-plan living, large openings

Traditional homes, smaller spaces

Security

Multi-point locks, strong frames

Modern locking systems, tough glass

Light

Excellent natural light

Great, though with more framing

Maintenance

More moving parts

Simple hinged opening

Expert craftsmanship and installation

We design and manufacture all our French and bi-fold doors in-house to the highest standards.

Every set is made to measure, with premium materials, durable finishes and advanced glazing options for maximum performance and style.

Not sure which door suits your space? Whatever you choose, we know it’s a major investment in your property. So, we need to get it right.

Recently had new French windows, composite doors and roofline fitted by Lockwood. Excellent quality and strong sound locking mechanisms. No issues at all from ordering to fitting. Very good value for money. Would definitely recommend.

Paul Shaw

Contact us or visit our showroom so that we can help you find a solution that works beautifully with your home.

Call us today on 01484 519667.

Related Blogs

REQUEST A QUOTE

To help us get as a detailed a picture as possible about your requirements, please complete this form with as much information as you can. The more details you can provide the better!

*Relax, your data's safe with us.

DOORS

WINDOWS