Bifold doors are on a lot of wish lists, and for good reason. Fold them back on a sunny day and your room and garden become one space. They’re also an investment, and bifold door quotes can vary hugely from one company to the next, even for doors that look the same.
This guide explains the choices that affect bifold door prices, what to check on the quote, and how to make sure you’re comparing the same doors.
Key points
- The number of panels, the frame system and which way they fold are the biggest price factors.
- Aluminium bifolds have slimmer frames and are the most popular choice, but uPVC can work well for smaller openings.
- Check the threshold, traffic door, locks and glass are the same on every quote.
- Many installers use the same bifold systems, so the identical door can often be bought for less.
How bifold doors work
A bifold door is made up of panels that fold against each other and stack to one or both sides of the opening. They run on a track at the top or bottom, with hinges between each panel. Most sets have between two and seven panels, depending on the width of the opening.
Panel count and folding direction
You’ll need to decide how many panels you want and which way they fold: all to the left, all to the right, or split both ways. More panels means narrower panels, more frame and more hardware, which usually costs more.
Traffic door
A traffic door is a panel that opens on its own like a normal door, so you can pop outside without folding the whole set back. It’s very handy for everyday use, especially in winter, and is often worth having. Check whether it’s included on each quote.
Opening in or out
Most bifolds in the UK open outwards, which keeps the room clear and helps with weather sealing. Some people choose inward opening if outside space is tight. Make sure every quote is the same.
Aluminium or uPVC bifold doors?
Aluminium is the most popular choice. Its strength means slimmer frames and larger panels, so you see more glass and less frame. Aluminium bifolds come in a wide range of colours, often with a different colour inside and out.
uPVC bifolds usually cost less. Frames are thicker and panels are usually limited in size, so they suit smaller openings better.
Timber bifolds are also available and look beautiful, but need more maintenance and tend to cost more.
What to check on a bifold door quote
- Overall size, number of panels, folding direction and whether there’s a traffic door.
- The bifold system and frame material, with the colour inside and out.
- Glass: double or triple glazed, toughened safety glass, the energy rating or U-value, and any solar control glass for south-facing rooms.
- Threshold: a low or flush threshold looks great and gives step-free access, but needs good drainage and can cost more.
- Locks and handles: multipoint locking on the traffic door and secure locking on the end panels, plus the handle finish.
- Fitting: removal of your old doors, installation, sealing, trims and making good.
- Certification: replacement doors that are mostly glass need building regulations sign-off, usually through FENSA or CERTASS.
- Structural work: if the opening is being widened, a new lintel or steel may be needed. That’s building work with its own approvals, so make sure it’s priced and explained.
Bifold door red flags
- No system or brand named, so you can’t tell what you’re getting.
- A big discount for signing today.
- Vague lines about “making good” or “structural work as required” with no price.
- No mention of the threshold, drainage or certification.
Bifolds or sliding patio doors?
Bifolds open almost the full width of the opening. Sliding doors give bigger panes and slimmer frames when closed, which is how you’ll see them most of the year. If you’re torn between the two, read our sliding patio door guide. If your bifolds are going into a new conservatory, our guide to types of conservatory covers your options.
How to compare bifold door quotes
- Match the size, panel count, folding direction and traffic door.
- Match the frame material, system, colour and glass.
- Match the threshold, locks, fitting and certification.
- Then compare the final price including VAT, plus the guarantee and lead time.
How BeatMyWindowQuote saves you money on bifolds
Most installers buy their bifolds from trade fabricators who use the same well-known door systems. So the bifold doors on your quote can often be made and fitted by other companies near you, for less.
Upload your bifold door quote and we’ll work out the exact spec, then ask vetted local installers and fabricators to price exactly the same doors. You’ll see the prices side by side, cheapest first, and you choose. Companies never see your name, number or original price, and it’s free for you.
No quote yet? Use our online designer to choose the number of panels, which way they fold and the colours, and we’ll get you 3 quotes. For front doors, see our composite door guide, and for windows, read how to compare window quotes.
Frequently asked questions
How many panels do I need?
It depends on the width of your opening and how wide you want each panel. Wider panels mean fewer frames to look through. Each company will advise at the survey.
Do bifold doors let in draughts?
Good quality, well fitted bifolds seal well. Fitting matters as much as the product, which is why we only use companies with strong reviews and registration.
Do I need planning permission for bifold doors?
Replacing existing doors usually doesn’t need planning permission, but it does need building regulations sign-off. If you’re in a listed building or conservation area, check with your council first. See our doors page and FAQ for more.
