Buying patio doors is a superb way to add natural light and bring the outside into your home. You can enjoy big, expansive views of the garden and make your home feel larger with different patio door styles. In our guide to patio door options, we give you information on the differences between types of patio doors. We explore which patio door opening options are best suited to your home and what available styles.

Patio door opening options – what’s the difference?

When comparing new patio doors, the most popular ones are sliding doors and bi-fold patio doors. You will have lots of style and colour choices available to you, but the main difference between these two patio door styles is:

Sliding doors – one or two large panes of glass that slide to the end of a frame
Bi-fold doors – typically fold back on themselves in a concertina style and can have multiple panels

Patio door options – pros and cons

Each of these types of patio doors will enhance the look of your home, but there are some things you need to think about when choosing between patio door styles.

Opening

If you want to be able to open up the most space possible, bi-fold doors are an excellent choice. The doors fold right back, allowing you to open an entire wall to the garden. Sliding doors will slide in front of each other, so you will always have at least one panel within the opening.

Usability

Sliding doors can offer a little more control over usability than bi-fold doors. A sliding door can be opened a little or fully slid back. Bi-fold doors need to be fully folded back when in use, so if you are using them as the main door to the garden, they may not be the best choice. Alternatively, if you love the look of the bi-fold design, you can opt for a traffic door in the configuration.

Thresholds

Depending on the patio door style you choose, there will be a difference in the door’s threshold. Patio sliding doors will usually have a frame that you need to step over. Bi-fold doors are available with flush or low thresholds, making them a great choice if you want a more seamless flow from the interior floor to the outside. Our blog why buy Smarts Visifold 6000 doors has more information on one of our most popular bifold door options.

Security and thermal efficiency

For years, many people have considered patio doors or bi-fold doors as a security risk. However, modern locking systems and innovative manufacturing techniques mean modern patio doors are much more secure. Sliding doors can be slightly more thermally efficient than bi-fold doors. Modern bi-fold doors have been improved to offer a better energy rating than older models.

Ease of use and design

Thanks to modern design and technology, both patio door opening options are easy to use. The mechanisms and fit will allow each type of patio door to glide open with minimal effort. Both styles are available in various materials and colours, so you can find a new patio door that will complement your home perfectly.

Which one is best?

If you are looking for help and advice on choosing the best patio door option for your home, contact us today. Our window experts can visit your home and provide a free quotation. Whether you need replacement windows, a new front door or stylish new patio doors, we can help.