Aluminium Bi-Folding Doors - Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the common questions we get asked. If your question isn't listed here then call, fax or e-mail us.
For e-mail issues please click here.

Q What are the U Values for your doors?
With a double glazed, argon filled, softcoat, 28mm unit they have a centre pane value of 1.2 and a U Value of 1.9.
With this glazing they are compliant to L1a, L2a, L1b and L2b of Building Regulations Doc L - April 2006.

Q Do you do PVCu bi-fold doors?
Yes, we are now offering a PVCu bi-fold door - although with a few restrictions on maximum sizes. As manufacturers of both PVCu and Aluminium products and based on feedback from our large customer base, we understand both the limitations and strengths of the two materials and will offer both products where appropriate. PVCu bi-folds certainly have some strong points, but they are not for everyone. Our trusted aluminium bi-folding doors we feel are still the premier product - although they do cost more than the PVCu equivalent.

Q Can I have more than 6 panels?
Yes, but our standard designs have a maximum of 6 panels. If you require more than 6 panels then a surcharge will apply.

Q My opening is less than 1400mm wide - can I have a bi-fold?
No, the smallest opening is 1400mm - this is because each sash has a minimum width of 700mm.

Q My opening is greater than 6000mm wide - can I have a bi-fold?
Yes, the largest standard opening is 6000mm - this is because standard aluminium bar length is 6500mm. We can source bar lengths greater than 6500mm to accommodate wider openings - but a surcharge will apply.

Q What thickness double glazed units can I have and can I have single glazing?
You can have between 6mm and 35mm units. We can supply the doors unglazed, single glazed or double glazed. Specialist glazing such as anti-sun can also be specified.

Q Do you do colours other than white?
Yes. As standard we offer white and silver anodised, but can supply them in any RAL colour. You can mix the colours too - e.g. brown on the outside and white on the inside.
We also offer 10 different woodgrain designs - from beech through to walnut.

Q Can your doors fold in or out?
Yes. You can choose if you would like the panels to fold and open inwards, or fold and open outwards.

Q Do you do a low threshold option?
Yes. We offer a standard threshold which is 63mm high, or a low threshold which is 30mm high. The standard threshold offers the best weather performance, with the low threshold best suited to internal applications. You may be able to use the low threshold for exterior applications in sheltered areas.

Q Do I have to slide all the panels open to use the door?
No. A traffic door allows you to use the door without folding the panels. We recommend you have a traffic door if possible as it allows you operate the door 'normally' during the winter months - when you don't want to fold the door fully open.

Q If I order today how long will they take to arrive?
Generally 2-3 weeks after you have signed off your design - but please check when ordering as lead time will vary. If you have chosen a RAL colour then this will typically increase the lead time by a couple of weeks.

Q Where do you deliver to and how much is delivery?
Our standard delivery area and price are shown on our delivery page. Outside of this area the cost depends on the distance from our Head Office in Essex and order value. Please ask for a delivery quotation if you are outside our standard area, or you can of course also collect/arrange collection yourself. Most doors come pre-assembled unglazed and you have the option of us supplying the glazing or you sourcing it.

Q Do you have the sight lines showing the distance between each pane of glass?
The size of the profile combination of the panel/mullion/panel, glass to glass is 189mm, for a pair of joining panels.
We have technical drawings for download on the bi-fold web pages too.

Q If i buy a 6 panel bifold door can i choose which side to have the master door installed?
Yes you do have the choice of which side you want the master do on, you will just need to let us know when you come to order the door.