Expert guidance to help you choose the perfect doors for your home

How They Work

Bifold doors consist of multiple panels that fold back on themselves, concertina style, and stack neatly to one or both sides of the opening. They run on a top and bottom track system and can open almost the entire aperture, often clearing up to 90% of the frame width. This creates a dramatic, wide opening that truly brings the outside in.

Sliding doors feature large panels that glide horizontally along tracks, with one or more panels sliding behind the others. Modern inline sliding systems typically allow around 50% of the opening to be clear at any time, though lift and slide systems can offer larger openings with panels that lift slightly before gliding smoothly along their tracks.

Space Considerations

Bifold doors require room for the folded panels to stack, either inside or outside the property. This makes them better suited to larger openings where the stacked panels will not obstruct pathways, furniture or garden features.

Sliding doors need no additional stacking space as panels simply tuck behind one another within the frame. This makes them ideal for tighter spaces or where furniture is positioned near the opening, and they work particularly well on balconies, terraces and compact gardens.

Thermal Performance

Sliding doors generally offer superior thermal efficiency because they have fewer joints and seals. With only two or three large panels rather than multiple smaller ones, there are fewer opportunities for heat loss or draughts. This can translate to lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment year round.

Bifold doors have more hinges, seals and connection points between panels, which can slightly reduce their thermal performance. However, modern manufacturing techniques and high quality gaskets have improved efficiency considerably, and premium bifold systems now achieve impressive U values.

Price Comparison

For a comparable opening size, sliding doors are typically more cost effective than bifolds. The simpler mechanism and fewer moving parts reduce both manufacturing complexity and installation time. However, the price difference has narrowed in recent years, and the best choice ultimately depends on how you intend to use the space rather than budget alone.

Security Features

Both bifold and sliding doors from Brackenwood come with advanced multi point locking systems as standard. Our doors feature high security hinges, security shoot bolts, and internal beading to prevent the glass being removed from outside. All installations meet or exceed current building regulations for security.

At a Glance Comparison

Bifold Doors

Maximum opening, dramatic impact

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    Opens up to 90% of the aperture
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    Creates seamless indoor outdoor flow
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    Ideal for entertaining and summer living
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    Multiple panel configurations available
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    Open left, right or from centre

Sliding Doors

Elegant simplicity, superior efficiency

  • ✓
    Better thermal performance with fewer seals
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    No stacking space required
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    Clean, uninterrupted sightlines
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    More cost effective for equivalent sizes
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    Perfect for balconies and compact spaces

Which Should You Choose?

Choose Bifold Doors If...

You love entertaining and want to completely open up your living space to the garden during warmer months. Bifolds work wonderfully when you have the space for panels to stack and want that dramatic, wide opening that truly removes the boundary between indoors and out. They are particularly suited to kitchen diners, living rooms and orangeries where you want flexibility in how much of the opening to use.

Choose Sliding Doors If...

You prioritise thermal efficiency, have limited space for stacking panels, or want large uninterrupted glass panels for maximum natural light and views. Sliding doors excel in modern, minimalist properties, work brilliantly on upper floors and balconies, and suit any home where clean lines and energy efficiency are priorities. They also tend to be lower maintenance over the long term.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more expensive, bifold or sliding doors?

Sliding doors are typically more cost effective than bifolds for a comparable opening size. The simpler mechanism and fewer moving parts reduce manufacturing and installation costs. However, the price gap has narrowed in recent years and both options offer excellent value.

Are bifold doors less energy efficient than sliding doors?

Sliding doors generally offer slightly better thermal performance because they have fewer joints and seals. However, modern bifold systems with quality gaskets achieve impressive U values and both door types meet current building regulations for energy efficiency.

How much space do I need for bifold doors?

Bifold doors require room for the folded panels to stack when open, either inside or outside the property. As a guide, allow approximately 300mm to 400mm per panel for the stack. Sliding doors need no additional stacking space as panels tuck behind one another.

Can bifold and sliding doors be installed in any opening?

Both door types are highly versatile and can be manufactured to fit most openings. Bifolds suit wider apertures where maximum opening is desired, while sliding doors work particularly well in tighter spaces, on balconies or where furniture sits close to the opening.

Which is more secure, bifold or sliding doors?

Both door types offer excellent security when fitted with quality locking systems. Brackenwood bifold and sliding doors feature multi point locking, high security hinges and internal beading as standard, meeting or exceeding current building regulations.

How long do bifold and sliding doors last?

With proper care, both bifold and sliding doors should last 25 to 30 years or more. Sliding doors have fewer moving parts which can mean less maintenance over time, while bifold doors may require occasional adjustment to hinges and rollers.

Can I have a traffic door with bifold or sliding doors?

Yes, both systems can include a traffic door (sometimes called an access door) which allows you to open a single panel for everyday use without folding or sliding the entire door set. This is a popular option for convenience and energy efficiency.