Common Problems With Bifold Doors And How To Fix Them
Bifold doors are becoming a popular addition to living rooms, kitchens and bedrooms — and it’s easy to see why. With their sleek design and ability to let in plenty of natural light, they’re ideal for creating a sense of space. You’ll usually find bifold doors made from materials like wood, aluminium and uPVC, meaning they can fit any style preference.
However, while bifold doors are a versatile choice for all kinds of properties, there are a few maintenance tips to bear in mind. Let’s take a look at some common problems that can arise with bifold doors — and how to fix them.
How do bifold doors work?
Bifold doors offer a great solution to bring more light into a home and create a seamless connection to the outside. They consist of multiple panels connected by hinges that fold in a concertina fashion, allowing them to stack neatly to one side when opened. As a result, they’re an excellent choice for smaller rooms. The doors operate on a top and bottom track system, with a wheel mechanism that facilitates smooth gliding motion.
How long do bifold doors last?
When investing in bifold doors, it's natural to wonder about their lifespan. With proper care and maintenance, bifold doors can last for many years, providing you with long-lasting functionality and aesthetic appeal. The lifespan of bifold doors primarily depends on factors such as the quality of materials, installation craftsmanship, and the level of care given. High-quality materials will extend the life of your doors, so consider investing in aluminium or uPVC bifold doors.
However, it's important to complete regular maintenance on bifold doors to help extend their lifespan. Cleaning the tracks and hinges, lubricating the moving parts, and addressing any issues promptly are essential steps to ensure optimal performance. While there is no definitive timeframe, a well-maintained bifold door can easily last for 20 years or more.
At Flying Doors, we pride ourselves on crafting long-lasting bifold doors using high-quality materials. We manufacturer all our doors and windows in the UK and offer a 10-year guarantee.
Common problems with bifold doors
Although there are many benefits to bifold doors, such as increasing the value of your home, there are a few common issues to be aware of. Luckily, most of these are very easily fixed. You can also avoid the following problems by ensuring you opt for high-quality doors from a trusted supplier and get them properly installed by an expert.
Stiff doors
Is it taking a lot of effort to open your bifold doors? Stiffness is perhaps the most common bifold door problem. Fortnautely, it should be an easy fix.
Stiff doors can be caused by a lack of lubrication in the tracks and hinges. So, begin by thoroughly cleaning the tracks to remove any dirt or debris that may be hindering smooth movement. Once the tracks are clean, apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks and hinges. This will help reduce friction and allow the doors to glide effortlessly. Be sure to wipe off any excess lubricant to prevent accumulation of dust or debris.
If the doors are still stiff, check the alignment of the panels.
Misalignment
Misalignment is another frequent issue you may encounter with bifold doors. It can cause difficulty in smoothly opening or closing the doors, as there may be a problem with how the tracks are lined up to the runners. Fortunately, there are solutions to fix this problem. The first step is to inspect the hinges and tracks for any signs of misalignment. If you notice any loose screws, tighten them to ensure a secure fit. Sometimes, misalignment can be caused by debris or dirt build-up in the tracks. Cleaning the tracks thoroughly with a soft brush or cloth can often resolve this issue.
If the misalignment persists, you may need to adjust the hinges. Do so by carefully loosening the hinge screws and gently repositioning the door panels until they align correctly. Remember to tighten the screws afterwards to secure the alignment.
Addressing the misalignment as soon as you notice it will lower the risk of further damage and allow you to open your doors smoothly and easily.
Tried these steps and still seeing problems? If the misalignment continues, it may be time to call an expert in to take a look and potentially replace them.
Faulty locks or handles
Dealing with faulty locks or handles on bifold doors can be frustrating. Not only do they make opening and closing your doors trickier but they could also compromise your home’s security. As such, it’s essential to address any lock or handle problems as soon as possible.
If you notice that the locks are not engaging or the handles are loose, the first thing to do is check for any visible damage or loose screws. Tighten any loose screws and ensure that the components are properly aligned.
Are the locks or handles are damaged beyond repair? Consider replacing them with new ones that are compatible with your bifold doors. It's important to choose high-quality locks and handles that provide reliable security and smooth operation. If you're unsure about the replacement process, it is best to consult a professional installer who can guide you on the best type of locks or handles to use and ensure that they are installed correctly.
Drafty bifold doors
Experiencing drafty bifold doors can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, especially when you strive to maintain a cosy and energy-efficient living space, particularly during colder months. Thankfully, there are effective remedies available to tackle this common issue head-on. Begin by identifying the precise areas where drafts are entering and thoroughly examine the door frames and the spaces between the door panels, for any gaps or cracks.
Weatherstripping can be a great solution for sealing these openings. If you notice worn-out weatherstripping, promptly replace it with new, high-quality seals specifically designed for bifold doors. You could also add draft excluders or door sweeps along the bottom of the doors to effectively prevent cold air from infiltrating.
Another option involves the installation of secondary glazing or insulating film on the glass panels, which significantly enhances insulation. If, despite your efforts, the draft or condensation on the bifold doors problem persists, it might be wise to seek professional assistance to ensure proper installation and sealing, thereby eliminating the drafts once and for all.
Flying Doors: bespoke bifold doors at trade prices
Here at Flying Doors, we pride ourselves on our quality products and excellent customer service. If you are considering bifold doors, why not try our online tool to get made-to-measure bifold doors that are the perfect fit for your house at the best price? Or read about which blinds are suitable for bifold doors in your home? We also offer a 10-year guarantee, meaning that if you experience any of the problems we have listed above our experts will be happy to help you. For more information, contact our expert sales team.