By Now Aluminium
Bifold doors are a popular choice for homeowners who want to create a smooth flow between their indoor and outdoor spaces. They have a luxurious and elegant design that lets in plenty of natural light, and are therefore perfect for those sunny summer days.
But when the temperature drops here in the UK, a lot of people start wondering: Do bifold doors keep your home warm?
In this guide, we’ll dive into how bifold doors can help trap the heat and keep your home cosy and energy-efficient during the winter months, so you can stay comfy all year round.
What Makes a Door Thermally Efficient?
A thermally efficient door is one that helps keep the warmth in and the cold out. There are a few key factors that contribute to a door being thermally efficient:
- Sealing: High-quality seals and weatherstripping stop drafts and prevent drafts from sneaking in.
- Glazing: Double or triple glazing with low emissivity coatings helps trap heat inside and keeps your home warmer.
- Frame Materials: Some materials, like uPVC or thermally broken aluminium, are better at insulating and keeping the warmth in.
- U-Value: This measures how well the door keeps heat in. The lower the U-value, the better it is at insulating.
Are Bifold Doors Thermally Efficient?
Yes, modern bifold doors are designed with thermal efficiency in mind. Unlike older models, today’s bifold doors feature advanced glazing, insulated frames, and airtight seals. These elements work together to reduce heat loss, helping your home stay warm in winter while also improving energy efficiency.
Factors That Will Impact How Well Bifold Doors Keep Your House Warm
The thermal performance of bifold doors depends on several factors:
Installation Quality
Poor installation can create gaps and misalignments in your doors. This then leads to drafts, leaks and can even cause your doors to rattle in the wind.
Frame Material
Aluminium, when thermally broken, is highly efficient, but uPVC also provides excellent insulation.
Sealing Efficiency
Proper weatherstripping and gaskets are crucial to maintaining airtight seals.
Size of Glass Panels
Larger glass panels allow for solar gain but must have efficient glazing in order to retain heat.
How Does Glazing Impact Thermal Efficiency?
Glazing plays a significant role in bifold door insulation. Having doubled or even triple glazed doors creates a layer of insulation between the glazing. This insulation acts as a barrier that slows down the transfer for heat (both hot and cold).
What About Thermally Broken Doors?
Thermally broken doors use a material like polyamide to separate the interior and exterior aluminium frames. This thermal break reduces the conduction of heat, making the doors highly energy efficient.
Other Ways to Keep Your House Warm
In addition to installing thermally efficient bifold doors, here are other ways to retain warmth in your home:
- Insulate Your Home: Invest in wall, roof, and loft insulation to reduce overall heat loss.
- Seal Gaps: Use weatherstripping around windows and doors to eliminate drafts.
- Upgrade Heating Systems: A modern, energy-efficient heating system can make a big difference.
- Prevent Condensation: Condensation can damage your doors and windows making them susceptible to insulation problems.
Summary
Bifold doors are not just a summer luxury—they can also keep your house warm during winter. Modern bifold doors, particularly those made from thermally broken aluminium, feature advanced glazing, insulation materials, and airtight seals to prevent heat loss.
If you’re looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency, bifold doors are an excellent choice. Combine them with additional insulation measures, and you’ll enjoy a cosy, warm home all winter long.
For more information, explore our range of Aluminium Bifold Doors and get your own bespoke quote today.
