Showing posts with label Bifold. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bifold. Show all posts

Sunday, September 4, 2011

Framed and Frameless Bi-Fold Shower Doors

Bi fold shower doors are those that fold in one place with a hinge, creating two panels. The average width of is a total of 48 inches, the same as the average width of a tub or shower stall. They sit in a track at the top and bottom of the tub or stall in the bathroom, and fold up into about a 4 inch space on either side of the track when opened all the way.

masonite bifold doors

Bi fold doors are normally used in bathrooms or basement areas as a replacement to shower curtains or sliding doors. The sliding type take up more space when open because when open they will still take up 24 inches each, whereas bi fold shower doors only take up about 4 inches when open. This leaves more open area for a person to maneuver into the shower area, and this can be important for those with mobility or weight issues. Prices for bi fold bathroom shower doors will vary based on materials, finishes, installation practices and types of glass.

BIFOLD DOORS

Many professional companies offer the installation of these in the bathroom. Options include accordion style, magnetic enclosures, framed and frameless models as well as different colors and types of glass. The glass used for all shower doors comes in 3 depths: 1/4 inch, 1/8 inch and 3/8 inch. Remember that all shower doors are made of safety glass, therefore just because the door is thicker does not mean it is safer. All are made the same in essence, and the safety glass that the law requires these be made from has to pass the same testing, regardless of the thickness. So if you cannot afford the thicker glass, you will still have the same safety rating.

Glass used in bi fold shower doors ranges from colonial glass and clear glass to beveled glass, frosted and even smoked glass. Mirrored glass can be found and used, but is considered dated and therefore many homeowners do not use this material. Updating your bathroom by the replacement of your shower doors with bi fold can add up to ,100 to the equity of your home. So the small investment made now in the home can be seen for years to come when it is appraised.

Framed bi fold doors look like the sliding kind, except instead of having them slide over and take up 24 inches, they compact down into about 4 inches in width when opened. Frameless shower doors still have the same track at the top and bottom of the area, but are not framed around the glass with metal like what is seen in other framed models. This does not mean that the seal is not present, as many professionals will show you the sealant used to create the invisible bond. When the doors are closed completely, there is no more chance of water escaping from frameless doors than there is with framed doors.

Framed and Frameless Bi-Fold Shower Doors

BIFOLD DOORS

Saturday, September 3, 2011

Bifold Doors - Modern Design Features

Adding bifold doors to your home can not only completely transform your living space, but it can add value to the sale price too. Old-fashioned folding doors would often present many problems to the user. They were difficult to use, not very versatile, short-lived and leaky. Luckily, technology has advanced and the modern bifolding door is far superior to past designs.

bifold doors home depot

Wooden Concertina Doors

BIFOLD DOORS

The wood bi-fold doors of the past would cause issues such as the door sticking, the door rotting, mould growing and frames becoming twisted and out-of-shape. Due to the nature of the wood, changes in temperature cause the wood to warp and bend. This leads to the problem of doors sticking or twisting. Water which becomes trapped in the frame leads to the issues of mould and rotting.

Nowadays, the wood is split into different pieces, placed so the grains run against each other and then glued back together under a high pressure. This process is known as laminating and it prevents the frame from changing shape when exposed to changes in temperature. After being laminated, the wooden frames are then treated with anti-rot and anti-fungal treatments to prevent the issues caused by exposure to water. Modern designs include a water ingress within the frame, which prevents water and condensation from building up internally.

Aluminium Folding Doors

The aluminium bifold doors of the past would be susceptible to frequent build-ups of condensation. As well as this issue with condensation, they were also not very energy efficient.

Modern aluminium bifold door frames are thermally-broken which improves their energy efficiency and reduces the build-up of condensation.

uPVC Folding Sliding Doors

uPVC bifold doors are the best of modern technology. More affordable than the other types of folding door, the uPVC frame provides condensation-free, energy efficient functionality that is versatile and suits many different situations. The easy-to-maintain profiles offer a modern appearance to homes that need smartening up.

Clad Bifolding Doors

Clad bifolding doors are made up of two different materials. The main frame is usually the strongest mater and usually the external side for strength and stability. The cladding is then clipped on to the inside with glazing beads. The example I am going to use today is aluminium and timber clad bifold doors. In this example, the aluminium makes up the main external frame. It provides a strong, secure and virtually maintenance-free exterior, while the wooden interior offers a very attractive appearance. The wooden interior can easily be clipped off, so it can be sanded and repainted or swapped for a whole other species of wood without needing to replace the entire door. This offers a permanent, long-lasting door that can easily be changed to suit your interior style. This is especially useful if you change the style of your interior seasonally, or if you are planning to sell your house and wish to appeal to as wider audience as possible.

In conclusion, bifold doors have improved a lot over the years and now offer an attractive and viable addition to your home that is functional and long-lasting. They can now be used to open up virtually any part of your home or business, inside or out, to create a large, unrestricted entrance.

The range of different materials used in the bifolds of today allows consumers to choose the door which best suits their budget and their situation.

Bifold Doors - Modern Design Features

BIFOLD DOORS

Tips For Buying Bi-Fold Shower Doors

Bi-fold shower doors are doors that fold up with a hinge. Once folded, it creates 2 panels. The standard width of the bi-folds is 48 inches, which is it is equal to the standard size of the shower stall or bathtub. The bi-fold door is usually placed on the track at the base and top part of the bathtub or shower area of the bathroom. This type of door is typically utilized in bathrooms in place of sliding doors or shower curtains. The sliding bathroom door can occupy more area when opened wide and each panel will cover 24 inches on each side.

louvered bifold doors

On the other hand, the bi-fold doors just take up 4 inches in total. With just a small area occupied by the bi-fold door, there is more space for the person to get in or get out of the shower area. This is especially helpful for bathroom users who are overweight or have some sort of mobility problem. The cost of shower doors differ according to finishes, materials used, and the system of installation.

BIFOLD DOORS

When shopping for bi-fold shower doors, some aspects such as the available space in the bathroom, price, and materials used must be given consideration. Obtaining the right type of door will add style and functionality to the bathroom. So, to get correct bi-fold door, here are other things to look at:

1. Style of the bi-fold door
Since these doors will affect the looks of your bathroom, you must also give importance to its design before buying it. There are so many styles and models available in the market today and it's just a matter of choosing the one that will blend well with your bathroom interiors.

2. The dimension of the bathroom and shower enclosure
You must get the precise dimension of your bathroom as well as the shower enclosure. If the available space is limited, the shower enclosure with bi-fold door is the ideal choice for your shower area.

3. Materials used for the bi-fold shower door
Shower doors like the bi-fold type are always exposed to different conditions including humidity and heat. They can also be drizzled with soaps and strong cleaning materials. For this reason, you must choose a shower door that is made from durable materials. Likewise, go for doors that are made from fiberglass or hardened glass.

4. The price
Before you settle for one model of the bi-fold shower door, try to compare prices from different sellers first. Comparing prices will help you get a good deal that will let you save some money. And to make things easier, you can go online where you will come across many sites that offer free price comparisons.

Finally, there are lots of bi-fold shower door sellers who often packaged their items with free installation. You can take advantage of this offer and save on cost and time. And remember, always check the reputation of the retailer from whom you will purchase your door especially if it is an online store. In doing so, you will avoid being scammed or getting items that are not worth what you had paid for.

Tips For Buying Bi-Fold Shower Doors

BIFOLD DOORS

Friday, September 2, 2011

Bifold Closet Doors (Making Your Homes Look Tidy)

In generic terms, closets are any objects which help you to store almost all items of the house which you need, but don't want to put on display unlike other showpieces. This way, you can stock all the essentials at your home such as your clothes, jewelry, school and college books etc, thus making your home look tidier.

bifold doors

A bi-fold closet door is a closet door which has a main frame from which a panel is connected. The panel is connected in such a manner to certain hinges that those hinges fold outward, allowing both inward and outwardly movement through a pivoted end of the hinge. This happens since the doors have the capability to fold and refold.

BIFOLD DOORS

These doors are really mobile, which means that they can be designed according to the size of your closet. If you have a large one, you can give the measurements accordingly. If you're getting your house or your room repainted, you can always get newer closet doors with the color combination you want. Also, you can get lovely shapes. If you have a kid, you will definitely know how much a particular shape and color attracts kids.

There are different varieties of bi-fold closet doors. You generally get the following ones at any furniture shop:
o Flat Panel
o Mirrored
o French door type
o Raised Panel, as opposed to flat ones
o Louvered

The above mentioned styles of bi-fold closets can be fitted in your hall, kitchen etc. However, for your bedroom, you need larger sizes among the varieties mentioned since your bedroom stocks more material such as your personal belongings, personal files, certificates and reports, clothes etc.

For newer designed bedrooms which have particular symmetry, bi-fold closet doors with mirrors are preferable, since they give an elegant look to the whole room, and reflect a nice view as they have mirror on them. It might not give that kind of effect on simple rooms, but a symmetrical room should have mirrored bi-fold doors.

A few benefits that bi-fold closet doors offer, which other simpler doors might not:
1. They make your room look more artistic, making your image as a person of immense interest in architecture!
2. Access to all parts of the closet, since these doors open completely, letting you access any part of the closet easily.
3. More variety ensures that you get the best for your room. You won't have to settle for something that looks odd amidst your well designed room. In fact, this bi-fold closet door will enhance the overall look of your room.
4. You can make them in any pattern you want, making your rooms look pretty.

Every thing which offers advantages offer at least one disadvantage, and same is the case with bi-fold closet doors. Since they have hinges made out of steel and metals, they have a risk of rusting during rains and if used over a long period of time. They have to be replaced timely.

Bifold Closet Doors (Making Your Homes Look Tidy)

BIFOLD DOORS

Installing a Closet Bi-Fold Door

The type of door most often used for closets and other storage areas of the home is the bi-fold door. This door is on sliding track so that one half of the door folds back over the other. You don't need to have the same amount of space as you do with a door that opens in the regular fashion. You don't need to provide for the swing of the door as it opens inwards or outwards. When you open bi-fold doors, you still have access to the full space of the closet.

bifold doors interior

Because of the sturdy track installed on the top edge of the door, it moves from the center to the side of the door opening. You don't need to have a professional perform the installation for you as all the instructions come in the packaging and the only tool you will need is the basic screwdriver. Although doors in this style with louvered slats were once in style, today they come in solid doors in the same designs as the other doors in your home.

BIFOLD DOORS

Make sure you finish or paint the door before you install it because it will be much harder to do once you have it in place. You will have to be mindful of the floor and the painted wall surfaces surrounding the opening. Label the door so that you know which side will be facing outward. Make two measurements - one at 11 inches from the bottom of the door and another 7 inches from the top. Then measure the distance between these tow points to find the center. Place the door on its side so that these marks are facing you.

Now you install the hinges on the door. When you have this completed, you start installing the track on which the door will slide. The diagrams that come with the included hardware have pictures for you to go by when completing this step. For example, you have to screw a pivot plate on the top of the door. This is the section that will fit into the track. Cut the track to the length you need to fit the opening. Slide on the hanging hardware and then attach the track to the door header.

Attach the hinges to the side of the door and slip the pivots into the sliding hardware. Your door is then ready to use.

Installing a Closet Bi-Fold Door

BIFOLD DOORS

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Flexible BiFold Doors, Fusion Styles

Bi-folding doors or folding sliding doors or concertina are mostly constructed from aluminum and are in great demand in UK and Europe for the last two decades. They have been appropriately fitted as an excellent room separator bringing about fusion between the main home structure and the conservatory. It is also relevantly placed on the outside to bring the atmosphere inside the room. The frame design is sleek, compact, lasting and strong and safe. A room fitted with bifold doors, embedded with fusion style will give a feeling of easy breath and space in the room.

bifold doors with glass

In terms of decoration, bifold doors work on the principle of coordination and contrast in harmony and balance mixing with the existing room theme and elements. The fusion of color texture and material can invariably produce wonderful manipulative individual requirement. There is a huge range of bifold doors choice and they give an appearance of sophistication of approximately 127mm of frame supporting the glass. Some of the designs are flexible enough to permit continuous glimpse of the garden or the scene outside. The two segments of the door are steadfast safe and lasting; the traffic panels are equipped with multi apex steel lock for graded high level protection. Shoot-bolts are hidden from view in the in between panels and the system double locking is fitted inside.

BIFOLD DOORS

There are many companies offering the product. The suppliers can be contacted for bifold doors and fusion online or offline. Advice on site is free and the suppliers are approachable and friendly in service. Most of the doors are vertical bi-folding doors and are the doors that close off rooms within a building. There are hinges between the frames for easy movement. The rooms most often fitted with this type of doors are the living area kitchen and the dining room. They are available in metal, fiber glass as well. The exterior look of the house changes for good once these doors are fitted on the exterior. The free visit is no obligation for an order.

Bi-fold door trend has existed for a long time, but is beginning to replace the French doors recently. The dimension of the opening and the largest panel size decide the limitation of the work. It is also the conclusive factor for the portion of the door opening. The doors have the flexibility to swing either way. It has to be decided at the time of fitting whether it will move either ways or one way. The width mostly does not limit the work. The whole panel design and the number of panels become clear on sketching. The supplier usually outlines the structure for the better understanding of the client. The fitting is exact and accurate through skilled workers. These doors are also best suited in tropical climate or on seaside resorts.

Prior to the inception of work the workers check the frames dimensions for standard and accuracy. The frames are fusion welded to make sure that in the eventuality of strong climatic conditions the joints do not give way. They slide smoothly to place when in operation through roller balance.

Flexible BiFold Doors, Fusion Styles

BIFOLD DOORS

Top 5 Places for Bifold Doors

What makes bifold doors the right choice for your home or business? And where exactly in the room can they be best put to use? Although incredibly versatile, practical and attractive, these doors are suited more to some locations than others. To help you choose whether these doors are going to be an advantage to the lay-out of your home or business, we've put together a list of the top 5 uses for them:
Small Units and Apartments: If you live in an incredibly small space, such as a studio apartment or one-bedroom unit, the last thing you need is for your doors to take up more space than necessary. Not only do these doors neatly concertina to provide more space through and around them, they are also an extremely practical and flexible method of temporarily dividing small spaces to create more privacy (to separate a bedroom space in open-plan apartments, for example). Restaurants, Cafés and Boutiques: As any boutique or eatery owner will tell you, the atmosphere of a retail location is only slightly less important than the product. Bifold doors can be used to achieve a welcoming ambience in a variety of ways. The most popular use of these doors in retail properties is to open up the store to the street, providing outdoor seating or stock display areas which are in easy view and access of the interior. Inside Homes: When it comes to residential buildings, bifold doors are unequalled in dividing spaces in a highly effective and stylish way. They can be used to temporarily divide large open spaces into several smaller portions. Depending on the materials that the panels are produced from, they can also effectively reduce noise pollution from the other side of the divide and increase the flow of natural light. Outside Homes: Bifold doors are, not surprisingly, just as successful outside your home as they are inside. On the external surface of your home, bifold doors can provide a casual and stunning transition point between the interior and exterior, folding in to reveal patios, pool decks and views of the garden. Warehouses and Storage Facilities: Industrial locations such as warehouses and storage facilities typically occupy large open-plan spaces. Bifold doors are one of the most ideal choices for dividing space within these locations because they allow for a flexible opening size to accommodate large products and machinery and are easy and practical to maneuver.

bifold doors interior

BIFOLD DOORS

Top 5 Places for Bifold Doors

BIFOLD DOORS

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Bi-Fold Closet Doors

If you need good access to your closets then bi-fold closet doors are the best as well as great space savers. Some closet doors have their advantages and other door types have disadvantages. For instance sliding closet doors only open on one side and other closets that have hinges on them present problems when opening them, especially if you have item on the outside of the closets. The bi-fold has proved to be the best as well as the most convenient.

wood bifold doors

If you only have room for a tiny closet then a bi-fold is a good option, and if you have a larger space you can then opt for a two door bi-fold as you can then put the doors on one sides of the other. It is not imperative to put two doors on. However, it will look far better and more modern as opposed to one door. Once the doors are up then all you need do is give the doors a coat of paint that matches with your decor.

BIFOLD DOORS

No matter if you have a large walk in closet or a reach in closet you can be rest assured that a bi-fold door will be your best choice. Once you have made up your mind as to what type of closet type door you want, then you should hire a professional to install the doors for you.

When a professional installs the closet doors you can be rest assured that the doors will give you optimum performance. In order to keep the doors working for long periods you should apply grease to the tracks, as this will allow the doors to slide easily.

Closet doors not only look good but are great space savers. Bi-folds are also affordable and pleasing to the eye, as well as the best choice you can make.

Bi-Fold Closet Doors

BIFOLD DOORS

How Bifold Doors Can Be Used to Introduce Colour to Your Home

Color is one of the most important elements of our visual perception, in fact, a whole area of study, called Color Theory, aims to understand the potential of color and its impact on us. Colors give us a lot of important information regarding our surroundings and other people and things, the observation of which is particularly relevant to artists and designers. There are general meanings that certain colors have the world over - for example red traffic lights meaning 'stop', while green indicates it is safe to proceed - but colors can also gain unique significance due to culture-specific symbolism or personal emotional experience. While the meaning of colors may change over time and according to individuals and location, one thing is for certain, they will always be a hugely central element of our lives and nowhere is this more apparent or important than in interior design.

bifold doors home depot

Before we get too carried away thinking about all the amazing effects that color can produce in the home or work space, it may be best to focus on just one common element of the modern interior, and explore how color can be introduced with bifold doors.

BIFOLD DOORS

Why bifold doors? Because today they are one of the most popular and functional doors that are found in work places and residential buildings everywhere. It's more than likely that there are several in your home already, so why not consider turning them into a delightfully colorful, as well as functional, asset.

The color options available in bifold doors depends on the type of folding door you buy, and, as with any decorative decision, you will need to be certain that you are picking the best style and matching color to enhance the atmosphere of the room in a positive way. Bifold doors are available in wooden, uPVC and aluminium panels that each have their own color ranges available.

Bifold doors made of uPVC have one of the more limited ranges of color, because the material itself contains the color and this cannot be changed after the door is formed. If you are interested in becoming adventurous with color, then uPVC is not ideal. That said, uPVC bifold doors do generally offer a good selection of white, off-white and faux wood tones, with the added bonus that they are easily maintained and will not require re-painting.

A warm ambience is always easily achieved with wooden interior detailing and wooden bifold doors are no exception. As with any wood product, an exceptional selection of colors is available in wooden bifolds because, unlike uPVC, colors are applied to the material once the door has been built. As well as being an ideal surface for the application of paint, wood has a classical and elegant appearance when lightly stained to add faint color while maintaining the texture of natural wood grain. It is even possible to change the color of wooden doors after they have been installed to reflect a new choice of décor because wooden frames can be sanded back to be re-painted or re-stained.

Aluminium bifold doors similarly offer a huge range of opportunities when it comes to experimenting with color. While a raw metallic look can be striking for modern interiors, aluminium bifold doors can also be coated with a variety of contemporary powder-coated color bases to create a vibrant surface that is contemporary and stylish while remaining completely functional. These smooth, factory sprayed color surfaces are very longer lasting, low maintenance and effervescent.

Finally, bifold doors are a perfect place to start introducing color into your home because they can be installed in a clad style that provides two different surfaces to work with. Clad bifold doors are aluminium on one side (normally the side that faces outdoors), and feature wood on the interior, meaning that the door can be two different colors, with an interior that can easily be modified to reflect future changes in color of surrounding interior design.

How Bifold Doors Can Be Used to Introduce Colour to Your Home

BIFOLD DOORS

What You Need to Know Before Installing Interior Bifold Doors

Interior bifold doors are a practical and economical choice for closets in small spaces. There's a variety of finishes from which to choose, including wood veneer and glass doors.

bifold doors lowes

Small areas such as a bedroom, entry or hallway usually don't have enough room for closets with swinging doors. That's where bifold doors are a practical alternative. Closest dimensions typically have openings of four, five or six feet. A bifold door is versatile as it has a right and a left section, which join in the center in an unfolding action. This allows for opening the door from either the right or left side.

BIFOLD DOORS

The selection of bifold door styles are the same as with traditional swing doors, with the exception of the type of hardware needed. Bifold doors are available in the typical hollow core interior style, which makes them an economical and lightweight choice. Durable and easy to install, bifold doors don't have to be drab looking. Some hollow core styles include decorative features such as raised panels, which add a stylish touch. There is also a variety of wood veneers available such as mahogany, maple and oak.

Solid core bifold doors are another option. Although they cost more than hollow core doors, they can be a good investment if sound is an issue. The term "solid core" describes the core portion of the door, which is a solid piece typically comprised of manufactured or particleboard wood. Some solid core doors have a steel core. The veneer on solid core doors is similar to that on hollow core doors but more closely resembles the wood finish of swing solid wood doors. This makes it easy to match the style of existing swing doors in the home.

You may want to purchase casing or trim for the doors and consider adding a doorstop to your list. Casings, trim and doorstops are not included in the bifold door package. These can add extra cost to your project, but do provide a more professional and finished look. However, it's not necessary to have these extras, especially if cost is an issue.

There are other uses for these doors besides closets. They're very useful between rooms that don't have doors and transition into other areas, such as into a living room or kitchen. It's also easy to combine bifold doors, using two to make up one larger door.

It's not difficult to install a bifold door and only a small number of tools are needed. The most expensive tool you might use will be a screw gun or power drill, but a manual screwdriver is sufficient. Of course, if you plan to add trim, there will be a bit more work and time involved. Adding casing, trim or a doorstop is an extra step.

These doors come in louvered, solid or other combinations of styles, making them easy to match with your existing doors. There are many varieties from which to choose, and they can add elegance and beauty to any home at a reasonable cost.

What You Need to Know Before Installing Interior Bifold Doors

BIFOLD DOORS

Monday, August 29, 2011

Sliding Door Hardware: Installing Bi-Fold Sliding Doors

Materials and Tools Needed

wood bifold doors

- Combination Square
- Cordless Drill
- Centering Bit
- Hacksaw
- Plumb Bob
- Bit Extender
- Hacksaw

BIFOLD DOORS

*This is a fairly easy job. The job will be a bit more difficult if the doors are extremely heavy, or if your closet opening isn't square.

Finish/Paint Doors

You always want to finish and/or paint your doors before installation. This will save you a lot of time.

Mount the Hinges

Take a jamb side door and mark its inner edge 11-inches from the bottom and 7-inches from the top, centered between the two. Place the door on edge with the marks facing up so that you can see them.

Now take the lower half of a hinge and align its bottom with the bottom mark. Make sure its knuckles are facing back and flush to the edge. Use your self-centering bit to drill pilot holes through the hinge holes. Screw on the hinge plate and attach the top and middle hinges to their marks.

Place the leading (inner) door on edge, facing back-to-back with the first door. Align the doors evenly against a square. Now put the hinges together and screw the hinge plates to the leading door.

*Repeat this process on the second pair of doors.

Attach the Track Hardware

Fasten the pivot plates and the locking arms to the top and bottom of each of the doors. The pivot plates go on the tops and bottoms of the jamb-side doors, and the locking arm on the tops of the leading doors.

*Each kit requires its hardware to be uniquely positioned, so check the diagrams that come with yours for exact measurements and placements.

Install the Track

After the track is put together you will be ready to install it. Use your hacksaw and cut the track to properly fit the closet length/opening. Slide the hanging hardware into the track and attach the track to the door header with the screws that should be provided.

*Don't tighten the hardware onto the track. It will be easier to hang the doors later if the pieces are loose.

Position Your Floor Bracket

For this you need to use the measurements that are supplied by the manufacturer to position the floor bracket next to the doorjamb properly.

Hang your plumb bob tool from the center of the track above the floor bracket to align the pinhole in the bracket front-to-back. This will ensure that the doors are plumb when installed.

*Outline the bracket in pencil to mark its exact location.

Screw the bracket in place. Now remove the screws and set the bracket and screws aside.

Hang the Doors

Carry your doors to the track and lift the jamb side of the door so that it locks into the pin of the top pivot plate. When you are sure that the pin is all the way in, push the lever on the side of the socket to lock it in place.
Now with the doors closed, swing them forward enough to catch the floor bracket in the bottom pivot pin.

Attach the Floor Bracket

Swing your doors back into place so that you can attach the floor bracket. Find the marks you previously made and then use your flexible bit extender to screw down the bracket.

Hang the other set of doors using the same technique already stated here.

*You may want to get some help, as this will be easier with another person.

Attach the Door Aligner

You need to do this from inside the closet with the doors closed. Go ahead and mount the door aligners between the two leading doors. The aligners should catch when the doors are closed.

*Do this about 6-inches up from the floor.

Install the Door Pulls

The door pulls (handles) can be installed pretty much however you want them. Pick the height you want to place them at and them follow your manufacturers instructions on installing them

You should now be able to enjoy your new bi-fold doors. Your closet will have a whole new look and feel.

Sliding Door Hardware: Installing Bi-Fold Sliding Doors

BIFOLD DOORS

What About Bifold Closet Doors

The normal everyday swinging closet doors has advantages and disadvantages. The good thing about a hinged closet door is that it gives you a good solid surface for you to add closet decorations or a full-length mirror on the door to enhance your room. The bad thing about this type of door is that the immediate area within the swinging arc of the closet doors must be clear of any items for you to comfortably have full access to the closet space within.

interior glass bifold doors

Even sliding closet doors come with some disadvantages. When you slide open the closet doors, there will always be one side that remains closed. If your closet has dual sliding doors, then you can only access one area of your closet at a time. Even with three sliding closet doors, there will still be one section of the closet that is blocked. Sliding doors will work really if you can slide them into the walls, but not many people have that luxury.

BIFOLD DOORS

When you don't have a lot of space to spare for swinging open closet doors and you really need to access everything at once, then a bifold closet door is the answer. For small closets, one set one bifold doors is enough to comfortably operate. If your closet is wide enough, two bifold closet doors coming from opposite ends would be the solution of choice. The folds of the doors are usually too small to hang a full-length mirror on but creative decorating will make the closet blend into the architectural effects of your room.

Bifold closet doors will work with any kind of closet, be it reach-in or walk-in. The most important feature for a bifold closet door is the rails on which it rests on. The performance of the bifold closet door depends heavily on how well it glides on its rails. Due to this fact, it is advisable to have a professional install the bifold closet door for you. Once proper installation is done, all it takes is some grease on the rails to keep the doors operating smoothly.

What About Bifold Closet Doors

BIFOLD DOORS

Friday, August 26, 2011

Bifold Closet Doors - A Popular Choice For Those on a Budget

Who would have guess that there would come a time when closet doors would become an integral part of a modern home. With bifold closet doors in various materials such as wood, mahogany, glass, mirror, louvered and contemporary design, they could become a focal point of your home decor.

interior glass bifold doors

If you are renovating on a tight budget, you may consider bifold doors because they retail at affordable prices and are very easy to install. Plus, they could last for a long period of time despite constant use, provided that they are installed properly.

BIFOLD DOORS

When choosing these doors, make sure that they have pre-drilled knob holes for ease of operation. If possible, have your door installed by professionals to ensure efficient closet operation. Here is a look at some of the bifold closet doors available at doitbest.com:

Series 4400 Steel Framed Mirror Bifold Door by Home Decor Innovations:

This series of doors is available in mirrored, steel framed and bifold. The complete set includes a 1/4-inch frame around the mirroor, spring-enhanced hinges, color-coordinated pull handles and dual-height tracks that are interchangeable. The series consists of model number 24-8278 with dimensions of 24 inches by 80 and ½ inches, model number 24-8280 with measurements of 30 inches by 80 and ½ inches and model number 24-8282 with 36 inches by 80 and 1/2 inches finished opening. The online price of each model is .90.

Pine Raised Panel 1-1/8 Inches Bifold Door by Interpacific Sales:

Per bifold has 2 door panels with measurements of 1 and ¼ inches stile width and 5/8 -inch thickness recessed rails. The top, locks and bottom rails are 3 and 3/8 inches. This series have installed hinges with standard hardware and track. They have adjustable height from 80 5/8 inches to 81 3/8 inches. They come unfinished so you have the option to paint them with the color that you want. The door series is available for .99.

5/0 1-3/8 Luan Bifold Door by Masonite:

This door is made with rails with fingerjoints and fiber steel. The door has a thickness of 1 and 3/8 inches and suitable for paint or natural finish. It retails at 4.99 under model number 163637.

2/8 1-3/8 Birch Bifold Door by Masonite:

This door is built with fiber rails and clear center stiles. It has a thickness of 1-3/8 inches. The back of the door is mill option which is suitable for paint or natural finish. It is available under model number 171469 for .99.

24x80 7/8L/I Mah Bifold by Interpacific Sales:

This door measures 7/8 inches, stiles of 1 and 1/8 inches wide, top rail width of 3 and 13/16 inches, lock rail width of 3 and 5/8 inches, bottom rail width of 3 and 13/16 inches and louver width of 1 and 3/8 inches. This 2-panel bifold are available in various models with numbers A4206807, A4266808, A4286806 and A4306809. It is available for only .99.

Bifold Closet Doors - A Popular Choice For Those on a Budget

BIFOLD DOORS

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Tips on Choosing Wooden Bifold Doors

In constructing houses and offices, space is always one of the major considerations. As much as possible, everyone would always want to save space allocated for fixtures such as storage cabinets and doors. Thus, many designs have been produced for space consuming doors, such as sliding and accordion. One of the designs that have garnered favor from engineers and interior designers is the bifold door.

mirrored bifold doors

A bifold door is actually composed of two doors that fold to one side. These two doors run on rollers and track, and are connected together by hinges. This design is indeed very practical because this type of door consumes lesser space when folded than the conventional door. As such, these doors are very good options for smaller rooms and spaces.

BIFOLD DOORS

One of the major advantages of bifold doors is that these doors allow complete access to an area, contrary to sliding doors. In fact, some of the most common applications of such doors include separating rooms and hiding small spaces such as laundry space or office nooks.

In choosing bifold doors though, there are some factors which have to be critically considered. One of these factors is the material type. There are many materials used in making these doors. The most common materials include aluminum, PVC, and timber or wood. While each of these different materials exhibit unique characteristics, the wooden doors have become the favorite of many.

Wooden bifold doors are not only aesthetically beautiful; the varieties are wide as well. There are various types of wood options for wooden doors. Thus, you can always choose the best color, grain, and type of wood that you find perfect for your room or space.

The second factor is the size and number of panels. The size of the door opening should be carefully considered as the size of the bifold door is dependent on it. Sometimes, it is the other way around though, the sizes of commercially available wooden doors are first determined before the size of the door opening is. This is done in order to save time and money, in case the desired door size in not commercially available.

The third factor is the configuration options. This would include options on how this type of door are folded and opened. Normally, the configuration of the bifold door is dependent on the space requirement and arrangement of the room.

The fourth factor is the glazing. Fortunately, there are a lot of glazing options for wooden door that are available in the market today. Glazing is very important for appearance, privacy, and thermal considerations.

Finally, the last factor to consider is the trickle vents. The trickle vents are very important, most especially in meeting building standards and requirements. Thus, it is advisable to consult the building standards which cover the room or space where you intend to install the wooden bifold door onto.

Tips on Choosing Wooden Bifold Doors

BIFOLD DOORS

How to Buy a Bifold Door

As with most reasonably large property expenditure, a bifold door normally a one-off purchase. The technical detail is likely to leave the average consumer confused, so what is involved in choosing a bifold door that will allow you to enjoy your home more, will be versatile, and will look and function beautifully for many, many years?

wood bifold doors

Below are some tips on what to consider, but we suggest you look for a bi folding door specialist to supply and fit your door who will perform a survey before building your door and give you any advice you need. Should you decide to use your builder or a professional fitter, they should take responsibility for the precise measurements and ancillary requirements for the door. In unskilled hands, these doors are likely to produce problems so an experienced installer should be used. However, you may well prefer to perform your own research and we hope that these tips prove useful.

BIFOLD DOORS

Essential Considerations

• Which material - aluminium, PVCu or timber products
• Configuration options - how should it fold and open
• Size and number of panels
• Glazing - for thermal, privacy and appearance
• Threshold Options - for accessibility and weatherproofing
• Trickle Vents - for ventilation and to meet building standards
• Gearing - for smooth operation and high performance
• Cill and Drainage - are they necessary for your project

Material

Aluminium is a fabulous, highly durable, low maintenance material. It is available in a vast range of colours, wood effect and metallic finishes. It needs only to be washed occasionally to keep it clean and looking new.

Aluminium is less expensive than timber options, but some properties - especially period and listed properties where existing fenestration is traditional - may not be entirely suited to aluminium or even meet planning guidelines.

PVCu is the least expensive option. It is available in a range of colours and finishes, but responsible bifold door manufacturers would not recommend anything other than a standard white PVCu finish. This is because colour and finishes can cause instability to this material when in conjunction with the movement of the bifolding door.

PVCu is easy to maintain, does not last as long as aluminium, but will still look beautiful after several years. Good quality, modern PVCu can complement white timber windows and doors very well.

Timber bifolding doors can be built in hardwood or in laminated (engineered) timber. Engineered timber is designed to outlast other timber products as it is formed from layer upon layer of hardwood, preventing water from becoming trapped within the wood where it can causing twisting and shrinking and eventual damage. The fold and slide nature of bifolding doors means that they are highly sensitive to any alteration of shape and weight distribution and this will result iin stress on the gearing, poor performance and eventual breakdown.

In South facing, exposed or coastal areas laminated timber is recommended over hardwood for this reason. All timber bifold doors can be factory painted in an infinite range of colours and this should assure a guarantee of long durability of the finish and low maintenance.

Opening Configurations

A flexible supplier of bespoke doors will be able to offer all possible configuration options to suit your aperture, but there will be technical limitations. Each panel has to be attached to the track, which affects which doors can be free one side to open. Options can include a single opening door at either end or anywhere it makes physical sense along the track. It is possible to use two of the doors as french doors in the conventional way whilst the remainder of the panels are closed as long as there are enough panels.

Size and Number of Bifolding Panels

Panel size is dictated by material and is essentially weight related. Once glazed, these doors are very heavy and too much weight can affect their performance. If narrow, the panels will become too bulky to fold and slide and will be cumbersome when stacked away.

The standard maximum width of an aluminium bifold door is 1000mm and there are height restrictions which, if exceeded, may cause issues and customers will be expected to sign a disclaimer. PVCu may be lighter than aluminium, but because it is not as strong, a good bifolding door company will ensure that all of its PVCu bifolds are reinforced with steel, thus making it heavier.

The number of panels a door comprises should be flexible if custom built. Generally, however, fewer panels in a door makes for better visibility. In addition, the price per square metre increases in line with the number of panels owing to the additional material, engineering, hinges, security and thermal requirements.

Gearing

Gearing quality is critical to door durability and performance. Unfortunately, it is also the feature you may not be able to qualify yourself. For this reason, if you do not know of a bifold door specialist, it is recommended that you use either a reputable company experienced in supplying bifold doors or a reliable builder or architect to specify the door. Choosing a product on price frequently leads to disappointment.

Thresholds

All bifold doors are most weatherproof when incorporating a normal threshold - no matter what manufacturers say to the contrary. By its very nature, a low threshold bi-folding door is subject to some water and draught ingres in severe conditions. Low thresholds are fabulous for disabled access and level access to, for example, a garden, but consider your property's aspect, your geographical location and local weather patterns before making a decision. And as an extra precaution, lay water resistant flooring immediately inside a low threshold.

Glazing

Glazing should be 28mm K glass or equivalent and is always double glazed. It can be obscured if required, self cleaning and have heat resistant film applied if in direct sunlight. Increasingly popular are internal blinds which are very attractive, but which are new on the market and have no history on which to stake their durability.

Trickle Vents

Trickle vents, or night vents, are built into the frame to provide exchange of air and to prevent condensation. These are compulsory for new builds and may be appropriate for your installation for other reasons. Any bifold door specialist can advise, but you should check with your builder or installer.

Cill and Drainage

You may or may not need a cill and/or drainage which will be specified at the survey. Drainage is via a narrow channel which draws moisture away from the door and whether drainage is required will be depend upon internal and external levels and other factors.

How to Buy a Bifold Door

BIFOLD DOORS

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Mirrored Bifold Closet Doors Can Make Your Room Seem Larger

When you are living in a small space, you want to maximize the light and bring in elements that will make the room seem larger. You can find a lot of products on the market that will help you to achieve this look, and at the top of the list is mirrored Bifold Closet Doors. These doors are perfect for any bedroom or other area where light needs to be bounced around, or when you want to make the space appear larger.

bifold doors

If your master bedroom is not getting the light you want then you should consider changing your closet doors. You can achieve the light that you need when you bounce it from the window to the doors. The reflective quality of mirrored Bifold Closet Doors will give you the depth, which a small or dark room may lack. You will enjoy the way the doors capture the light and it also gives you a place to see how well dressed you are, before you start you do. These doors will provide a lot of uses for your master bedroom and would make a handsome choice.

BIFOLD DOORS

Closet organizers are a wonderful asset and they will make storing your clothes a breeze. If you open your closet and find that it is hard to locate or find your outfits, it is time to consider a closet organizer. You will be able to separate your clothing more easily and find what you are looking for quickly. When you have a system to hanging up your clothes your closet and the entire area will look more polished.

Shopping online can save you time and money. You will be able to find a wide selection of Bifold Closet Doors and closet organizers. You can have your purchases delivered to your home and enjoy a more polished closet in no time. Your master bedroom will feel like a retreat when you have the proper storage space and beautiful quality doors, which catch the light and help to expand the look of the room. You will find that getting dressed in the morning is easier, thanks to these doors.

Mirrored Bifold Closet Doors Can Make Your Room Seem Larger

BIFOLD DOORS

Monday, August 22, 2011

How to Install Bi-Fold Doors

Typically used for closets, pantries, or other interior openings, bi-fold doors are two doors that slide together on a track in accordion fashion. With the right tools and a little bit of time, you can install bi-fold doors yourself without the trouble or hassle of having to call in a handyman.

bifold doors interior

The first thing you will need to do is measure the space where the doors will be. Use a tape measure to determine the height and width of the space, and do this twice to be sure of your numbers. When purchasing your bi-fold doors, the doors must have a combined width that is 1-inch less than the width of the opening, and 1 to 2 inches shorter than the height. This will give you the room to open and close your doors, and it also takes into consideration the track that they'll slide on.

BIFOLD DOORS

Before you begin to put on the doors on, you will first have to install the track at the top of the frame and also the floor brackets at the bottom which are in the shape of an "L." Once these are in place, you will need to find the pre-drilled holes at the top and bottom of the doors. At the top, the hole closest to the sidewall, place the dowel in that comes with the spring assembly. The dowel with the screw assembly goes in the bottom hole that is nearest the sidewall, and the dowel with no assembly goes in the top hole that is farthest from the sidewall. Using a hammer, tap the dowels into place.

Now it's time to install the doors. First put the dowels into the track at the top, and then push the door up until the bottom dowel is in the L-bracket. To adjust the door height, rotate the screw to raise or lower them until they are at the desired height.

The last step in the process is to install the hardware. At the center of the door panel farthest from the sidewall, make a mark with a pencil where the handle or knob will go. Drill the hole and then screw the hardware into place. Be sure to test the doors a few times by opening and closing them to make sure that they run smoothly on the track and that they are at the appropriate height. You've done it! Enjoy your bi-fold door(s)!

How to Install Bi-Fold Doors

BIFOLD DOORS

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Bi-Fold Doors Offer Better Connection With The World Outside

A lot of people choose bi-fold doors, as they provide a better view of the garden outside. When opened completely, such doors remove all barriers between the interior and the exterior of the house, thus allowing more space.

wood bifold doors

Suitable For All Kinds Of Houses

BIFOLD DOORS

Such doors are made of metal frames and glass, which allow a better view of the outside scenery. The entire structure consists of glass doors that are fixed on metal frames, which can fold at the joints. This enables you to fold the large structure into the size of a single door, so that there is no obstruction when the doors are opened. You can also leave bi-fold doors partially opened, like regular doors. The doors have an adequate locking system to secure each frame, so that you have the flexibility to open the door completely or partially. Such doors make the house look very attractive and allow a lot of fresh air into the home. You can install such doors in all kinds of houses, like bungalows and apartments. Those who have a lawn can install such doors to allow a better view of the garden, while those who stay in apartments can use such doors for a better view of the exteriors. Especially, if the apartment is near the hills, you can get a beautiful view of the surroundings by completely opening such doors. Also, closed bi-fold doors offer a beautiful view of the exterior as the doors are made of glass. It is a good idea to search on the Internet for manufacturers of such doors, as reputable companies have their websites where they provide details of their products. Interested clients can contact the manufacturer on the website, after which the company's customer service will immediately get in touch with the client to learn about their requirements. The client will be required to provide the measurements of the door, so that the manufacturer can make the desired product.

Installation By Experts

If a client requires a supervisor to check the site, a certain amount will have to be paid for such a visit. The company supervisor will then check the height and length of the door and accordingly, provide the measurement to the company for suitable bi-fold doors. While searching for a manufacturer, it is essential to clarify all details about the material that will be used for such doors. Generally, the frame is made of good quality aluminum, or non-rust steel or wood, while the major portion of the door is made of glass. It is essential to use good quality glass which is sturdy and can withstand bad weather like heavy rain and storms. There should also be adequate locking systems to secure the door, so that there is no scope for theft. Reputable companies use strong glass for such doors, which offers a clear view and also provides adequate protection. Once the door has been manufactured as desired, experts from the company are sent to the site to install the doors in the right manner.

By choosing bi-fold doors, you can ensure an attractive home and also a better view of the scenery outside.

Bi-Fold Doors Offer Better Connection With The World Outside

BIFOLD DOORS

How to Handle a Rough Opening Bi-Fold Door

While constructing any home, there are various apertures made by cutting and edging for things like windows, doors, ceilings, stairways etc. The constructors should make the apertures very carefully in order to avoid the rough openings and unequal sizes or placements.

bifold doors lowes

One important type of door installed in the house is the bi-fold doors. People install them to make cupboards and closets. Today there are many styles of bi-fold doors available in market. They come in wooden, louvered, mirrored etc. These doors when opened allow us to reach our contents that we want to use, easily.

BIFOLD DOORS

If these doors did not have a proper rough opening then there will occur many troubles. If the rough opening is too big then the door will look uneven and if they made the opening too small then the door will never close. The measurements of the correct rough opening depend on the thickness and kind of matter you will adopt to make a proper finishing of the bi-fold door.

Generally, the bi-fold doors are available without a frame. You can sling them directly over the complete door opening. The typical thickness of the drywall is ½ inch. The trimming done to the thickness of the drywall is up to only ¾ inch.

Now affix the breadth of the complete door, the broadness of your complete item and the advocated clearance. For example for a twenty four inch door rose in a drywall aperture, plus twenty four width with the thickness of one inch on two sides of the drywall opening and ½ inch space on two sides so that the door function appropriately. Hence, for this kind of door, your uneven opening should be 25.5 inches extensive.

Now append the height of the door that you made the broadness of the absolute object, the quantity of gap needed by the door's passageway and the mechanism that is needed to attach the door with the frame without any interruptions in opening and closing. Likewise, if there is a bi fold door of seventy nine inches height above a carpet of one inch. Then the rough opening should be of 81.25 inches, this includes the 79 inches of the flap, ½ inch of the drywall, ¾ inch of the of the mechanism of the passageway and one inch to stay above the ground.

It will be beneficial for you if you take all the measurements of the rough opening and the bi-fold door before placing it very carefully to avoid all sorts of problems or negotiate a deal.

How to Handle a Rough Opening Bi-Fold Door

BIFOLD DOORS

Saturday, August 20, 2011

How to Hang Bifold Doors

Although bifold doors come in different designs, the method of installation is the same. It's a good idea to read the instructions that came with the bifold doors before you begin. Generally the doors are 80 inches tall but can be cut down to fit. The height of the door opening should be two inches higher the length of the doors to allow enough clearance for the track and the rest of the hardware.

mirrored bifold doors

Start by marking the top of the opening with a pencil and line up the track. Mark and pre drill screw holes. (Use a drill bit that is smaller then the screw itself ).

BIFOLD DOORS

Position the pivot brackets (inside the header track ) 3/8 inch away from the end of the opening.

Line up the pivot bracket with the header track. (You can use a plumb bob or lay a carpenters level against the side frame and make a mark at the floor and align the bottom track. I always take the measurements of where the top track will line up and transfer that measurement to the bottom where the pivot bracket will be installed).

If the floor is covered with carpet, you will need to use a wooden pad underneath the bottom pivot bracket. Cut away the carpet just enough to fit the wooden pad and fasten it down to the floor.

If it's a cement floor, use adhesive especially made for gluing to cement. Let the adhesive set for 24 hours, line up the pivot bracket with the top track and fasten it to the wooden pad.

Once all the brackets are lined up with each other and in place, you can hang the bifold doors by simply folding the doors in half and fitting the guide pin in the upper track. Next, lift up the door and fit the adjustable pivot into the pivot bracket at the bottom of the door opening.

Repeat the last steps for closets with four panels.

Install the doorknobs at a height where it is most comfortable to reach. Don't install the doorknobs too close to the edges.

If the opening requires four section bifold doors, you will need to install alignment brackets on the back side of the two middle doors. (Approximately 16 inches from the bottom of the doors). These brackets will interlock and keep the doors aligned with each other.

I hope this rough guide will help you understand how to hang bifold doors.

How to Hang Bifold Doors

BIFOLD DOORS