Bifold Doors – uPVC vs Aluminium
Bifold doors have gained immense popularity in recent years for their ability to seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces while adding a touch of elegance to any home. When it comes to choosing the right material for your client’s bifold doors, two options stand out: uPVC and aluminium.
Below you will find the key differences between uPVC and aluminium bifold doors, helping you make an informed decision that suits your client’s style, budget, and functional requirements!
Durability and Strength
Aluminium bifold doors are renowned for their exceptional strength and durability. The robust nature of aluminium makes it highly resistant to warping, bending, and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance.
uPVC bifold doors, on the other hand, offer good durability but may not be as sturdy as their aluminium counterparts. They are prone to expansion and contraction over time, which can affect their overall lifespan.
Thermal Efficiency
When it comes to thermal efficiency, both uPVC and aluminium bifold doors have their advantages. uPVC has excellent insulating properties and is inherently energy efficient, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduce energy consumption.
Aluminium, on the other hand, is a highly conductive material but can be enhanced with thermal breaks or insulation inserts. High-quality aluminium bifold doors with thermal breaks can offer comparable thermal performance to uPVC doors.
Design and Aesthetics
If you’re looking for a wide range of design options and finishes, uPVC bifold doors may be the ideal choice. uPVC doors come in various colors, textures, and woodgrain effects, allowing you to match your doors to your home’s style.
Aluminium bifold doors offer a sleek and modern aesthetic, with slim profiles that maximize the glass area and provide unobstructed views. They are available in a range of powder-coated finishes, providing a contemporary look.
Security Features
Both uPVC and aluminium bifold doors can be equipped with high-security features to ensure the safety of your home. uPVC doors often feature multi-point locking systems, reinforced frames, and toughened glass, offering reliable security.
Aluminium bifold doors, due to their inherent strength, can accommodate even more robust security systems, such as multi-point locking systems, shootbolts, and laminated glass, providing enhanced protection against forced entry.
Maintenance and Longevity
In terms of maintenance, uPVC bifold doors have the advantage. uPVC requires minimal upkeep and can be easily cleaned with soap and water.
It does not require painting or staining and is resistant to fading, rot, and corrosion. Aluminium bifold doors, while durable, may require occasional cleaning and maintenance to keep them in optimal condition. They may also require a fresh coat of paint or powder coating after several years to maintain their aesthetic appeal.
Cost Considerations
When it comes to cost, uPVC bifold doors generally offer a more budget-friendly option. They are often more affordable than aluminium doors, making them a popular choice for homeowners on a tight budget. Aluminium bifold doors, although more expensive upfront, provide excellent long-term value due to their durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.
Choose Bifold Doors from Direct Roofing Systems
Choosing between uPVC and aluminium bifold doors depends on your client’s specific preferences, budget, and requirements. uPVC doors offer a cost-effective solution with a wide range of design options, low maintenance, and good thermal performance.
Aluminium doors, on the other hand, provide superior strength, sleek aesthetics, and can achieve comparable thermal efficiency with the right insulation.
Consult with our experts at Direct Roofing Systems to determine which material best suits your client’s needs and witness the beauty and functionality of bifold doors in your client’s home!
