Blades Building LtdBLADESBUILDING
Comparisons

Bi-fold, sliding or French doors on a new extension

The glazing decision changes the structure behind it.

Rear-wall glazing is usually chosen on looks, but each option makes different demands on the structure, the threshold and the floor build-up. Deciding early keeps the design honest.

Bi-folds

Fold back to open almost the entire aperture, at the cost of more frame visible when closed and a stacking zone at one end. Wide bi-folds need a stiff, well-supported head to avoid deflection.

Sliding doors

Slimmer sightlines and a cleaner look when closed, but only part of the opening is ever open. Large panes are heavy, which affects lifting and installation access.

French doors

Simpler, cheaper and often the right answer on a narrower opening, particularly where the wall either side is doing useful work internally.

Thresholds and levels

Flush thresholds look excellent and need careful drainage and floor build-up detailing to stay watertight. That detail has to be agreed before the slab level is set.

Common questions

Questions we get asked about this

Which is most expensive?

Generally wide bi-folds and large-pane sliders sit above French doors, but the structural work above the opening can matter as much as the unit price.

Does the door choice change the steel?

Yes. Span and deflection limits for glazing are stricter than for masonry, so the section can differ.

Can we have a flush threshold?

Usually, with the right drainage detail designed in from the start.

Do you fit the doors?

We coordinate glazing installation within the build so responsibility for the opening and the unit sits in one place.

Planning the back wall?

We will make sure the structure suits the glazing you actually want.