Top Tips for Choosing Bifold Doors

Choosing the right bifold doors can be a daunting task as there are many options available.  It is important that you choose the right doors as it could be a costly mistake if you do not.  To make the choice a bit easier there are a number of tips that you can use to help with Choosing bifold doors.

Always View The Doors

Bifold doors are often used in catalogues and home improvement marketing literature as a way of opening up the home to the garden or bringing the garden into the home.  Many people are sold on the idea of a bifold door and spend less time choosing bifold doors then being sold bifold doors.

Always try to see the bifold doors you intend to purchase, visit the showroom or past installations try to physically touch and see the products, to gauge the weight, size and quality.  The mistake in not seeing the bifolding doors may lead to future disappointment

Viewing is very important because you will be able to determine if the door will fit aesthetically as well as structurally where you want it.  While a door might look good in the pictures when you see it in person you may determine that it does not fit your house.  If a company is unwilling to show you the door then you should consider a different supplier.

Check Guarantees and Accreditations

Bifold doors are generally used as an external door and this means that weather and guarantees are important.

Rebated Threshold Bi Folding Doors

A lot of door installers may claim their doors have a high threshold to external weather conditions however when it comes to external doors and bifolding doors your attention should be towards the rebated threshold. It is generally considered that external bi-folds with a rebated threshold offer the best protection from the elements as they are more likely to be fully weathertight.

Ultra Low Threshold

A rebated threshold means that you will have a slight step to the door.  While many people consider this a hindrance you should consider what it means for the winter.  If you have a rebated threshold, instead of a low threshold, the step stops wind from blowing into your house from under the door. A lower threshold may well sit in static weather such as snow or icey water

Ask About Insurance Backed Guarantees

When talking to the vendor you are looking to buy from ask about an insurance backed guarantee.  This guarantee means that even if the company goes under the guarantee on your doors will not go with it.  Typically, an insurance backed guarantee generally lasts for 10 years and generally should not cost you anything. The Cost is normally Bourne by the Installing company.  It is important to note that not all vendors are willing to offer these guarantees.

FENSA is set up by the double glazing industry to help protect homeowners.  FENSA is the UK government authorised Competent Persons Scheme for the replacement of windows, doors and roof lights in England and Wales

FENSA works with thousands of double glazing contractors in England and Wales. In choosing a FENSA double glazing registered company the consumer is offered greater protection when purchasing double glazing for their home.

For peace of mind, homeowners can use a FENSA registered business for your double glazing installations:

• Avoid rogue traders – use a FENSA installer
• More than 10 years of raising standards in the glazing industry.
• FENSA – the quick and simple route to building regulations compliance

• FENSA has issued over 9 million window and door homeowner certificates and is the recognised double glazing industry leader.

Buy Doors That Pass Current Building Regulations

Building regulations are constantly being updated to ensure that you are kept safe.  Before you buy any doors you need to ask if they pass the current building regulations.  The installer is likely to say that they do and you need to ask for any documentation or certifications that prove this.  These documents should be yours to keep after installation and you need to keep them safe.

Buying from an installer that is FENSA registered offers a longer guarantee and will normally cover all parts for the windows including locks, handles and hinges.

Always buy the best to fit your budget, buying lower cost windows could cost you more when you

energy efficient uPVC Windows Nottingham

come to selling your home due to the need for a Residential Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).  The Energy Performance Certificate provides details on the energy performance of the property and what you can do to improve it.  An EPC is required for properties when constructed, sold or let.

Look at More Than Price

While the price of the doors is important, it should not be the primary factor in what you buy.  Generally, there will be a range of doors in a similar price range.  Take the time to find out more about the different doors and glazing options in the range instead of simply choosing the cheapest one.

Bifold doors are great for the patio and add an open feeling to a house.  However, before you spend any money on the doors it is important that you choose correctly.  There are a number of points to consider including the guarantees you get and the doors compliance to building regulations, Energy performance, styling and security.

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