Choosing the right doors for your conservatory or home can be a tricky decision. Bi-fold doors and pivot doors are two stylish options, each offering different features and functionality. Here’s a straightforward breakdown to help you compare.
Space Usage
Bi-fold doors: These fold in sections and stack to one side, opening up almost the entire doorway. They’re great for creating wide, open spaces.
Pivot doors: These rotate on a central or off-centre pivot point, swinging open. They require more clearance space both inside and outside the room due to the swing arc.
Aesthetic
Bi-fold doors: Have more visible frames due to the number of panels. When closed, they can break up the view with these frame lines.
Pivot doors: Offer a sleek, modern look with larger, uninterrupted panels of glass, making them a bold statement piece. They offer cleaner lines compared to bi-fold doors.
Installation and Maintenance
Bi-fold doors: More complex to install because of the multiple panels and moving parts. They also require regular maintenance to keep the hinges and tracks functioning smoothly.
Pivot doors: Simpler installation with fewer moving parts. Maintenance is mostly centred on the pivot mechanism.
Ease of Use
Bi-fold doors: They require folding and sliding to open, which can be cumbersome for larger setups.
Pivot doors: Very easy to open and close with a single movement. However, the larger size and weight can make them feel heavier to operate.
Views and Light
Bi-fold doors: When fully closed, the multiple frames can block some of the view and reduce the amount of natural light entering the room.
Pivot doors: Since they have fewer frames, pivot doors provide better views and let in more light, offering a more open feel when closed.
Cost
Bi-fold doors: Generally more expensive because of the number of panels and moving components involved in the design.
Pivot doors: These can also be pricey due to their size and design, but installation tends to be less complex than bi-fold doors.
Key Considerations:
Space: If you want a door that folds away and opens up a large area, bi-fold doors are the way to go. If swing clearance isn't an issue, pivot doors can offer a more dramatic look.
Style: Pivot doors offer a clean, modern aesthetic with fewer visual interruptions.
Light and Views: Pivot doors provide more uninterrupted glass, while bi-fold doors have more visible frames when closed.
Functionality: Bi-fold doors are ideal for large, flexible openings, while pivot doors offer simplicity and a modern statement piece.
Your decision comes down to how you plan to use your space and which style appeals more to your aesthetic.
For further advice on choosing the best doors for your conservatory, visit FV Conservatories here.
Comments