Bifold Windows: An Alternative To Single Paned Windows

Bifold Windows are very common in most households. These windows consist of two doors which open on either side and fold in half when they are pulled shut. It is easy to see why most homeowners choose to install this type of window system. The benefits of having a bifold door system is that it opens and closes in a smooth fashion, there is little movement necessary to maintain the proper position of the glass panes, it provides privacy from peeping Toms and children, it can save space since the doors do not swing out, and finally, it allows homeowners to enjoy multiple panes of glass that divide a room instead of two. The downfalls of a bifold window are that it is a bit of an eyesore due to the amount of glass it requires, and that it requires some sort of locking mechanism to keep the glass in place when it is closed. In this article I will detail both the advantages and disadvantages of folding windows.

One of the major differences between folding windows and other types of single and double hung or triple pane window systems is that it utilizes two materials, primarily wood and aluminum. Bifold doors are usually comprised of two pieces of each material, with the center portion being a vinyl sheet. Bifold window systems use two panes of glass, however the style that is most commonly seen uses one pane of glass and the center pane of housewindowsforsale.

The advantage of folding window systems is that it can be installed easily, quickly and affordably. Bifolding doors are often seen as a viable alternative to sliding or even pocket windows for smaller entrances and exits. Some home and building owners also elect to use aluminum bifold window systems due to their increased durability and weather resistance. Furthermore, the installation of these types of doors can be completed in just a matter of hours as opposed to days, weeks or months for other types of single and double hung windows.

Generally, when the opening of a door is made larger, typically in relation to the width of the opening, the two panes of glass are not required to overlap. However, if a small entry is desired, it is possible to utilize two panes of glass which may overlap by only a small percentage of an inch. In instances where a small entrance is desired, the general method of operation will be to install a bi-fold. This is a folding window that works in much the same way as a regular single-paned glass door. The only main difference between the bi-fold and a typical single-pane window is the design of the actual window frame.

Bi-folds generally consist of a series of single panes of glass. In a typical bi-fold, each pane of glass in the frame of the door is placed into two adjoining frames. A rubber strip is used to overlap each frame so that only half of the glass is actually in view when the door is opened. Once the overlapping is completed, the glass is placed back into place and the door is closed.

Bifold windows are very popular in residential applications because they provide more safety to the homeowner when compared to other options. The frame of a bifold window is often constructed of a stronger material than other types of single-paned glass, meaning that the glass will break less frequently and be far less prone to breaking at its weakest point. However, many homeowners choose to use the installation of sliding glass doors because they provide more ease of use, but no matter which type of window system you choose for your home, you can rest assured that safety is guaranteed.

Double hung windows are more difficult to repair than their single-panel counterparts. These windows must be taken apart in order for them to be replaced. However, before you take the step of breaking down this type of window, it is important to contact a professional window company or contractor. Although replacing single pane glass is easier, it may not be as financially sound because of the added cost of replacement glass and labor costs associated with moving the window in place. If you attempt to replace a double-hung window without a professional company's assistance, you may find yourself paying far more money than the actual value of the window itself.

No matter which of the bold styles you choose for your home, you will find that they provide an excellent alternative to the common, single-pane, swing out, or louvered old windows. While these new designs offer more security to homeowners, they are also easier to clean and keep dust free. Bifold doors do not impede air flow through their frames, and they are far more attractive than the old style sliding doors. With all the great benefits of bifold windows, you should definitely consider them if you are looking to revamp your home.