For a few years now, the bifold door has been the hottest hit of the summer months, with delighted homeowners taking pleasure in opening large areas of glazing to let in light and air from their outdoor spaces.
But what happens when summer is over? When the sun makes ever-rarer appearances, the leaves fall from the trees and the cold and damp sets in, does the bifold door have any purpose other than being a window on the winter months? As we’ll see, these versatile doors offer significant benefits throughout the year, particularly during the colder days.
Why choose aluminium bifold doors in winter?
The latest generation of aluminium bifold doors, such as Aston’s AB-60 and AB-38 systems, combine sophisticated thermal technology with contemporary design to create doors that perform exceptionally well in British winters. With advanced thermal breaks and high-performance glazing, these doors help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while allowing natural light to flood your living spaces.
Superior thermal performance
Modern aluminium bifold doors have evolved significantly from their earlier counterparts. Aston’s premium AB-60 system features a polyamide thermal break that effectively separates the inner and outer aluminium profiles, minimising heat transfer and reducing thermal conductivity. This innovative design helps prevent cold spots and condensation, ensuring your home remains warm and energy-efficient while reducing heating bills.
The AB-38 slimline system similarly incorporates thermal break technology, offering excellent insulation despite its minimal frame design. Both door systems can achieve impressive U-values when specified with double or triple glazing, contributing to reduced energy bills during the winter months.
Maximising natural light
During winter, when daylight hours are limited, the slim sightlines and large glass panels of aluminium bifold doors become particularly valuable. The AB-38’s ultra-slim frame maximises the glass area, allowing natural light to penetrate deep into your living space. This creates a brighter, more welcoming environment and can also help to reduce reliance on artificial lighting.
The AB-60 system, while offering slightly broader profiles for enhanced thermal performance, still maintains elegant sightlines that maximise natural light intake. Don’t forget that winter sunshine can provide passive solar heating, contributing to a more energy-efficient home.
Weather performance
British winters require doors that can withstand challenging weather conditions. Both the AB-60 and AB-38 systems feature:
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- Multi-point locking mechanisms for enhanced security and weather resistance
- High-quality weather seals to prevent drafts
- Robust roller systems that ensure smooth operation even in cold conditions
Year-round benefits
There’s no doubt that summer showcases the full potential of bifold doors. Yet winter reveals their true versatility. The thermally efficient design keeps warmth in and cold out, while still providing stunning views of winter gardens and landscapes. The doors can be partially opened for ventilation when needed, offering flexibility in managing indoor air quality during the colder months.
Maintenance and care
Aluminium bifold doors require minimal maintenance to maintain their thermal efficiency during winter. Regular checks of the weather seals and occasional lubrication of the running gear ensures optimal performance. The powder-coated finish remains stable in all weather conditions, requiring only minimal cleaning to keep its appearance.
Making the Right Choice
When selecting aluminium bifold doors for year-round performance, consider:
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- Thermal efficiency ratings
- Glass specifications
- Frame width preferences
- Required size and configuration
The AB-60 system offers superior thermal performance and is ideal for larger openings, while the AB-38 provides a more minimalist aesthetic with excellent thermal properties for standard-sized apertures.
What are the advantages of aluminium bifold doors compared to other materials?
Aluminium bifold doors offer superior strength, durability, and energy efficiency compared to other materials like wood or uPVC. They are low maintenance, have slim profiles that maximize natural light, and provide excellent thermal performance, making them a stylish and practical choice for winter.
Aluminium bifold doors – the perfect all year-round glazing solution
Aluminium bifold doors are sophisticated glazing solutions that perform admirably throughout the British winter. With advanced thermal technology, sleek designs and robust construction, systems like the AB-60 and AB-38 offer the perfect balance of style and functionality. They provide energy efficiency, abundant natural light and year-round enjoyment, making them an excellent investment for any home improvement project.
Whether you prioritise thermal performance or prefer ultra-slim aesthetics, Aston Aluminium Architectural’s modern aluminium bifold doors prove that you don’t have to compromise on style to achieve excellent energy efficiency during the winter months.
For more information about our aluminium bifold doors, contact us here or give us a call on 01923 510220.