Both double and triple glazing increase the thermal and acoustic insulation levels of a home. So, how do you know which option of glazing is the right choice for your bifold, and what factors should you consider?
Here, we discuss the key differences between double and triple glazing, and how to choose the right option for your bifold door.
In this guide:
Find out what options Origin can offer, and what factors you will need to consider when choosing glazing.
Read our guide to double vs triple glazing, including the key differences and benefits of each.
We provide a key summary of what points you need to consider before choosing your door.
Find out what other factors to consider before buying your ideal door.
Read the benefits of buying a bifold door from Origin.
Which glazing option is right for your bifold door?
At Origin, all bifold doors are bespoke, allowing you to find the perfect door design for your home. Origin Bifold Doors are able to accommodate double (24mm and 28mm) or triple glazed (32mm) units. The Origin Window can also be manufactured with double (28mm) and triple (44mm) units. The doors or windows are manufactured according to the specified glazing size, and rest assured, the tolerance of each component is tested to make sure they can bear the extra weight. The right choice for your aluminium bifold door will ultimately be based on a number of factors – cost, time, and the energy efficiency targets you are wanting your home to achieve.
Are you choosing a new bifold door for your home? Read our full guide to choosing a high-quality bifold door design here.
Double glazing vs triple glazing - 3 points to think about before you choose
The clear advantage triple glazing has over double is the increased insulation. The glazing is more efficient at keeping the heat in than double glazing, so can make your home feel warmer. In the winter, it stops the heat from transferring into the outside environment, as well as preventing the cold air from entering the property. In the summer, it has the reverse effect, meaning that the warm air stays out, keeping it cool on the inside. This means that energy bills will be reduced and your rooms will be usable all year round.
Are you unsure which bifold door design to choose? Read our guide to choosing a new bifold door design here.
A further advantage is that the extra layer of glass can reduce external noise pollution and improve acoustics, making it a beneficial choice for homes in urban areas.
These differences aside, we look at two important points to consider which will help you make the right choice for your home:
1) Sightlines
One of the main benefits of installing bi-folding doors is the superb views they allow and the amount of natural daylight they provide. The additional weight of triple glazing means the maximum panel size available is smaller than when the doors are double glazed, as larger triple glazed doors would be too heavy to operate. The view is interrupted further as an additional door may be required due to the panel size being smaller, meaning that the door panels would be closer together, which in turn, increases the amount of aluminium profile getting in the way of the view. However, the sightlines of triple glazed aluminium are still impressive when compared to uPVC and timber frames and the benefits of triple glazing go a long way towards negating these drawbacks.
As a comparison, Origin’s maximum door panel width for a standard height door (under 2.4m), is 1200mm for double glazed and 900mm for triple glazed doors. Any doors above this height will have a bespoke width, given on a case-by-case basis.
Are you choosing the perfect bifold door for your home? Read our guide to choosing a bifold door design here.
2) The cost
Triple glazed units can cost up to twice as much as a double glazed alternative, so you will need to consider whether the value added to your home will outweigh the high initial cost of triple glazed units. If you plan to stay in your home long term, then adding value to your property may not be a priority, so you can enjoy the benefits of triple glazing without the concern of recovering the costs.
There’s no denying the acoustic and thermal benefits of triple glazed bifold patio doors, but it’s worth weighing up the pros and cons so you can come to a decision whether double or triple glazing is right for your home.
Are you choosing a new bifold door colour for your home? Read our full guide to choosing a bifold door colour here.
Are you looking for a Soho-style bifold door?
Explore our Origin Soho External Door.
Our all-new Soho Collection epitomises the pinnacle of luxury and style. With sightlines of just 36mm, the Soho External Door provides extensive glass panels for maximum natural light and an eye-catching aesthetic appeal for any property development. The sought after steel-look seamlessly merges cutting-edge design and ultra-slim sightlines with unparalleled functionality.
Contact your local installer today to bring your vison to life.
Choosing between double and triple glazing: key points
Double glazed doors are a less expensive option than triple glazed options, so it is important to consider your budget when making a decision.
There are several considerations to think about before choosing triple glazing, including costs and timeframes. The additional weight of triple glazing means the maximum panel size available is smaller than when the doors are double glazed. However, triple glazing offers increased insulation.
Origin’s experts manufacture both double and triple glazed bifold doors in-house depending on your requirements.
How do U-Values work?
Essentially, the U-Value is a measurement of how effective a building element is as an insulator, indicating the rate of heat transfer through the door system. A lower U-Value signifies superior thermal performance, meaning less heat escapes during colder months or enters during warmer ones. The calculation of U-Values involves assessing various components, including the door frame, the glazing, and any thermal breaks that reduce heat transfer.
By using advanced software and testing methodologies, manufacturers like Origin can accurately determine the U-Values for their bifold doors, ensuring they meet or exceed stringent energy efficiency standards. The U-Value is a major consideration in this comprehensive approach, which not only helps consumers make informed decisions but also underscores the importance of investing in high-quality bifold doors that promise durability and reduce energy costs over time. Read our complete guide to bifold door U-Values here.
For more information on Origin's bespoke bifolding doors, contact your local installer today.
What else should you consider when buying a new bifold door?
You’ll have a number of decisions to make around the following:
Materials
Aluminium is known for its durability and strength, and you can find out more about the benefits of aluminium here. However, bear in mind that aluminium is often more expensive than options such as uPVC. This is due to its increased strength, reliability and aesthetic appeal. Read our guide to aluminium vs uPVC bifold doors.
When choosing the right option for you, consider your priorities, budget, and your home’s style. For example, timber bifolds offer a rustic appeal, however, often require much more maintenance than aluminium.
Read more about choosing your bifold door material.
Configuration and design
How many door leaves do you choose, and in which direction are they going to open and fold? Read more about configurations, what they mean and how to choose. It is also important to consider your ideal aesthetic and design preferences. If you prefer a minimalistic style, you may want to go for a more simple, classic bifold door in colours such as black and white. Find out more about your bifold door design options here.
Threshold options
Should your door be weathered to guard against flooding, or non-weathered to be flush with the floor? Read more about choosing your threshold.
Watch our YouTube video on flush non-weathered thresholds.
Accessories
Accessories play a key part in the appearance and security of your bifold door. Choosing a sturdy, secure handle material and style is vital, so it is important to put some thought into this and choose a high-quality supplier. It is also important to choose colours and styles of accessories that complement your bifold door. Find out more about bifold door accessories here.
Are aluminium bifold doors thermally efficient?
Improvements can include:
- Using doors with better-insulated frames, such as those with a thermal break
- Opting for higher-quality glazing with additional layers or special coatings
- Ensuring proper installation and sealing to avoid heat loss through gaps.
Read our complete guide to bifold door thermal efficiency here.
Why choose Origin?
Quality and durable materials should be a top priority when adding value to the home. Here at Origin Global, we offer bespoke, high-quality external bifold doors that bring timeless style and much-valued natural light into your home. Moreover, our bifold doors can achieve a U-values starting from only 0.87²K with triple glazing. At Origin, we design as well as manufacture our own products, so that when a product from Origin has been specified, you can guarantee it has exclusively been crafted by us – from sourcing right through to delivery.
As Origin hold stock of the different glazing gaskets at Origin HQ, it means that triple glazed doors and windows can be delivered on the same lead times as double-glazed units, which can be as little as one working day on stock colour bifold doors and one week on windows. Read our full guide to choosing a bifold door here.
Frequently asked questions
How thermally efficient are bifold doors?
Modern bifold doors are designed with thermal efficiency in mind. High-quality options often feature thermal breaks—an insulating barrier within the frame that prevents heat transfer. Aluminium bifold doors, in particular, combine strength and slim profiles with excellent insulation when paired with double or triple glazing. Many models meet or exceed UK building regulations for energy efficiency.
What is a thermal break, and why does it matter?
A thermal break is a layer of insulating material between the inner and outer parts of the bifold door frame. This prevents heat from escaping during colder months and keeps your home cool in summer. It’s a crucial feature for maintaining energy efficiency and lowering heating bills.
Should I choose double glazing or triple glazing for my bifold doors?
Both double and triple glazing are effective, but your choice depends on your priorities:
- Double glazing: Generally more affordable and provides good thermal insulation. It’s a popular choice for most UK homes.
- Triple glazing: Offers superior insulation and noise reduction, ideal for homes in colder climates or noisy urban areas. However, it’s usually more expensive and slightly heavier.
Are bifold doors draught-proof?
Yes, high-quality bifold doors are draught-proof when properly installed. They include features like weather seals, gaskets, and advanced locking systems to prevent air leakage. Regular maintenance of seals is key to ensuring they remain effective over time.
