Sure, there is a place for small, traditionally hinged swinging doors in most houses, even hyper modern contemporary architecture. For many people however, its simply the mentality of “if its not broken, don’t fix it” coming to the fore and stopping them from enjoying the many benefits of Bifold Doors and Exterior Folding Doors in their homes. I have compiled the major benefits in this article, so read on and dive in and do away with your old doors!

A particularly good application for Bifold Doors is to link the interior of a building with the outside world, be it a garden, patio, wooden deck or courtyard. Unlike traditionally hinged doors or older sliding doors which generally only open half of the available space, bifold doors fold back to just a few centimetres, vastly improving the amount of space that can be utilised. This can really create a seamless transition from inside to out, allowing fresh air and light inside the building.

Added security is another reason to choose modern Exterior Folding Doors over older style Sliding Doors as the locks used on older doors are quite basic and easily broken creating easy access for intruders. Indeed, some insurers view them as such a bad security flaw that they may increase their premium accordingly. Most of Brio’s doors come standard with high quality Hardware for Folding Doors including sturdy locking systems and when installed by a professional provide class leading security. Brio creates high quality door hardware products and can use double or triple glazed glass for maxium energy efficiency.

The modern range of bifold doors have increased usability over old style doors as they are very easy to operate for people of all ages. Modern doors fold on needle bearings which are super smooth, near frictionless and virtually maintenance free. So what are you waiting for? Take the plunge and re invigorate your home.

One of the first things you need to consider is how you will access the deck. If you already have doors with good door hardware that lead outside, nice one, you’re on the way! If you don’t, you’ll need to add an opening which can increase costs quite a bit. The huge trend – and for good reason- is to install large glass bifold doors, sliding doors or some other form of exterior folding systems that enables you to completely remove any barrier between the house and the deck area. Be sure to select sliding and folding door hardware that suits your house and your deck – best to consult a professional architect on which doors to choose.

The next big decision you need to make is what material the deck will be made from. The main options are natural timber, or composite boards. Previously, timber has been the go to material for decks as it looks and feels great. However, timber requires a lot more maintenance such as oiling and washing compared to composite board. These days, composite boards are about 50% more expensive than natural timber but can pay for themselves over time due to being virtually maintenance free. Whatever you decide, there are a range of exterior folding doors that will match your choice perfectly and provided they use quality stainless steel door hardware, will give many  years of hassle-free use.

No matter where you live, you’ll want to consider some sort of covering over the deck, for either sun, wind or rain protection. Shading a deck can be relatively easy, by simply adding some large sun umbrellas which now come in excellent designs to easily retract when not in use. Protection from wind and rain can be more involved however with more permanent structures needing to be built. A great way to maximise the use of a deck can be to include a roof or awning that can be retracted when not needed. The next step is to basically enclose the deck area with large exterior folding hardware or sliding doors that virtually create a multipurpose indoor/outdoor space, which can be used in the nastiest of weather. A good idea if going to this length, is to also incorporate a pleated insect screen in the design to let you enjoy your newly created space rather than being eaten alive by mosquitoes and midges.

Brio offers door hardware  and bifold doors which is a start for the hardworking handyperson. Once you have used a Brio system for opening and closing your patio doors you will not look elsewhere. High quality workmanship and the use of durable and good quality items means that Brio can offer what other firms cannot.

The exterior folding systems are designed for the wear and tear of opening and closing for parties or family get-to-gethers or just a delightful dinner on the patio of a summer or spring evening. The beautiful look and feel of Brio makes it possible to entertain in a very formal fashion if that is your plan. Likewise, the sensitive and neat structures allow for informal opening of rooms and outdoor spaces.

It is important to locate your patio in such a way as to ensure adequate light and shade, whatever the season requires. This will ensure your patio is well-used. If it is sunny and warm you may even be able to open up your doors on a winters day in cooler climates.

Consider such things as breeze and wind direction when deciding where to locate your patio. Seasonal characteristics, temperature ranges and north facing are considerations which are vitally important. In our southern hemisphere, that northern sun is ideal in winter, and in summer the sun is higher overhead and less likely to be a problem with a well-designed plan. If the heat is too great in summer, planting a deciduous tree is very helpful and will not interfere with winter sun, but will provide dappled shade and coolness in summer. If you live in a cooler climate, you will also find that the gorgeous colours of the tree in autumn will add greatly to your pleasure and interest.

Remember to match the design of your new patio area to the existing structure of your house. If you have a character dwelling, then an ultra-modern patio may not blend in. Having said that, lots of glass is a great compromise, as is good quality wood. To ensure your patio will not change position after it is built, a good quality timber, such as kiln dried hardwood is necessary for the flooring.

Don’t forget your council approvals while you are still planning an addition, such as a patio.