Bi-fold doors are a brilliant feature for any home, letting in plenty of natural light and making your living space feel more open and modern. But when they stop working properly, it’s beyond frustrating. So the big question is: should you repair them or bite the bullet and replace them entirely?
Let’s look at the different types of damage, the costs, and the environmental and security factors before deciding whether to upgrade it.
Assessing the Extent of the Damage
First things first, let’s figure out what’s actually wrong with your doors. This will help you decide whether a repair makes sense or if replacement is the better option.
Cosmetic Damage
This is the minor damage, such as scratches, scuffs, faded paint, or a bit of wear and tear on the handles. It doesn’t affect how the doors open and close. Cosmetic issues are usually cheap and easy to fix. A quick polish, repaint, or replacing handles could have them looking good as new without breaking the bank.
Structural Damage
This is where things get tricky. If your bi-fold doors aren’t sliding smoothly, won’t close properly, or the frame has warped, you’ve got structural problems. These can include:
- Bent or damaged tracks
- Broken or worn-out hinges
- Warped frames (often from weather exposure)
- Misaligned panels
Structural issues affect the doors’ function and security. If the problem is serious—say, the frame’s completely out of shape or the locking system is compromised—replacement might be the safer bet.
If you’re not sure how bad the damage is, it’s worth getting a professional opinion. Plastic Doctor can assess the damage and let you know what’s repairable and what’s not. Contact us for the best advice.
Environmental and Security Considerations
These days, we all want to make choices that are good for the planet and our wallets. Plus, your home’s security is non-negotiable. Let’s talk about these factors.
Environmental Impact
If you care about reducing waste and saving materials, repairing your existing bi-fold doors is the greener option. It prevents the doors from going to landfill and avoids the energy used to make new ones.
But if your doors are old and not energy-efficient, replacing them with modern, thermally efficient doors could actually lower your heating bills over time. Many new bi-folds come with better insulation, weatherproofing, and low-emissivity (Low-E) glass that helps keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer.
So, it’s a balancing act: short-term waste reduction with repair versus long-term energy savings with replacement.
Security Features
Older bi-fold doors, especially those installed over 10 years ago, often lack modern security features. New doors come with:
- Multi-point locking systems
- Toughened or laminated glass
- Anti-lift tracks and anti-snap locks
If your existing doors feel flimsy or you’ve had security concerns, upgrading might be worth it for peace of mind. Plastic Doctor is often able to retrofit security features where required, but in some cases, a full replacement is the only way to guarantee top-level protection.
Pros and Cons of Upgrading to Newer Models
Let’s say you’re tempted to go for shiny new bi-fold doors. Here’s what you’d gain—and what you might lose.
Pros of New Bi-Fold Doors
- Better Energy Efficiency: Modern doors are designed to keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, helping you save on energy bills.
- Enhanced Security: As mentioned, new bi-folds have better locks, stronger frames, and safety glass.
- Improved Design: Sleeker frames, wider glass panels, and more colour options mean you can choose a look that suits your home perfectly.
- Low Maintenance: New materials (like aluminium with powder coatings) mean less upkeep.
- Increased Property Value: Stylish, energy-efficient doors can boost your home’s appeal.
Cons of New Bi-Fold Doors
- Higher Initial Cost: Replacing doors can be pricey.
- Installation Disruption: It’s a bigger job, often needing structural adjustments or even building work, depending on the size.
- Waste: If your old doors still have life in them, replacing them creates waste.
Also read: Repair vs Replacement. Making the Right Choice for Your Windows and Doors
So, Should You Repair or Replace Your Bi-Fold Doors?
Here’s the bottom line: it depends on the damage, your budget, and your priorities.
When to Repair:
- The damage is mostly cosmetic—scratches, scuffs, and minor alignment issues.
- The frames and glass are in good condition.
- You want to save money and reduce waste.
- Security is still solid, or you’re happy to upgrade locks and hinges.
When to Replace:
- The frame is warped or damaged beyond repair.
- The tracks are worn out, and parts are no longer available.
- You’re having repeated issues, and repairs keep adding up.
- You want better energy efficiency and security.
- You’re after a modern look and feel.
Bi-fold doors are a lovely feature, but like anything in your home, they need to work properly. A sticky track or a damaged hinge doesn’t always mean you need to replace the whole system—often, a good repair job will do the trick and save you a fortune. But if your doors are seriously damaged, draughty, or lacking modern security features, a full replacement might be the smarter choice.
If you’re unsure, it’s worth getting our team to take a look. We can give you a straight answer on whether a repair is worth it or if it’s time for an upgrade. Get in touch with us today!
