The addition of bifold doors can dramatically improve the functionality and overall appearance of a room.
When used to access outside space, they flood the room with natural light making it appear brighter and more spacious. When used to access other rooms, bifold doors create the impression of an ‘open-plan’ layout without the need to heat a large space.
Bifold doors are very low-maintenance. For most owners, they may only require maintaining once a year.
For those owners with bifold doors that receive a large amount of use, or those that live in a particularly windy or dusty location (i.e. on the coast or near a busy road) they may choose to clean them more often.
In addition to spoiling the appearance of your bifold doors, a build-up of dust and debris can affect their performance and cause them to leak wind and water, especially in the wet winter months.
To protect against this and lengthen the life of your bifold doors there are a few simple steps you can take…
1. Remove any debris that collects in the running tracks
During their use, the runner at the bottom of the door frame can become clogged with small stones and other objects.
To make sure your doors operate smoothly and don’t get caught up, simply take a vacuum cleaner and clear the debris as part of your regular cleaning routine.
2. Check for blockages in the drainage channel
The drainage channel can be found on the floor immediately in front of your bifold doors. It has a grid on the top with a series of openings to allow water flow away from the threshold.
It’s important to make sure that the drain is free from any blockage that stops the flow of water. Check the areas that get the most use and take care to clear away any build-up.
Water pooling as a result of a blocked drain is one of the most common causes of leakage.
3. Use warm water and a mild detergent to wipe down the frames
You may use of glass cleaner to give your glazing the perfect streak-free sheen but it shouldn’t be used on the framework or any other part of your bifold doors.
It’s likely to be ineffective and may cause damage to the surfaces. The same goes for any other types of cleaning agent, particularly those that contain ammonia or caustic substances. Wire wool, scourers or any other abrasing cleaning items should not be used for the same reasons.
The best results can be achieved by simply using warm water and a cleaning cloth. A mild detergent may be used to remove any stubborn stains.
4. If you meet with resistance, don’t force it
Treat your bifold doors gently, and if for some reason, they feel a bit stiff try not to force them open or shut. This causes stress and may result in damage to your doors.
The most common cause for resistance is dirt and debris collecting in the tracks or hinges. Check the track to make sure it’s free from obstruction first, then make sure there’s nothing clogging up the hinges.
Well maintained high-quality bifold doors will last for many years
At Abelglass, we supply the highest quality of bifold doors. They’re designed to stand up to the worst of the British weather along with the wear and tear that comes with regular use.
We’ll advise you on the best option for your home and our team of experienced fitters carry out installations quickly, efficiently and with full care and consideration.
For more information on all of our door options visit our website or give us a call on 01253 893355.
