Bifold Door Sizes and Configurations Explained

Bifold doors are made to measure, but a few rules decide how many panels an opening needs and which way they should fold. This guide explains the numbers you will see on a Bifold UAE drawing.

Panel width and height

Each panel is normally between 700 mm and 1,200 mm wide. Narrower panels mean more frames in the view; wider panels are heavier and put more load on the hinges and track. Standard heights are 2.1 m to 2.4 m; 2.7 m and 3 m panels are common in double-height living rooms and are engineered with heavier profiles and thicker glass.

How many panels?

What 3+1 means

The numbers describe how the panels split. 3+0: all three panels fold to one side. 3+1: three fold left and one folds right. The single panel in a 3+1, 4+1 or 5+1 set is the traffic door — it has its own handle and multi-point lock and opens like a normal door, so the set is practical every day and only fully opened when you want the whole wall gone. Even splits (2+2, 3+3) stack the panels at both ends for a symmetrical look.

Inward or outward folding

Outward-folding doors keep the room clear and are the usual choice for gardens and terraces; inward-folding suits balconies and where nothing may project outside. Either way, allow about 150 mm per panel at the stacking end.

Thresholds

A standard weathered threshold stands about 50 mm proud and gives the best seal; a low threshold (about 20 mm) or a flush drained track gives level access for wheelchairs and prams. Flush tracks need a drainage channel and are quoted at the survey.

Maximum sizes

Practical limits are about 8.5 m wide and 3 m high for a single set; wider walls are split into two sets with a fixed post, or use a stackable system with a wall pocket. Send us your opening size and we will draw the options.