Why Regular Maintenance is Crucial for Bifold Doors
Though bifold doors don’t require constant attention, routine maintenance is important to keep them in top condition. Cleaning your doors at least once or twice a year will help keep the glass clear and the frames free of dirt and debris. The best time to clean your doors is on a cloudy day, as direct sunlight can cause cleaning products to evaporate too quickly, leaving streaks on the glass. Cleaning during cooler, overcast weather allows you to see dirt more clearly and gives you time to work without the cleaning products drying too fast.
Furthermore, bifold doors are more prone to misuse compared to sliding doors, making it essential to operate them correctly. Proper handling helps prevent damage and ensures they function smoothly throughout their lifespan. To assist with this, here are two videos demonstrating the correct way to operate a bifold door, both with and without a traffic door:
Bi-Folding Doors: Correct Operation Without a Traffic Door
Bi-folding doors without an everyday traffic door operate differently to a traditional door, this short video demonstrates how to operate them correctly.
Bi-Folding Doors: Operating Instructions With a Traffic Door
It is crucial that you operate your bi-folding door correctly, especially bi-folds with a traffic door as it very common for people to open and close them incorrectly which will damage the door and outer frame. This short video demonstrates how to operate the door correctly.
Key Steps for Keeping Bifold Doors in Perfect Condition
1. Dust Your Doors
Before tackling a deep clean, start with a quick dusting to remove any surface dirt. Dusting first helps make the rest of the cleaning process more effective. Grab a microfibre or soft cloth, and gently wipe down both the glass and frames, working from top to bottom. Start with the interior side to prevent any outside dirt from spreading indoors. This small step goes a long way in keeping your doors looking fresh and dirt-free.
2. Clear the Tracks and Clean the Hinges
One of the most common spots for dirt buildup on bifold doors is in the tracks and hinges, where dust, leaves, and even small pebbles can gather and affect movement. Check the tracks and remove any visible debris, like leaves or small stones, which can block smooth sliding. If you notice any resistance when opening or closing the doors, inspect the tracks carefully rather than forcing the door. Once larger debris is removed, run a vacuum with a thin attachment along the tracks to catch lingering dust or small particles. For extra detail, use a small brush to tackle any grime or grease on the rollers.
3. Clean the Glass
Keeping the glass pristine is key to maintaining the stunning look of bifold doors. Use a window cleaner or a mix of water and vinegar to avoid streaks and apply it sparingly to prevent soap residue from building up. Spray the cleaner onto a microfibre cloth and wipe in smooth, circular motions. For a streak-free finish, use a separate, dry cloth to buff the glass to a gleaming shine.
4. Care for the Frames
After cleaning the glass, shift your focus to the frames. Use a mild soap and lukewarm water mix, avoiding any harsh detergents that might damage the finish. Wipe down the frames, hinges, and gaskets to lift away smudges and marks, and for stubborn spots, let a damp cloth sit on the area for a few moments before wiping. Avoid abrasive cloths or scouring pads to keep the frames looking as good as new.
5. Lubricate the Mechanism
To keep your bifold doors operating smoothly, apply a silicone-based lubricant or a specialised door lubricant to moving parts, including wheels, hinges, and handles. Make sure to clean off any dirt or old grease before adding new lubricant for the best results. Regular lubrication is key to maintaining easy movement and preventing wear on these essential parts.
6. Check the Alignment and Inspect the Seals
Check the alignment of your bifold doors periodically; misalignment can lead to uneven wear and make the doors harder to use. You can often adjust the alignment by loosening or tightening the hinges. As you’re doing this, inspect the rubber seals around the doors, as these helps block drafts and prevent leaks. Replace any seals that show signs of wear to keep your doors well-insulated and weatherproof.
When to Call a Professional
While many bifold door maintenance tasks can be handled at home, there are situations where professional help is necessary. If the doors are severely misaligned, the glass is cracked, or you’re experiencing persistent issues that can’t be resolved with basic cleaning or lubrication, it’s time to contact a specialist. Professionals can ensure that your doors are properly serviced and help with more complex repairs.
Our Range of Bifold Door Maintenance Products
To make maintaining your bifold doors even easier, we offer a range of products designed specifically for door care. Our maintenance pack includes everything you need to keep your doors in excellent condition. It features a professional glass cleaner, a silicone spray for lubricating rollers and locks, a non-abrasive microfibre cloth, and touch-up paint in black, white, or grey to repair any scratches on your frames. These products are tailored to make your bifold door maintenance routine simple, effective, and long-lasting.
Bi-Folding Doors: Correct Maintenance
This short video gives a quick guide onto your properly maintain your bi-folding doors.
Bi-folding Doors: How to Change the Barrel in Your Doors
There’s various reasons why you might want to change the locks in your bi-folding door, fortunately it’s easier than you think, as demonstrated in this short video.
With these expert tips, you now have the knowledge to keep your bifold doors clean, well-maintained, and performing at their best. Regular care doesn’t require a lot of time or effort, but it will protect your investment and keep your doors looking great. Whether you’re maintaining bifold doors or sliding doors, these cleaning steps apply to all types of Express Direct aluminium windows and doors.
Have questions or need more information about maintaining your bifold doors? Our expert team is here to help. Visit our showrooms to explore our full product range or get in touch for tailored advice.
