Guide to Bifold Doors

Pick bifold doors to match the decor

Think beyond the traditional louvered style typical of many older bifold interior doors. You can find varied styles of paneled doors, French doors, mirrored doors, solid wood or hollow doors from vendors. Whether installation is in rental properties or offices will dictate style and ornamentation.

I recommend: Pick a bifold door manufacturer specializing in the type of door you want. Contact Interior Doors Direct for French doors with clear or beveled glass Try Jeld-Wen Windows and Doors for molded doors with varying panel profiles

Use bifold doors for unique space solutions

For the small business owner seeking to convert his home into a combined home/office, interior bifold doors can create office space from large rooms. Living rooms or dens particularly lend themselves to this; place tracking across the ceiling to subdivide the room. Another idea is to hang one door on each side of a large window for greater privacy and soundproofing than curtains provide.

I recommend: Search the American Society of Interior Designers website by state to find a designer to create custom bifold doors to meet your needs. Or use this free online design tool to create a virtual layout.

Find a contractor to install bifold doors

Several problems can occur when replacing sliding doors with bifold interior doors. Rare is the opening that's perfectly square and level. In addition, the new bifold doors are unlikely to fit perfectly; solutions include planing the doors or shimming the opening. To conceal the tracks for the doors, installation of additional trim may be necessary. Installing tracks over carpeting poses special problems.

I recommend: To find a reputable contractor to install bifold interior doors, check  Associated General Contractors of America to search for a contractor in your area. In larger metropolitan areas, search Angie's List for local home improvement contractors to install interior or exterior bifold doors.