Are you curious about the price of bi-fold doors in the UK? Our comprehensive 2025 reference includes average costs, cost-influencing variables, installation costs, and money-saving advice for bi-fold door purchases.
1. Introduction
Connecting your indoor and outdoor living spaces with bi-fold doors is a chic, practical, and contemporary solution. However, it's crucial to know the entire cost before making a purchase, including the cost of the doors, installation, and any extra features you might desire.
This blog will examine the precise cost of bi-fold doors in the UK in 2025 and offer helpful guidance for homeowners wishing to make prudent investments.
2. What Are Bi-Fold Doors?
Multi-panel doors that glide along a track and fold in on themselves are called bi-fold doors. They open completely, in contrast to conventional sliding patio doors, providing easy access to your patio, balcony, or garden.
They’re typically used for:
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Rear extensions
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Conservatories or orangeries
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Open-plan kitchen diners
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Balconies or Juliet balconies
3. Why Are Bi-Fold Doors So Popular?
Bi-fold doors have grown in popularity thanks to:
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Modern aesthetic appeal
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Maximising natural light
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Flexible opening configurations
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Indoor/outdoor lifestyle trend
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Energy-efficient glazing options
They’ve become a sought-after feature in many UK property renovations and extensions.
4. Average Cost of Bi-Fold Doors in the UK (2025)
Here’s a quick summary of average bi-fold door costs in the UK for 2025:
| Type | Average Cost (Supply Only) | Average Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminium (3m) | £2,500 – £4,000 | £3,500 – £5,500 |
| uPVC (3m) | £1,500 – £2,500 | £2,500 – £4,000 |
| Timber (3m) | £3,000 – £5,000 | £4,500 – £6,500 |
| Custom/Bespoke | From £5,000+ | From £6,500+ |
These prices are indicative and will vary depending on the supplier, customisation, and location.
5. Price Breakdown by Material
5.1 Aluminium Bi-Fold Doors
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Pros: Sleek profile, strong, durable, low maintenance
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Cons: More expensive
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Average Cost (3m): £2,500 – £4,000
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Popular Brands: Origin, Smart, Schüco
5.2 uPVC Bi-Fold Doors
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Pros: Affordable, low maintenance
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Cons: Bulkier frames, less durable than aluminium
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Average Cost (3m): £1,500 – £2,500
5.3 Timber Bi-Fold Doors
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Pros: Natural look, ideal for traditional homes
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Cons: High maintenance, expensive
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Average Cost (3m): £3,000 – £5,000
6. Bi-Fold Door Costs by Size
Bi-fold doors are typically priced by width and the number of panels.
| Width (Meters) | Panels | Average Supply Cost (Aluminium) |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8m | 2 | £1,600 – £2,400 |
| 2.4m | 3 | £2,200 – £3,500 |
| 3.0m | 4 | £2,500 – £4,000 |
| 4.0m | 5 | £3,500 – £5,500 |
| 6.0m | 6 | £4,500 – £7,500 |
7. Additional Cost Factors to Consider
When budgeting, don't forget these extras:
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Coloured or textured frame finishes
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Integral blinds between the glass
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Low threshold sills
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Triple glazing upgrades
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Security features (multi-point locks)
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Trickle vents (required by Building Regs)
All of these features can add £500–£2,000+ to your total bill.
8. Installation Costs Explained
Professional installation is usually necessary and can vary by location and complexity.
Average Labour Cost (Supply & Fit):
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Basic installation: £1,000 – £1,500
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Complex installations (e.g. steel lintel required): £2,000 – £3,500+
What’s Included:
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Removing old doors/windows
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Structural adjustments
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Fitting the new frame
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Finishing internal plasterwork
One of the most important parts of your budget is the cost of installing bifold doors.
For a straightforward installation, current UK guide prices put bifold installation labour at approximately £600–£1,200, with an average of around £800.
Some installers quote a complete supply-and-fit price rather than separating labour from the door cost. This can make comparing quotations easier, provided each quotation clearly explains what is included.
Another current guide puts general patio-door installation labour at around £40–£80 per hour, although installers commonly quote a project or day rate rather than charging purely by the hour.
Bifold Doors Installation Cost Table
| Installation requirement | Indicative cost |
|---|---|
| Straightforward bifold installation | £600–£1,200 labour |
| Average bifold installation labour | Around £800 |
| Patio door specialist | Around £40–£80 per hour |
| New lintel | Around £400–£1,000+ depending on project |
| Structural opening/alteration | Additional quotation required |
| Waste removal/skip | Additional cost |
Structural work can significantly increase the bifold doors installation cost. For example, widening an existing opening or creating a new opening may require structural calculations, a lintel and additional building work. Checkatrade currently gives around £650–£1,000 as a guide for a new lintel specifically within its bifold door cost guide.
What Affects the Bifold Doors Installation Cost?
Several factors can change the final price.
Opening Size
A wider opening normally means a larger door system, more glass and more panels. This increases both material and fitting costs.
Existing Opening
Replacing an existing set of patio or French doors can be relatively straightforward. Creating a new opening in a wall is a considerably more involved project and may require structural support.
Glazing
Double glazing is common, but upgraded glazing specifications, coatings and energy-performance requirements can increase the cost.
Threshold
Standard, low and flush threshold options can have different prices. Your choice may also depend on drainage, weather exposure and accessibility requirements.
Hardware
Handles, locks and other hardware can affect the overall specification. Premium hardware and enhanced security options may increase the price.
Colour and Finish
Standard colours are generally more economical than bespoke powder-coated finishes or specialist colours.
Location
Installation rates can vary across the UK. Labour costs are generally higher in London and the South East than in many other parts of the country.
Additional Costs to Budget For
The advertised price of a bifold door installation does not always include every part of the project.
You may also need to budget for:
- Removal of existing doors
- Disposal of old frames and glass
- Structural alterations
- New lintels
- Structural engineer fees
- Building control requirements
- Plastering and making good
- Internal and external finishing
- Upgraded glazing
- Bespoke colours
- Threshold upgrades
- Additional security hardware
For example, Checkatrade currently estimates glass tinting at approximately £60–£170 per m² and gives around £300 as a guide for skip hire in its patio-door cost information.
Are Aluminium Bifold Doors Worth the Extra Cost?
Aluminium bifold doors generally cost more than uPVC alternatives, but they offer several features that make them attractive for larger openings.
Their strength allows manufacturers to create relatively slim frames while supporting large areas of glazing. Aluminium is also low maintenance and well suited to contemporary homes.
For homeowners planning a wide opening, the additional cost may therefore reflect the specification and performance of the door system rather than simply the material itself.
How Long Does Bifold Door Installation Take?
A straightforward bifold door replacement can often be completed in around one day. Larger installations or projects involving structural alterations can take longer.
Because bifold doors are large and heavy, installation normally requires appropriate handling equipment and more than one installer. Accurate positioning matters because the panels, tracks, hinges, seals, and locking mechanisms must all operate correctly.
9. Double vs Triple Glazing: Price & Efficiency
Double Glazing
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Standard option
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Good thermal performance (U-values of ~1.2 W/m²K)
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Lower cost
Triple Glazing
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Better insulation (U-values of ~0.8 W/m²K)
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Improved noise reduction
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Adds £500–£1,000 extra
If you're aiming for a Passivhaus-standard home, triple glazing may be worth the investment.
10. Aluminium vs uPVC vs Timber: What’s Worth It?
| Feature | Aluminium | uPVC | Timber |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durability | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ |
| Style | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Maintenance | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★ |
| Insulation | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ |
| Price | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★ |
Verdict: Aluminium offers the best value for performance and looks.
11. DIY or Professional Installation?
Bi-fold door installation is not a common do-it-yourself task. Long-term issues may arise from problems with weatherproofing, levelling, or locking the entrance.
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DIY only recommended if you're highly experienced
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Professional installation recommended for warranty and compliance
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Check for FENSA/CERTASS registration
12. Planning Permission and Building Regulations
You don’t usually need planning permission for bi-fold doors in the UK unless:
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Your property is listed
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You live in a conservation area
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You’re making structural changes beyond Permitted Development
You must comply with Building Regulations, particularly in:
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Thermal performance (Part L)
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Safety glazing (Part K)
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Ventilation (Part F)
13. Cost of Maintenance Over Time
Aluminium:
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Low maintenance
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Occasional clean and lubrication
uPVC:
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Can discolour over time
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Needs occasional re-sealing
Timber:
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Needs sanding and repainting every 3–5 years
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Susceptible to warping if neglected
14. Tips to Reduce the Cost of Bi-Fold Doors
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Compare at least 3 quotes
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Buy during off-peak seasons (autumn/winter)
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Choose standard sizes to avoid custom fees
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Opt for double glazing instead of triple
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Look for trade discounts or showroom ex-display units
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Use government incentives (if available)
15. FAQs About Bi-Fold Door Pricing
Q: Are bi-fold doors more expensive than sliding doors?
A: Yes, slightly. Sliding doors are usually 10–20% cheaper but don’t open as wide.
Q: Do bi-fold doors add value to a home?
A: Yes, they enhance both appeal and functionality, especially in open-plan extensions.
Q: How long do bi-fold doors last?
A: Aluminium: 30–40 years. uPVC: 15–25 years. Timber: 20–30 years with care.
Q: Can I get finance for bi-fold doors?
A: Many companies now offer financing or buy-now-pay-later options.
16. Final Thoughts
For homeowners who want to create flexible, light-filled areas, bi-fold doors are a great investment. Even though they can be pricey, knowing the prices up front enables you to make an informed decision that fits your house and budget.
There is a bi-fold door option to suit your demands, whether you want to improve access to your yard or create a striking architectural element.
For more information about our interior or exterior doors or door accessories, give us a call at 01603 622261 and speak to a member of our expert team today, or Email us at sales@doorsuppliesonline.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.