Are Bifold Doors Secure Know Everything About It and Locking Systems
All that you need to know about the Security of Bifold Doors – What is it made of, Locking Systems and More
Any door that you’re installing – be it at your home or shop – serves one main purpose: to keep intruders away. There’s a wrong belief among customers in the UK, that though bifold doors are extremely functional (they are space-saving) and add aesthetic appeal, they lack in security. This is a major misconception, and we set it right with this article.
We walk you through the security features of bifold doors, what they are made of, the locks you can use with it, and ways to further enhance security.
What are Bifold Doors made of?
Bifold doors are made of aluminium and toughened glass. Aluminium is one of the toughest materials on the planet, and it can easily withstand forces up 200lb, making it a great choice for both home and commercial doors.
The toughened glass panels in bifold doors are extremely strong and can withstand the forces of sharp cutting tools, and heavy objects like hammers. Toughened glass panels are made by heating regular glass panels to extreme temperatures and by treating them with special chemicals, making them more secure than an ordinary glass panel.
What are the types of Bifold Door Locks?
While the doors themselves are secure, using a secure locking system is essential to ensure the overall security and safety of the place. Here are some of the popular locking systems used with bifold doors.
1. Multi-point Locking System
The majority of bifold doors that have a multi-point locking system have a hidden inline tracking system. This makes it impossible for the intruder to life the doors out of the locking mechanism. The steel lock pins in the multifold locks are made using hardened steel, that offers robust protection.
2. Twinpoint Locks
A twinpoint lock has a handle in the centre of the bifold door. This handle operates from both the top and bottom, securing the door in a single movement. This lock presents an elegant choice and is available in several styles and finishes.
3. Dropbolts
These locks have a menacing look and add to the security of the door. The dropbolt can be short or long, as per user preferences. However, dropbolts are not as secure as the other types of locks in this list, and it’s highly recommended that you use dropbolt with another locking system.
4. Deadbolts
These are mostly used with multi-point locks and are more secure than dropbolts. Deadbolts are controlled with an internal, twisting lock system or a key.
5. Childproof Locks
As the name implies, these locks are primarily for households with children. Childproof locks are designed in such a way to prevent children from locking themselves in or letting themselves out. These locks are slipped on top of the existing locking system, to prevent children from opening the door.
6. Keyed Locks
Regular padlocks with keys can also be used to enhance the security of bifold doors. However, you need to take extra precaution as to where you store the key. Hiding keys under the doormat or a pot in the garden are not the safest ways.
What are the Other Ways to Boost the Security of Bifold Doors?
● Consider using a security screen – These are mesh screens that are mounted either in front or behind the door. Using security screens allows users to keep their bifold doors open, especially in the summer months to let in air, while adding a layer of security.
● Install a security system – Most bifold doors in London homes use a security system. This device triggers a loud alarm if the door lock is tampered with.
● Include a laminated glass layer between the toughened glass layers – Laminated glass adds an extra layer of security. Here, a vinyl glass layer is sandwiched between two sheets of toughened glass, making it impossible for intruders to use glass cutters to cut through the glass.
Finally, answering the question,
How secure are Bifold Doors?
Bifold doors are extremely secure and work well for both commercial and residential properties. If you’re using bifold doors as secondary doors, say for a patio inside the house, then you don’t have to worry much about security. On the other hand, if it’s the main door, make sure you pick premium quality shopfront aluminium bifold doors to offer you the maximum security.
As always, make sure that you’re purchasing the door from a trusted supplier, known for their high-quality products without any defects.
