What Can Go Wrong if Bifold Doors Are Installed Incorrectly?

Bifold doors are one of the most desirable features in modern home design. They flood spaces with natural light, connect indoor and outdoor living, and add a sleek contemporary finish to any property. However, their success depends heavily on correct installation and specification. When things go wrong, the problems can be costly, disruptive, and damaging to both your home and your enjoyment of the space.

Below, we outline some of the most common issues that arise when bifold doors are poorly installed or specified — and how to avoid them.

1. Poor Weatherproofing and Water Ingress

A watertight seal is crucial for any external door system, but bifold doors have multiple panels and tracks that need careful alignment. If the seals are incorrectly fitted or the frames are not flush with the existing building, you may experience:

Water leaking inside during heavy rain.
Draughts, which reduce energy efficiency.
Long-term damp issues around the threshold and floor.

These problems often stem from rushed fitting, inadequate sealing materials, or installers cutting corners when integrating the frame with the existing wall and floor.

2. Weight and Loading Problems

Bifold doors are heavy, especially in larger spans where multiple glazed panels are used. If the weight is not properly accounted for, issues can include:

Excessive pressure on the floor track, leading to warping or premature wear.
Panels that sag or misalign, making the doors difficult to open and close smoothly.
Structural strain on the supporting lintel or wall if the load has not been correctly distributed.

In severe cases, improper load-bearing design can even cause cracks in plaster, damage to the frame, or unsafe movement of the doors.

3. Wrong Specification of Materials

Not all bifold doors are created equal. Choosing the wrong system or substandard materials can undermine performance:

Cheap aluminium or uPVC profiles may warp, especially if not thermally broken.
Low-grade glass can compromise insulation and safety standards.
Inferior tracks and rollers will wear down quickly under daily use.

Even the best installer cannot overcome flaws in poorly manufactured products, so it’s essential to specify high-quality systems designed for your property’s size and usage.

4. The Importance of Checking Reviews and References

One of the most overlooked steps in the process is researching your supplier and installer. A glossy brochure or smooth sales pitch is no guarantee of quality workmanship. Before committing:

Look for independent customer reviews across multiple platforms, not just the company’s own website.
Ask for case studies and references from recent projects.
Check whether the installer is accredited by recognised industry bodies.
Ensure that both product and installation come with a comprehensive warranty.

Taking time to verify the credibility of both the product manufacturer and the fitting company can save you from expensive remedial work later.

Final Thoughts

Bifold doors can completely transform your home, but only if they are installed with precision and supported by the right specification. Incorrect installation risks leaks, structural issues, and frustratingly stiff operation. By choosing a reputable installer, specifying high-quality materials, and doing your due diligence with reviews, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of bifold living without the headaches.

Download our pre-flight checklist the below and refer back as you need to;

bifold_door_pre_installation_checklist