If you want to maximise the natural light and energy efficiency in your home, then it's worth considering bifold windows. They’re becoming an increasingly popular choice for modern and contemporary homes in Australia and come with a range of benefits.  

If you’re not sure whether bifolds are the right windows for your home, we’ve collected some information that might make your decision easier. Read on to learn more about bifold windows, including:

• What are bifold windows?
• Benefits of bifold windows
• How much do bifold windows cost?
• How do I find a bifold window supplier?
• Getting quotes for bifold window suppliers

What are bifold windows?

Bifold windows use several panes that fold against each other. Usually, you can have 2, 3 or 4 panes that fold to one side in a smooth motion. Opening up your windows to unobstructed views. It’s easy to think of them as mini bifold doors. 

Benefits of bifold windows

While bifold windows were traditionally popular for hotels and other commercial buildings, they’ve become a popular choice in many Australian homes. The modern look they offer draws many but there are other benefits of bifold windows in your home, including:

Security

Bifold windows generally tend to have more lock points than a traditional window. Whether you use them all or not, each pane will have its own lock point and the housings for these will generally be as strong as those used for doors. In fact, most locks for bifold windows use the same hardware as those in bifold doors. 

This means that the materials used are strong enough to protect a door and there are more of them for your window, giving you peace of mind along with incredible views. 

Energy efficiency 

The seals used for bifold doors as well as their interlocking can also add great insulation to your windows, keeping your house cool in summer and warm in winter. If you live in an area of more extreme heat, you can also get the glass panes double or triple glazed to maximise the insulative properties of your window.

Plenty of design choices

Bifold windows come in plenty of design options. Some customisable elements include: the number and size of your panes, the side they fold towards, and the materials they’re made from. Each of these options will mean that no two bifold windows will be the same, making your windows one of a kind. 

You can generally choose bifold windows with 2, 3 or 4 panes. The dimensions of each pane will be determined by the size of the whole window and the number of panes you’re choosing to cover it. 

Some examples of materials you can use for the window frames include:

• Stained and varnished wood
• Anodised aluminium
• Powder-coated composite metal
• PVC
• Painted or coloured fibreglass

Weather resistance

Bifold windows also come with weather-resistant seals to protect your home. If you live in areas with a more extreme climate, it can be a good idea to check with your supplier on the kind of seals your brand of bifold windows use. Some brands only offer single seas while others offer double seals for added protection. 

Unobstructed views and outdoor access

When bifold windows are open, they give you incredible views unobstructed by frames or bars. They are great to span long window spaces, with many people using them in the kitchen to open the house up to an outdoor entertainment area. Passing food between your kitchen and patio or deck will never be easier! 

How much do bifold windows cost?

Due to the benefits and construction of bifold windows, they will usually come at a steeper cost than other window options. If you’re getting bifold windows, expect to pay anywhere between $1,000 - $2,000+ depending on the design options you choose. 

Once you’ve bought your windows from a supplier, expect a glazier to charge between $70 and $90 per hour for installation, plus the cost of glass and other materials. They will probably charge a minimum fee for coming to your home and doing a small job. 

If you want more information on other types of windows, check out our article How much do new windows cost?

How do I find a bifold window supplier?

Before you choose a bifold window supplier, it can be a good idea to ask them some questions, including:

• What services are included?
• Are you registered or licenced
• Are you insured?
• Is the work guaranteed?
• Are your installers vetted?
• Can you provide references?

Getting quotes for bifold window suppliers

At hipages, we always recommend getting at least three quotes before hiring a tradie. The cheapest option may not always be the best one and you may find that there are additional costs down the line that can add up. 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions about anything you’re unsure about. You can always ask about the quotes and get an itemised list of what you are paying for.