Last Updated on 18 October 2024 by Tia Ellahi
How do you Adjust Bifold Doors?
In the rare instance that your bifolds need adjustment, you may be able to make slight changes using the adjustable rollers (if your model has them). For more significant adjustments, it’s best to contact your manufacturer or fitter for assistance.
Bifold doors are a stylish and space-saving solution for many homes. However, like any door, they can sometimes require adjustments to keep them operating smoothly.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the process of adjusting bifold doors, helping you maintain their functionality and appearance.
It’s important to note that high-quality bifold doors installed by professionals should rarely need adjustment. If you do encounter issues, we recommend contacting the manufacturer or fitter, as adjustments may be covered under your warranty or service agreement.
Signs you need to adjust your bifold doors
Before diving into the adjustment process, it’s essential to identify the signs that your bifold doors need attention:
Difficulty opening or closing
If you struggle to open or close your bifold doors, it indicates a need for adjustment.
Doors not aligning properly
Misaligned doors may not close completely or may rub against each other.
Uneven gaps between the doors
Inconsistent gaps can affect the appearance and functionality of the doors.
Doors coming off the track
If the doors frequently come off the track, adjustments are necessary to keep them in place.
As this issue doesn’t tend to happen often, we recommend consulting with your manufacturer or supplier if you experience it.
Noisy or stiff movement
Squeaking or stiffness during operation suggests the need for lubrication or alignment.
What you will need
To adjust your bifold doors, you’ll need the following tools:
- Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead): For adjusting screws and brackets.
- Adjustable wrench: To make precise adjustments to pivot brackets.
- Tape measure: To ensure even gaps and proper alignment.
- Level: To check the door alignment.
- Lubricant spray (silicone-based recommended): To reduce friction and ensure smooth movement.
- Cleaning cloth: To clean the track and remove debris.
How to adjust a bifold door step-by-step
1. Inspect the door and clean the track
Begin by inspecting your bifold doors to identify any obvious issues. Remove any debris or dirt from the track using a cloth. A clean track ensures smoother door movement and can often resolve minor issues.
2. Adjust the door height
If your bifold doors are scraping the floor or not aligning properly at the top, the most common cause is incorrect toe and healing. This process ensures the weight of the glass is correctly distributed, which is crucial for proper operation.
Many bifold doors, however, do not come with the option for height adjustment. Some models do feature adjustable rollers, which allows for minimal alignment.
If you feel like the bifold has not been fitted correctly, don’t be afraid to contact the manufacturer/ fitter.
3. Align the doors
Proper alignment is crucial for bifold doors to function correctly. If one door is misaligned, contact the manufacturer/ fitter and let them know.
4. Check the gap and clearance
Ensure there is an even gap between the doors and that they do not rub against each other or the door frame.
If the doors do rub against each other, contact your manufacturer/ fitter and let them know.
5. Add a lubricant
A silicone-based lubricant spray can significantly improve the smoothness of your bifold doors’ operation. Apply the lubricant to the track and pivot points, wiping away any excess with a cloth. This step helps reduce friction and noise.
6. Test the door
After making the minor adjustments, test the doors by opening and closing them several times. Ensure they move smoothly without any obstructions or noise. If you encounter any issues, revisit the previous steps.
If you’re thinking about purchasing a bifold door, feel free to read our ‘what is a bifold door‘ article too.
Maintenance tips for bifold doors
Regular maintenance can extend the life of your bifold doors and prevent future issues. Here are some tips:
- Clean the tracks periodically: Remove dirt and debris to ensure smooth operation.
- Lubricate the track and pivot points: Apply lubricant every few months to reduce friction.
- Inspect the doors for signs of wear and tear: Address any issues with the manufacturer or supplier to prevent further damage. This also includes reporting any loose screws or brackets rather than attempting to tighten them yourself.
Understanding how to adjust bifold doors can help maintain their functionality and appearance, whether you have Korniche bifold doors, a Korniche 3-pane bifold door, or any other type of bifold door. Regular maintenance and slight adjustments ensure your bifold doors remain a practical and stylish feature in your home.
If you’re looking to purchase bi-fold doors for your home, feel free to browse our popular GFD Homes bi-fold collection, or alternatively, call us on 01642 309576 for some help and guidance.
To avoid future bifold door adjustments, you may also want to check out our professional bifold installation service too.
Prefer to see a bi-fold door in person? Call us on the number above to book a visit to our Teesside showroom– we promise you won’t regret it!
FAQs about Adjusting Bifold Doors
Why is my bifold door not closing properly?
A bifold door may not close properly due to incorrect toe and heeling, which is the most common cause of misalignment.
If you notice any visible issues, it’s crucial that you report them back to the manufacturer/ fitter immediately.
How do you get a bifold door back on track?
It is very unlikely that a bifold door will come off the track. If you encounter any visible problems, it’s best to report them to the manufacturer or fitter to ensure proper repairs or adjustments are made.
Can I change the height of my bifold doors?
If your bifold doors have adjustable rollers (also known as pivot brackets in Europe), you should be able to change the height of the doors. Adjustable rollers allow for very small height adjustments to help align the doors.
However, for more significant adjustments, it’s important to contact the manufacturer or fitter to ensure all changes are done correctly.
Here are some other articles we think you might enjoy…
- How do you adjust a sliding glass door?
- How to open bifold doors
- How to adjust double-glazed doors
- How to stop bifold doors blowing in the wind
