Last Updated on 26 March 2025 by Tia Ellahi
Concertina Doors: Are they worth it?
Concertina doors are absolutely worth it, offering a stylish solution with the flexibility to open up or divide your home, all while enhancing natural light and adding long-term value.
If you’re considering concertina doors for your home but unsure whether you need an internal or external setup, you’re not alone. From open-plan living to seamless garden views, concertina doors come in a variety of configurations—and getting the right type makes all the difference.
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about internal and external concertina doors, their benefits, and which one might be best for your space.
What This Article Will Cover:
- What concertina doors actually are
- The difference between internal and external setups
- Why aluminium concertina doors are the best material choice
- FAQs
What Is a Concertina Door?
A concertina door—also known as a bi folding door—is made up of multiple panels that fold back on themselves in a zig-zag motion, just like a concertina instrument. This clever folding design allows you to open up a space completely without needing the swing space that traditional doors demand.
Whether you’re using them to connect your kitchen to the garden or to divide rooms inside the house, concertina doors offer flexibility, natural light, and a modern look. You’ll often hear people refer to concertina doors and bi folding doors interchangeably—and that’s perfectly fine. The function is the same; it’s just the terminology that varies.
How Much Do Concertina Doors Cost?
Prices can vary depending on the size, glazing options, and configuration. At GFD Homes, aluminium concertina doors start at around £1,500, with bespoke quotes available for more complex set ups. Although aluminium costs more than timber or uPVC upfront, it’s a long-term investment that offers far better durability, style, and thermal performance.
Internal vs External Concertina Doors
Internal Concertina Doors
Bi folding doors internal setups are designed to be used inside the home to divide rooms or open up living spaces. They’re perfect for open-plan homes where you want the option to close off an area without building permanent walls.
- Ideal for creating zoned spaces like home offices, playrooms, or dining areas
- Can be made with glass panels to retain light and visibility between rooms
- Available in a range of finishes including white, black, and timber-look
Because internal concertina doors don’t have to stand up to the elements, they can be slightly more lightweight than external doors. That said, an aluminium concertina door used internally offers a high-end, premium finish with excellent strength and durability—especially for high-traffic areas like kitchens or hallways.
External Concertina Doors
Concertina doors external options are most often seen connecting indoor spaces to patios, gardens, or balconies. These are typically full-glass aluminium designs that create seamless indoor-outdoor living.
- Maximise natural light and frame outdoor views beautifully
- Highly secure and thermally efficient when made from aluminium
- Create a real wow-factor in kitchens, garden rooms, and extensions
External concertina doors must offer proper weather resistance, insulation, and security. That’s why aluminium is often the material of choice—it’s naturally strong, rust-resistant, and supports larger glass panels without compromising performance.
Why Choose an Aluminium Concertina Door?
If you’re deciding on material, there’s a clear winner here. An aluminium concertina door offers unmatched benefits compared to uPVC or timber alternatives:
Strength & Security
Aluminium is naturally robust, making it perfect for both internal and external setups. It supports high-spec locking systems and offers enhanced protection against forced entry.
Slim Sightlines
Aluminium frames can be much thinner than timber or uPVC, which means more glass and more light.
Durability
It won’t warp, rot, or discolour over time, even in harsh weather.
Low Maintenance
Just a quick wipe-down keeps it looking good as new.
Modern Aesthetic
From crisp white to matte black, aluminium looks sleek in any home.
Which One is Right for You?
Choosing between internal or external concertina doors comes down to how you want to use the space. If you’re creating an open-plan layout inside your home, internal concertina doors give you the flexibility to divide and connect spaces whenever you need. If you’re looking to create a dramatic connection between your home and garden, external glass bi folding doors are the way to go.
Whichever you choose, going with aluminium ensures a strong, secure, and stylish solution that will last for years to come.
Upgrade Your Home with Concertina Doors from GFD Homes
Whether you’re after a sleek internal solution or a stunning aluminium concertina door to open up your garden space, GFD Homes has you covered. We specialise in premium aluminium bi folding doors, offering fully fitted options from trusted brands like Korniche and Smart. You can browse our full range online, explore different configurations, and get a free, no-obligation quote in just a few clicks.
If you’re unsure where to start or have any questions, our expert team is just a phone call away and ready to help.
And for even more inspiration and advice, don’t forget to check out our blog, packed with useful articles to guide your home improvement journey.
FAQs About Concertina Doors
Are concertina doors any good?
Yes—concertina doors are one of the most flexible and space-enhancing door solutions on the market. They offer style, practicality, and can completely transform both internal and external spaces.
What does a concertina door look like?
Concertina doors feature multiple connected panels that fold inwards or outwards, stacking neatly to one side when opened. When closed, they form a full wall of glass or solid panels, depending on the style you choose.
What are the disadvantages of a bifold door?
Bifold (concertina) doors do require more frame than a sliding door, which means slightly less uninterrupted glass. They also need space to stack when open. That said, the benefits in flexibility and full-width openings often outweigh these small drawbacks.
Can’t get enough doors? Here’s more to knock on..
- Smart Bifold Doors: Visofold 1000 – a firm favourite
- Industrial Style Bifold Doors: A game-changer for open-plan living
- How to Clean Bifold Doors
- Trade Concertina Doors: looking for trade prices? Visit our trade site, The Trade Village.
