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Why Industrial Look Bifold Doors are in Fashion

Lifestyle

Industrial look bifold doors, also known as ‘Crittall-style’ doors or steel look doors, are capturing the attention of homeowners, designers, and the press alike. With their bold design and slim-framed glass panels, these doors offer a unique blend of vintage charm and modern practicality. Whether you’re trying to bring more natural light into your home or create a fashionable connection between your indoor and outdoor spaces, industrial style bifold doors are a versatile and visually striking choice. At Express, we offer high-quality aluminium doors and windows that achieve a sleek industrial look while providing durability, energy efficiency, and ease of maintenance. The growing popularity of the industrial look is a testament to how effortlessly they redefine both contemporary and traditional interiors.

 

What are Industrial Style Bifold Doors?

Bifold doors are a favoured option for homeowners, as they allow natural light to flood in and create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. However, by selecting industrial style bifold doors, you’re not only improving practicality but also making a bold statement that transforms the appearance and ambience of your home.

These doors have a rich history dating back to 1884 when Essex ironmonger Francis Henry Crittall first designed them during the Industrial Revolution. By 1889, industrial style doors were being manufactured in the UK, making them a staple in homes and buildings. The iconic steel design draws inspiration from the industrial mill buildings of the era, often featuring tall, slim-framed steel doors and windows paired with high ceilings. This style embraces raw materials like steel and aluminium, along with exposed brick, creating a unique blend of ruggedness and sophistication.

Industrial style bifold doors have gained traction, particularly in California’s glamorous homes, where their slender profiles perfectly complement large openings and the region’s warm climate. This trend has since made its way to the UK, captivating homeowners who appreciate the blend of modern and vintage charm that industrial look doors and windows offer.

 

Why is the Industrial Look So Popular?

In recent years, the industrial style has gained immense popularity. An article by Lick, a team of interior design specialists, discusses the transformation of Battersea Power Station, one of south London’s most iconic buildings, into residential units. This remarkable £9 billion project exemplifies how the industrial trend has become highly aspirational. Additionally, British Vogue has noted the inclusion of the industrial look in the interior design trend known as “Brutalism,” which is characterised by the use of raw, unfinished concrete along with industrial materials.

Below are some key advantages that have contributed to the growing popularity of this interior design trend:

industrial look bifold doors

1. A Modern and Timeless Aesthetic

Marked by its minimalistic approach and sleek lines, the industrial style creates a space that feels both modern and timeless. When thoughtfully designed, it can seamlessly adapt to any home, adding a touch of contemporary sophistication. Whether you live in a newly built apartment or a more historic house, the industrial design can beautifully complement your existing décor and architectural features.

2. The Allure of Bifold Doors

Industrial style bifold doors have captured the imagination of homeowners, and it’s clear why. Their classic design blends traditional and contemporary elements, making them suitable for various tastes. One of their standout features is their ability to serve as striking focal points in any room. With large glass panels, they invite ample natural light into your home, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. This influx of sunlight not only brightens your space but also positively influences your overall quality of life. Given their perfect mix of aesthetics and usability, it’s no surprise these bifold doors are increasingly popular.

industrial look bifold doors
industrial look bifold doors

3. Celebrating Raw Materials and Character

A defining characteristic of the industrial look is its celebration of raw materials and unrefined beauty. It encourages the use of metals, glass, and natural textures, creating authentic and inviting environments that showcase individual taste. The juxtaposition of cool metal with warm wood and soft textiles adds warmth and character to modern interiors, appealing to those who appreciate both style and comfort.

4. Increased Property Value

Featuring open floor plans, large windows, and a blend of old and new components, homes incorporating industrial design are highly sought after in the property market. According to Elevate Realty Group, this style appeals to a wide audience, enhancing a property’s attractiveness to potential buyers. By integrating these characteristics, homeowners can increase value and create a distinctive, trendy living space. So, if you’re planning to sell soon or simply want to boost your home’s market price, investing in industrial style doors and windows is a wise choice.

express bifolds showroom
industrial look bifold doors

5. Practicality Meets Artistic Flair

The industrial look offers a unique blend of practicality and artistic design. Bifold doors and other products like industrial style windows not only provide striking visual appeal but also facilitate easy access to outdoor spaces, improving the overall liveability of your home. This practicality, combined with the artistic elements of industrial design, makes it an attractive option for those who desire fashionable and functional living spaces.

Material Matters: Steel vs. Aluminium Bifold Doors

When choosing a material for industrial style bifold doors, the decision between steel and aluminium often comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Steel bifold doors are historically favoured for their robust, industrial aesthetic, providing an authentic feel that many homeowners desire. However, they come with certain challenges that can affect their practicality. In contrast, aluminium industrial style bifold doors have become increasingly popular due to their numerous advantages and ability to mimic the look of steel. Here are some of the key differences between the two materials:

Weight and Durability

One of the most notable distinctions is weight. Aluminium is significantly lighter than steel, making it easier to handle and install. This lightweight characteristic does not compromise strength; the metal is incredibly durable and malleable, making it a practical choice for bifold doors. Its weather-resistant properties ensure that aluminium windows and doors can withstand the elements while maintaining structural integrity. For families and busy households, aluminium bifold doors offer smooth usability without the heft associated with steel.

casement windows
RAL colour options

Customisation

Both steel and aluminium bifold doors boast versatility, but aluminium excels in blending traditional and contemporary aesthetics. The sleek frames complement various interior preferences, making them suitable for diverse architectural designs, from rustic barn renovations to modern new builds. They can beautifully frame views of gardens or patios while maintaining an open-plan feel that eliminates obstructions. Furthermore, aluminium bifold doors offer extensive customisation options, including a wide array of colours and finishes, allowing homeowners to express their individuality. Steel, while also customisable, may not have the same range of colour options available.

External Use and Maintenance

Bifold doors are an excellent choice for external applications, combining visual appeal with practical benefits. They serve as stunning design features in both commercial and residential spaces, providing unobstructed views and allowing natural light to flood interiors. While steel bifold doors are known for their strength, they can pose challenges for external use unless manufacturers implement additional protective measures. These doors are susceptible to corrosion when exposed to moisture and harsh weather, which can compromise their appearance and long-term durability.

In contrast, aluminium bifold doors are specifically designed to withstand outdoor elements. Their natural resistance to rust and corrosion makes them ideal for external applications, ensuring that they retain their beauty and usability for years. By opting for aluminium bifold doors, homeowners can achieve the desired industrial look while enjoying the benefits of a durable and low-maintenance option.

bifold door maintenance
aluminium features and a christmas tree in a living room

Energy Efficiency

Investing in aluminium bifold doors equipped with thermal breaks and double or triple glazing is highly effective for boosting energy efficiency. This combination lowers U-values, effectively trapping heat inside your home. Aluminium’s strength enables it to support double and triple-glazed panels, which helps retain warmth while minimising energy loss. On the other hand, steel doors often struggle to accommodate complex glazing options, making aluminium the superior choice for modern, energy-efficient homes.

Cost-Effectiveness

When it comes to costs, aluminium bifold doors are generally more economical than their steel counterparts. The manufacturing processes for steel can be complex, leading to higher material costs and longer lead times, which increases the overall expenditure for property owners. Whereas aluminium’s lightweight, malleable nature makes it easier to work with, reducing both labour costs and time. Plus, as stated above, aluminium bifold doors minimise energy loss, which can significantly lower your energy bills over time, and reduce your carbon footprint.

steel look bifold doors
aluminium door security

Security Features

Security is a primary concern for homeowners, and steel look aluminium bifold doors provide a strong defence against intruders. Unlike single-pane glass options, these doors feature multiple frames that make it more difficult for potential intruders to gain access. The robust construction of aluminium doors, paired with high-quality glazing, hardware, and locks, ensures peace of mind for homeowners. While steel doors can also offer excellent security due to their inherent strength, their vulnerability to corrosion means they can weaken over time without consistent maintenance, making them less secure in the long run.

Turnaround Times

Finally, manufacturing processes differ significantly between the two materials. Steel frame production can be time-consuming, requiring specialised skills and extensive preparation. In contrast, aluminium bifold doors can be produced more quickly. Our 200,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Leeds streamlines this process, ensuring efficient production. While at Express we specialise in bespoke aluminium products, through our sister website, Express Bifolds Direct, you can receive pre-made aluminium steel look bifold doors in just 5 days. This rapid service allows homeowners to achieve their desired aesthetic without lengthy delays.

Express Bi folds contractors speaking to George Clarke at the Leeds Manufacturing Site

The best way to truly understand the features and quality of our aluminium steel look products is to visit one of our showrooms. Our knowledgeable staff are available to guide you through the options and explain the benefits in detail, helping you make the best choice for your home.

 

Get The Industrial Look with Express

At Express, we offer fantastic solutions for homeowners hoping to achieve the industrial look without the drawbacks of traditional steel doors. Our industrial style doors are crafted from thermally broken aluminium, which provides the same visual appeal without the high cost and cold temperature associated with steel-framed options. This makes aluminium an excellent alternative for those seeking the sleek, modern appearance of industrial design. We achieve the contemporary steel effect through two methods: Internal Georgian Bars and External Astragal Bars.

industrial look doors

steel look bifold doors

Internal Georgian Bars

This popular method involves incorporating black or dark grey Georgian bars within the glass unit, instantly providing the industrial look that is so sought after in today’s home renovations. For the best results, we recommend ordering our bi-folding doors in RAL 9005 Jet Black. Our entire range, including the XP ViewXP Vision & XP88 models, can be customised with this stunning steel effect, ensuring we have something to suit every architectural desire.

External Astragal Bars

Alternatively, for a more authentic industrial feel, we can attach aluminium bars to the external face of the glass. While this method is more time-consuming and costly compared to using internal Georgian bars, it offers a truly genuine industrial look for those who desire it. If you’re interested in exploring this option, contact our team or visit one of our showrooms, where we can discuss the available choices and weigh the pros and cons of each method.

external astragal bifold doors

Additionally, we can help you achieve an industrial art deco aesthetic with our aluminium windows. The same techniques can be applied across our window range, allowing you to create cohesive industrial style windows by using either internal Georgian Bars or external Astragal Bars. This approach will give any property a contemporary update while maintaining that desired industrial charm.

steel look windows

So, is the Trend Here to Stay?

The industrial look has become a lasting trend in the world of interior design, valued for its blend of vintage charm and modern minimalism. With their slim profiles and large glass panels, industrial style bifold doors are at the forefront of this fad, offering a perfect way to connect spaces and flood your home with natural light. While the appeal of steel doors is undeniable, aluminium bifold doors have taken the spotlight due to their lightweight, low-maintenance design and increased durability. At Express Bifolds, we offer a range of aluminium options that capture the timeless industrial aesthetic without the challenges of traditional steel. Visit one of our showrooms to see how these doors can bring the industrial look to life in your home.

Express Bi-Folding Doors Leeds showroom

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