Aluminium vs uPVC Bifold Doors (UK 2025): Prices, Sizes, Energy & When to Choose Each

Thinking about bifolds and unsure whether aluminium or uPVC is the smarter buy? Here’s a clear, UK-focused comparison with installed price bands, typical sizes, energy/security notes—and quick rules for choosing the right system for your home.

For a deeper overview of layouts, configurations and buying tips, see our Bifold Doors pillar guide: Bifold Doors.
Ready to ballpark a project? Use the Bifold Door Cost Calculator to see postcode-aware ranges and options.

1) Installed Prices (incl. VAT) — 2025 guide

Rule of thumb (supply & install, standard colours, double-glazed, c. 2100 mm high):

Examples (installed):

• 3-panel uPVC: ~£3,200–£4,200 • 3-panel aluminium: ~£4,500–£6,000

• 4-panel uPVC: ~£4,400–£6,000 • 4-panel aluminium: ~£6,000–£8,800

Price drivers: overall width/height, colour/finish (e.g., dual colour, textured), glass spec (laminated/triple/solar-control), low-thresholds, integrated blinds, trickle vents, building work (steel, new lintel, plastering), and location access.

2) Sizes & Layouts (what fits where)

• Typical panel width: 700–1,000 mm (some systems up to 1,200 mm)

• Standard height: ~2,050–2,150 mm (tall systems up to 2,400 mm+)

• Panel count: 2–7+ (odd counts suit a single “traffic door”)

• Open-through knock-throughs: removing the rear wall needs RSJs and Building Control sign-off.

• Low thresholds: great for level access to patios; check weather rating if fully exposed.

3) Energy & Comfort (Part L friendly choices)

• Target U-values (whole door):

  • uPVC: typically 1.2–1.4 W/m²K with good double glazing; ~1.0–1.2 achievable with triples.

  • Aluminium (thermally broken): typically 1.4–1.6 W/m²K (premium systems can hit ~1.2–1.3 with triples).

• Glazing tips: go low-E, argon-filled; consider laminated inner panes for security & UV reduction; solar-control where you get strong afternoon sun.

• Ventilation: trickle vents or purge ventilation via openers; consider roof vents if part of a larger extension.

4) Security (what to ask for)

• PAS 24:2016 tested door set (or later revision)

• Secured by Design (SBD) accredited system where possible

• Laminated glass to slow opportunists (keeps shards together)

• Multi-point locking, anti-lift pins & robust shootbolts

• Correct toe-and-heel glazing during install (prevents sagging)

5) Aluminium vs uPVC — when each wins

Choose Aluminium if you want:

• Slimmer sightlines and a more architectural look

• Wider panes (better strength/rigidity for big spans)

• Bolder colours (powder-coated RALs, dual colour, textures)

• Long-term stability (less expansion/contraction vs uPVC)

You’ll typically pay more, but you get sleeker frames and easier scaling to large openings.

Choose uPVC if you want:

• Lower up-front cost with solid energy performance

• Easy maintenance and good warranties

• Traditional looks (ideal for many suburban homes)

Sightlines are chunkier, and very large spans are less practical—but value for money is hard to beat.

6) Lead Times, Warranty & Finish

• Lead times: ~3–8 weeks for standard colours; add time for bespoke finishes.

• Warranties: frames typically 10 years, hardware/glass often 5–10 years (check T&Cs).

• Finishes:

  • Aluminium: matte/satin/gloss, structured textures, dual colour.

  • uPVC: foils (anthracite, oak, etc.); darker foils can run warmer in sun—choose quality profiles.

7) Planning, Building Control & Thresholds

• Most replacements fall under Permitted Development; large extensions or structural changes may need a Householder application.

• Building Regulations cover structure, safety glazing, energy, and ventilation; your installer should handle compliance and Building Control sign-off.

• Accessibility: consider level thresholds and patio falls for safe drainage.

Quick chooser (snapshot)

• Modern, slim, big spans, wow factor? → Aluminium

• Best £/m² with solid energy figures? → uPVC

• Coastal/exposed site? → Premium marine-grade aluminium or carefully specified uPVC hardware

• Security-first? → PAS 24, SBD, laminated glass, quality hardware—for both materials

Next steps

• Read the full buyer’s checklist & layouts in our Bifold Doors guide.

• Get a postcode-aware price range with the Bifold Door Cost Calculator.

• Or skip the legwork—get quotes within your price range from vetted installers (we’ll sense-check specs and help you avoid overpaying).