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Stacking Doors vs Bi-Fold Doors: Which Is Best for Your Home?
When it comes to creating seamless indoor-outdoor living, nothing transforms a space quite like a wide-opening door system. For Perth homeowners looking to brighten their homes, improve airflow and elevate their alfresco connection, the two most popular options are stacking doors and bi-fold doors. Both offer impressive benefits, but they suit different home layouts, design styles, and lifestyle needs.
In this guide, we compare stacking doors vs bi fold doors so you can confidently choose the best option for your
renovation, new build or door replacement project.
Understanding the Difference Between Stacking and Bi-Fold Doors
What Are Stacking Doors?
Stacking doors – also called multi-panel sliding doors – feature several panels that glide along independent tracks and neatly stack behind one another. They excel at creating wide openings, maximising views and offering effortless operation without impacting surrounding space.
Benefits include:
- Slim aluminium frames
- Smooth, gliding movement
- Great for large glass expanses
- Space-saving compared to hinged systems
What Are Bi-Fold Doors?
Bi-fold doors consist of multiple panels hinged together that fold like a concertina and slide to one or both sides of the opening. When fully open, they create an almost unobstructed opening, ideal for entertaining and dramatic indoor-outdoor transitions.
Key features:
- Very wide clear openings
- Flexible panel configurations
- Strong architectural impact
Benefits of Stacking Doors
Smooth Operation & Low Maintenance
One of the biggest advantages of stacking doors is their simple, reliable operation. High-quality rollers allow panels to glide smoothly, even in wider systems. With fewer hinges and moving components than bi-folds, maintenance requirements are significantly lower, making them a practical long-term choice.
Aluminium stacking doors are also ideal for Perth’s harsh climate. Aluminium resists warping, rust and UV damage, making it a durable option for coastal and high-sun environments.
Uninterrupted Views
Stacking doors offer expansive glass panels with minimal frame interruption. This makes them perfect for:
- Homes overlooking gardens, pools or views
- Open-plan living areas
- Spaces that need more natural light
Where bi-fold doors feature multiple vertical lines (frame stacks), stacking systems maintain wider, cleaner sightlines.
Ideal for Tight or Furniture-Filled Spaces
Because stacking panels slide along tracks, they don’t swing inwards or outwards. This is a major advantage in:
- Smaller patios
- Narrow balconies
- Living rooms with nearby furniture
- Alfresco kitchens with limited space
If your outdoor area is tight, stacking doors are typically the more practical solution.
Benefits of Bi-Fold Doors
Maximum Opening Width
Bi-fold doors are unmatched when it comes to fully opening a wall. When pushed aside, the panels fold and stack neatly at the edge, allowing almost 100% of the opening to be clear. This creates a dramatic connection between inside and out, which is ideal for entertaining spaces and alfresco dining areas.
Flexible Ventilation Options
Bi-fold doors can be partially opened to suit your ventilation needs. Open one or two panels for airflow or open the entire system
during events. This flexibility is especially useful in homes needing improved cross-ventilation.
Architectural Impact
Bi-fold doors make a striking design statement. They are often featured in premium homes for their visual impact and ability to enhance
both kerb appeal and interior style. The folding motion itself adds a touch of luxury and craftsmanship to the space.
Stacking Doors vs Bi-Fold Doors: Side-by-Side Comparison
Below is a clear comparison to help you determine which door system best suits your home.
Opening Width
- Bi-Fold Doors: Provide the widest unobstructed opening.
- Stacking Doors: Provide large openings, especially with multi-track systems, but not fully unobstructed.
Space Requirements
- Bi-Fold Doors: Need space for the panels to fold, usually to the inside or outside.
- Stacking Doors: Require no swing space, making them perfect for balconies and small alfresco areas.
Maintenance & Durability
- Bi-Fold Doors: More hinges and hardware means more maintenance over time.
- Stacking Doors: Fewer moving parts and easier upkeep.
For Perth's coastal conditions, aluminium stacking doors often have the edge in durability.
Aesthetic Differences
- Stacking Doors: Sleek, modern, lots of glass, minimal framing.
- Bi-Fold Doors: Bold architectural look with distinctive folding panels.
Cost Factors
- Bi-Fold Doors: Typically, more expensive due to complex hardware and installation.
- Stacking Doors: Generally, more cost-effective while still offering wide openings.
Best Applications for Each Door Type
When to Choose Stacking Doors
- You want uninterrupted views.
- Your outdoor space is small or narrow.
- You prefer low-maintenance hardware.
- You want a sleek, modern finish.
- You need a wide opening but not necessarily full-width access.
Common placements include:
- Patios
- Pool-view living rooms
- Alfresco kitchens
- Balcony access
- Wide wall openings in open-plan homes
When to Choose Bi-Fold Doors
- You want the widest possible opening.
- You have sufficient space for panels to fold.
- You prefer a more dramatic architectural look.
- You’re designing a home with large entertaining zones.
Ideal placements:
- Alfresco dining areas
- Large open-plan living rooms
- Entertainment spaces
- Homes with wide exterior walls
Why Aluminium Frames Are Ideal for Both Door Styles
Whether you choose stacking or bi-fold, aluminium offers the best long-term performance for WA homes.
Benefits include:
- Strength and stability: for large panels
- Slim frames: for modern aesthetics
- Low maintenance: won’t warp, crack or swell
- Coastal durability: thanks to corrosion resistance
- Wide colour options: through premium powder-coating
- Compatibility with double glazing
Aluminium is the industry standard for premium door systems, and our custom aluminium craftsmanship ensures
longevity and a superior finish.
Glazing Options That Enhance Performance
Double Glazing
Improves energy efficiency, reduces heat transfer, and minimises noise.
Low-E Glass
Reflects heat, ideal for west-facing openings exposed to Perth’s afternoon sun.
Tinted or Laminated Glass
Offers privacy, glare control and added safety.
Choosing the right glazing boosts your comfort and reduces energy consumption year-round.
Installation Considerations & Renovation Tips
Opening Size
Bi-folds need a greater structural opening, while stacking doors can often retrofit into existing spaces.
Tracks & Drainage
Stacking systems may require deeper track installation. Flush tracks can create seamless flow but require careful water management.
New Builds vs Renovations
- New builds allow you to design larger openings from the beginning.
- Renovations may require structural adjustments or lintel upgrades.
- Engaging a door specialist early ensures proper builder and installer compatibility.
Both stacking doors and bi-fold doors bring incredible value to modern homes, but the right choice depends on your layout, style preferences and the way you use your space. If you’re seeking uninterrupted views, low maintenance and a sleek, modern design, stacking doors may be the perfect fit. If you want the widest possible opening and a bold architectural feature, bi-fold doors are hard to beat.
Whatever your preference, choosing custom aluminium doors from us ensures superior durability, performance and craftsmanship designed specifically for Western Australian conditions.
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