Do you need a new door for your home but don't know where to start? Accordion doors are a great option because they're unique and can serve multiple purposes. But what type of material should you choose for your accordion door?

This guide will explore the pros and cons of several types of materials and help you make the best decision for your home!

The Benefits of Accordion Doors

Before jumping in, let's take a moment to explore why you would actually want to consider installing an accordion door in the first place. There's no point choosing a material if you're unsure whether this is actually the kind of door you want in your home.

So, what are some benefits of accordion doors?

Save Space

One big benefit is that they can save space. If you have a small home or apartment, then you know how important it is to make the most of every square inch. Accordion doors take up far less space than traditional doors because they slide open instead of swinging out.

This is incredibly convenient if you have a tight entryway or need to partition off a room without taking up a lot of space.

They Look Amazing

Accordion doors also have a unique look that can add to your home's aesthetic. They come in various colors and styles, so you're sure to find something that fits your taste. You can even get them custom-made to perfectly match the rest of your decor!

They're Versatile

Another great thing about accordion doors is that they're extremely versatile. They can be used as both interior and exterior doors, so you're not limited to just one area of your home.

They're also great for partitioning off rooms or creating a private space within a larger room. Whether you want to use them for privacy, security, or simply to add some style to your home, accordion doors are a great option.

Now that we've looked at some benefits of accordion doors let's explore the different types of materials they're made from.

Allows for Lots of Natural Light

One thing that all homeowners can appreciate is a door that lets in lots of natural light. And if that's what you're looking for, then a glass door is the way to go.

The only downside to glass doors is that they're not as private as other options. If you're looking for a door to create a private space, then you might want to consider something else.

That being said, accordion doors are ideal for natural light because it doesn't really matter what they're made of because the fact they can open up breaks down the boundaries between the inside and outside worlds.

Not only is this great for allowing in a ton of natural light, but it's also the same for airflow and letting nature into your home. This is a great, if not the best, way to improve the air quality in your home as well as increase the amount of natural light.

Material Options of Accordion Doors

Now we know a little bit more about accordion doors, let's explore the different types of materials they're made from. This will help you decide which one is the best option for your home.

Glass

Glass doors are perhaps the most common kinds of accordion doors, usually installed on exterior walls, and are made from thick, glazed, and tempered glass panels with a frame made from any of the materials we'll list below.

These kinds of doors are commonly referred to as bi-folds or folding glass doors; many homeowners prefer them since they allow an insane amount of natural light to enter the home.

Wood

One popular material for accordion doors is wood. Wood doors have a classic and natural look that can add to your home's overall aesthetic. Perfect for homes opting for a biophilic look. Wooden accordion doors are also known for their strength and durability, so you can rest assured knowing that your door will last for years to come.

The only downside to wood doors is that they're not as energy-efficient as other options. If you live in a climate with extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, then you might want to consider another material.

Aluminum

If you're looking for a more energy-efficient option, then aluminum is a great choice. Aluminum doors are great at keeping the heat in during the winter and out during the summer. This can help you save money on your energy bills and keep your home more comfortable all year long.

However, aluminum doors are not as durable as other options. If you live in an area with high winds or lots of rain, then you might want to consider another material.

Metal

While aluminum is the most popular material for accordion doors, that doesn't mean other metals can't be used. For example, steel may be used to create a contemporary look while adding strength to a structure, or its density is fantastic when used as a divider.

Steel is also thinner than aluminum, which makes the frames suitable for more diverse situations, but steel still remains heavier, which may not be ideal for some homeowners, such as those with children.

Vinyl

If you're looking for a durable and weather-resistant option, then vinyl is a great choice. Vinyl doors are designed to withstand the elements, so they're perfect for anyone who lives in an area with extreme weather conditions.

What's more, vinyl is a much more affordable option compared with metal and wooden alternatives. This allows accordion doors to be enjoyed by households living on a broader budget, and the fact there are endless designs and aesthetics makes it easy for homeowners to choose a style they'll love.

On top of all this, vinyl is renowned for being relatively maintenance-free, requires no servicing, and is naturally long-lasting, meaning less money needs to be spent on repairs or replacing the doors in years to come.

PVC

PVC (Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) is a type of plastic that's solid, firm, durable, and ideal for accordion doors. Most doors will be made from either PVC entirely or have PVC frames supporting the glass panels inside them.

There are so many benefits that come from using PVC as your chosen material, including;

● Enhanced durability, including being anti-corrosive and moisture-resistant

● Providing ample insulation and is incredibly energy-efficient

● Being aesthetically pleasing and available in multiple styles

● Lightweight, both for installing and operating

● Sits at a very affordable price tag

All of these benefits make it very easy to see why PVC is so popular.

Summary

To many homeowners, having accordion doors seems like a bit of a pipedream that could never be their home, but this couldn't be further from the truth.

If you take the time to choose the right materials for your accordion doors, you'll surely discover a door that matches your budget, looks terrific, suits your home, and can breathe a new lease of life into your space.

It's an investment that could help you fall in love with your home all over again!

July 13, 2022 — Della Wang