3 Metre Bifold Doors

Bifold doors have become a popular choice for homeowners seeking a stylish and functional way to open up their living spaces. Unlike traditional sliding or French doors, bifold doors consist of multiple panels that fold back neatly to one or both sides, creating a wide, seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors.

This unique design allows for maximum flexibility—whether you want to fully open up a wall to let in light and fresh air or partially open the doors for a gentle breeze. Bifold doors are available in a variety of materials, including aluminium, timber, and uPVC, allowing them to complement any home style. Ideal for patios, gardens, and even interior spaces, bifold doors enhance the flow of a home while adding a modern touch and maximising natural light.

Number of Leaves

Typically, 3-metre bifold doors are designed with three or four panels, with each panel folding to either side or one side only. For example, a three-panel door might have two panels that fold to one side and one panel that opens independently as a convenient access door, known as a “traffic door.” This traffic door allows easy entry and exit without needing to fully open the bifold system—ideal for everyday use. On a three leaf design, that traffic door can be attached to the other two doors so they all open in the same direction or fixed to the wall so that the traffic door opens one way and the two doors go to the other side.

In theory, you could also choose to have five, six or seven leaves but there would rarely be any point in doing that. Dividing the width between five or more would mean doors of less than 600mm. This is likely to look too busy and frame heavy.

The image below shows th optimium configuration for various sizes.

Master Door Position

Before deciding where you want you master door, consider the layout of the room. Here are some questions to ask yourself.

1. Is there any furniture to walk round to get to the door? For example, if there is a large table in the centre of the room, you may not want to walk all the way round it.
2. How frequently will the door be opened? If frequently, consider the shortest route.
3. During winter, where will the draft blow? This is especially important if it is the only back door and you frequently open it to let a pet in and out?
4. What space do you have outside? Is the door opening on to a wall that inline with the doors or an adjacent wall.
5. Does opening any door mean that you will have to move patio furniture?
6. Will you have curtains? A master door behind the curtain means that you or children may be constantly touching the curtain causing unnecessary wear.
7. What’s the main traffic flow in and out of the space? Think about which side is closest to your main living areas or pathways, as this can help prevent obstructing the flow of movement within your home.

Inward or Outward Opening

You can also choose whether they prefer the doors to fold inward or outward, depending on the layout and space of the interior or exterior. These configuration options allow 3-metre bifold doors to be tailored for a balance of accessibility, functionality, and style, making them a versatile solution for a range of living spaces.

Configuration Options for 3 Metre Bifold Doors

You have several configuration options to suit your 3 metre space, aesthetic preferences, and functional needs. It’s important that your doors look balanced. Have a look at the rest of the house and see if windows in the same view have a particular look that will inform the size of your bifold leaves.

Three Door Configuration

Four Door Configuration

Alternative Patio Doors for Your 3 Metre Space

There are other door options beyond bifold doors, including sliding doors and French doors with side windows.

Sliding doors are an excellent choice for those who want to maximize views and natural light, as their large glass panels offer unobstructed sightlines. They operate by sliding one panel over the other, allowing for smooth, space-saving access to outdoor areas without the need for inward or outward swing space.

On the other hand, French doors with side windows provide a classic, timeless look, often ideal for traditional-style homes. This option offers easy access and ventilation while maintaining a sense of separation between the indoors and outdoors. The side windows—either fixed or with opening options—can brighten the room while framing the main entryway, creating an elegant focal point.

Both sliding doors and French doors with side windows offer functional and aesthetic advantages, making them excellent alternatives to consider for a 3-metre opening.

Book a free home visit and we will advise you of all the options.

3 Metre Bifold Door Gallery