Bi-fold and patio doors in Longbridge

Before your bi-fold or patio doors in Longbridge

This kind of work rarely needs planning permission, but it does have to comply with Building Regulations, and some parts must be certified by a registered installer or signed off by building control. In Longbridge, building control is provided by Birmingham City Council or a registered building control approver (formerly an approved inspector).

A flush threshold needs the outside ground set lower, with drainage in front of the door.
Widening an opening needs a structural engineer's design and building control approval.
Solar control glass can help south- and west-facing rooms in Longbridge stay cooler in summer.

Postcode districts: B31, B38
Planning and building control: Birmingham City Council
From our West Bromwich base: 8 miles

Options to consider in Longbridge

Aluminium bi-fold doors

Slim, strong aluminium frames carry large glass panels and are made with a thermal break to meet energy rules. Three to six panels are typical, with a traffic door for everyday use so you don't open the whole set. They come powder-coated in almost any colour and suit kitchens and new extensions.

uPVC bi-fold doors

uPVC bi-folds cost less than aluminium and insulate well, but the frames are chunkier and the maximum panel size is smaller. They work best on openings up to about three metres wide. White, grey and woodgrain finishes are available, and they can be matched to existing uPVC windows on the same wall.

What does your bi-fold or patio doors cost in Longbridge?

For a home in Longbridge, our guide range is £1,200–£8,500 per doorset. Three-panel aluminium bi-fold, about 2.4 m wide, in an existing opening: usually £3,200–£4,800 per doorset.

Guide prices for bi-fold and patio doors
Option	Guide price	Good to know
uPVC French or sliding doors	£1,200 – £2,400 per doorset	Openings up to about 1.8 m
Three-panel aluminium bi-fold	£3,000 – £5,000 per doorset	Openings of about 2.4–3 m
Four- or five-panel aluminium bi-fold	£4,800 – £8,500 per doorset	Openings of about 3.6–4.8 m

Guide ranges include VAT where it applies. Your fixed price for the agreed specification follows a free survey at your Longbridge address.

Before you book in Longbridge

Which is better, bi-fold or sliding doors?

It depends on how you use the space. Bi-folds open almost the whole width, which suits summer living and wide openings onto a patio. Sliders have fewer, larger panes and slimmer frames, so they give a better view when closed and never take up room when open. Sliders are often the better pick where the doors stay shut for most of the year.

How do I book a survey in Longbridge?

Send the form on this page, use the guide-price tool or call 0800 088 6248 free. We'll ask a few questions about your bi-fold or patio doors and arrange a time to visit.

How long does fitting take?

Fitting doors into a ready opening usually takes one to two days. If we're widening the opening, allow another two to four days for propping, cutting, fitting the beam, inspection and making good. Manufacture usually takes four to eight weeks after the design is signed off, depending on the material and colour.

Will I need permission from the council in Longbridge?

You won't usually need planning permission, but the work must meet Building Regulations. Building control in Longbridge is provided by Birmingham City Council or a registered building control approver, and some work is self-certified by registered installers.

Also covering nearby

Other home improvements in Longbridge

Not sure whether bi-folds or sliders suit your room? We'll talk it through on site in Longbridge, with no obligation.