Folding Door vs Multi-Slide Door: Which Is Better?

Key Takeaways

• Folding doors are ideal for smaller openings and can provide up to 90% unobstructed views when open.
• Multi-slide doors are best suited for larger openings and offer a sleek, modern look with slim profiles. When opened, it has a 100% unobstructed view.
• Folding doors tend to be more costly due to their complex mechanism but offer more layout flexibility.
• Multi-slide doors can accommodate very large panels and are generally more cost-effective for expansive openings.

What are Folding Doors

Folding doors consist of multiple panels that fold onto one another when opened, similar to an accordion. Also known as bi-fold or accordion doors, they are typically suspended from a track above and glide smoothly to stack neatly at the side of the opening. This design allows you to open up an entire wall, seamlessly merging your indoor and outdoor spaces.

Each panel is connected by hinges and, as you pull one panel, the rest follow in a smooth, concertina motion until they’re all stacked to the side. This design gives you the flexibility to go from cozy to expansive in seconds.

Our Residential Thermally Broken TS.75 Folding Door.

Advantages of Folding Doors

One of the biggest draws of folding doors is their ability to create an expansive opening that can be as wide as your wall. This feature allows you to maximize your view and lets in a flood of natural light, making your space feel larger and more inviting.

Here’s why you might want to choose folding doors for your home:

• Space-Saving: They require no room to swing open, so you can make the most of your interior and exterior spaces.
• Flexibility: You can opt for different configurations, like opening from the middle, one end, or even incorporating a daily door for easy access without opening the whole system.
• Customization: With a variety of materials, finishes, and sizes, folding doors can be tailored to your home’s specific style. For example, we can design radius or “curved” folding doors depending on your space layout. 

Disadvantages of Folding Doors

However, folding doors do come with a few considerations. 

They generally cost more than other door types because of their complex mechanism. Plus, they need space to the side of the opening to accommodate the folded panels. And, while they’re great at bringing the outside in, they may not be as airtight as other door types, which could be a concern in extreme weather conditions.

What are Multi-Slide Doors

Multi-slide doors consist of individual panels that slide along a track, either disappearing into a wall pocket or stacking against a side wall. Unlike folding doors, the panels do not hinge together but slide independently, offering a different kind of flexibility.

The beauty of multi-slide doors is in their simplicity. The panels glide along the track with ease, and because each panel is independent, you can open just one, or all of them.

Our Residential All Aluminum Slim Profile S.90 Multi-Slide.

Advantages of Multi-Slide Doors

Multi-slide doors are a favorite for those who prefer a sleek, streamlined look. They offer a variety of benefits, including:

• Maximized Views: With minimal frame and maximum glass, these doors provide uninterrupted views. 
• Indoor/Outdoor Flow: By opening up an entire wall, they allow for a seamless transition between your home’s interior and exterior.
• Customization: They can be made to fit large openings, making them perfect for grandiose spaces. We also have a wide range of material options, including steel, which is perfect for coastal applications where corrosion from salt and seawater can be a concern.
• Smooth Operation: Our multi-slide doors have various components including proprietary bottom-running tracks, European hardware, 6063-T6 aluminum extrusions, and Delrin polymer rollers. Together, they provide a smooth, almost “weightless” sensation when opening and closing, even with individual panels weighing up to 500 lbs.

Multi-slide doors can be a more budget-friendly option for larger openings compared to folding doors, and they can be fitted with screens to keep bugs out while letting the breeze in.

Disadvantages of Multi-Slide Doors

That said, multi-slide doors might not be the best choice for every home. They require a large opening, which might not be feasible in smaller spaces.

Folding vs Multi-Slide Doors

Aesthetic Comparison

Folding doors have a charm that can’t be denied – they create a dramatic effect when they fold away, revealing almost the entire doorway. 

Folding doors by Panda can be a real ‘wow’ factor, especially when you’re hosting. 

On the other hand, multi-slide doors have large glass panels and minimal frames – they create a clean, modern look that’s incredibly appealing. Because they slide, the transition from closed to open is more subtle, but still gives a sleek panorama of your outdoor space.

Functional Comparison

Folding doors might be the way to go if you’re looking for options. They can be designed to meet at the corner of a room without a supporting post, creating a truly open concept. Plus, you can choose to open just a single panel as a regular door, or fold them all back for full access.

Multi-slide doors are all about smooth operation and creating large, uninterrupted spans of glass. They can be pocketed into the wall, disappearing from view entirely for a clean, open look. If you have the space to accommodate the track, they can be a game-changer in how you interact with your living room.

Check out the seamless multi-slide door between the dining place and the outdoors. The sample above is our Residential All Aluminum Slim Profile TS.83 Multi-Slide door. 

Cost Comparison

When budgeting for these doors, keep in mind that folding doors typically come with a higher price tag. The intricate hardware and engineering required for their unique folding mechanism can drive up the cost. 

Multi-slide doors, while still an investment, can be more cost-effective, especially for larger openings. They provide a similar impact with less complexity in the mechanism, which can translate to savings. So, if you’re working with a wider space and a tighter budget, multi-slide doors might be your best bet.

Ideal Uses for Each Door Type

Best Situations for Folding Doors

Folding doors are perfect when you have limited wall space but still want the option to open up an entire room. They’re also a smart choice if you’re after a certain aesthetic or if you want the flexibility to partially open the space. Here are a few situations where folding doors would be ideal:

• When you want to connect your living space to your patio or garden but have limited side space for the door to fold into.
• If you’re looking for a door that can double as a daily entrance without having to open the entire system.
• For homes where you want to maintain a traditional look while still enjoying the benefits of an open plan.

Imagine hosting a garden party where your guests can freely move between your kitchen and your beautifully landscaped backyard. Folding doors make this possible without compromising on space or style. The sample above shows our Residential Thermally Broken TS.75 Folding Door.

Best Situations for Multi-Slide Door

For those with a penchant for minimalist design and expansive spaces, multi-slide doors are a dream come true. They’re especially well-suited for:

• Modern homes with large openings that can accommodate the width of the sliding panels.
• Spaces where you want to maximize the glass area for unobstructed views, even when the doors are closed.
• Areas where you have enough wall space to allow the panels to stack or disappear into a pocket.

The sample above shows our Residential All Aluminum Slim Profile TS.83 Multi-Slide door. Multi-slide doors can provide a seamless transition, making your home feel like an extension of the great outdoors. 

Comparison table between folding and multi-slide doors.

Making the Right Choice with Panda Windows & Doors

Deciding between folding and multi-slide doors can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be with Panda Windows & Doors. Consider the specific characteristics of your space, your lifestyle, and your personal taste. Each detail matters and contributes to creating a home that’s uniquely yours.

Consider Space

Space is a major deciding factor. If you’re tight on space where the doors will fold or stack, multi-slide doors may be the way to go. They require less lateral space and can even disappear into the wall. But if you have the room for the dramatic presence of folding doors, they can make a stunning statement.

Think about the flow of your home and how you want the doors to complement it. Do you have a smaller, cozier space that you want to open up occasionally, or do you have a sprawling area that begs for a grand opening? Your space will guide you to the right choice.

Consider Budget

Your budget will also play a crucial role in your decision. Folding doors are an investment in both the aesthetics and functionality of your home. If you’re prepared to splurge for that extra wow factor, they might be the right choice for you. But if you need to stretch your dollars further, especially over a larger area, multi-slide doors will give you that open feel without breaking the bank.

Always get a detailed quote to help you avoid any surprises and ensure that you’re making a choice that’s financially comfortable for you.

Consider Style

Style is subjective, and what appeals to one person might not to another. Think about the architectural style of your home and what door style will enhance it. Folding doors often suit classic and traditional homes, adding a sense of grandeur. 

Multi-slide doors, with their clean lines and minimal frames, are perfect for modern and contemporary homes, accentuating a sleek and sophisticated style.

Contact us to learn more about our folding and multi-slide doors for both residential and commercial purposes. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Popular Configurations for Both Door Types? 

Folding doors are commonly configured to fold to one side, both sides, or in a bi-parting manner. Multi-slide doors can be stacked or hidden within a wall pocket, with options to slide to one or both sides.

Can These Doors Be Energy Efficient? 

Both folding and multi-slide doors can be designed with energy efficiency in mind, using double or triple glazing, low-E coatings, and thermal breaks to help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs.

Are Both Door Types Durable?

High-quality folding and multi-slide doors are built to last, with durable materials and finishes that withstand the elements. Regular maintenance and proper installation are key to their longevity.

What are the Maintenance Requirements? 

Both door types require regular cleaning of the glass and tracks. Folding doors may need additional maintenance on the hinges and folding mechanisms, while multi-slide doors may require occasional adjustments to the rollers for smooth operation.