All posts by Eduardo Savin

Acoustic Insulation: How Folding Doors Help Reduce Noise 

In addition to withstanding extreme weather conditions, exterior doors must also deliver strong acoustic performance, especially in urban areas, near busy roads, airports, or industrial zones. External noise can significantly affect the quality of life and indoor comfort of a home, office, or commercial space. 

The level of sound insulation in a folding door depends on several factors: the type of glass, perimeter seals, system airtightness, and installation quality. In the case of Accordion Bifold doors, double or triple-glazed units are used, with the option for acoustic laminated glass, which significantly reduces sound transmission from the outside. 

Moreover, the system is designed with high-compression seals and multi-point locking mechanisms, which help eliminate air and sound leaks, even across large openings. This not only enhances indoor acoustic comfort but also contributes to the space’s overall energy efficiency. 

For residential projects in noisy city environments or commercial spaces that demand quieter, more private interiors, folding doors with proper acoustic insulation offer a smart, functional, and visually appealing solution. 

Resistance to Wind, Water, and Air: What You Need to Know 

One of the most critical performance factors for any exterior door system is its ability to withstand wind pressure, prevent water infiltration, and maintain airtightness. These characteristics are especially important in high-rise buildings, coastal areas, or regions with heavy rains and strong gusts. 

For Accordion Bifold doors, these three factors have been tested according to internationally recognized standards: 

• ASTM E 330 – Measures structural performance under wind load. 

• ASTM E 331 and E 547 – Evaluate water penetration under static and cyclic pressure. 

• ASTM E 283 – Analyzes air leakage through the system under specified pressure conditions. 

To meet these demanding conditions, the doors are equipped with high-compression perimeter seals, concealed drainage systems, and reinforced aluminum profiles with thermal breaks. Additionally, stainless steel rollers and fully sealed top or bottom tracks ensure smooth operation regardless of external conditions. 

 Energy Efficiency: How Folding Doors Contribute to Indoor Comfort 

Today, energy efficiency is a key consideration in any architectural project. A poorly insulated door can result in significant heat loss during winter and heat gain in summer, directly impacting energy consumption from heating or air conditioning systems. 

In the case of Accordion Bifold doors, the system is designed to deliver high thermal performance, thanks to three essential features: 

• Thermally Broken System in aluminum profiles: a 30 mm internal polyamide barrier prevents temperature transfer between exterior and interior surfaces. 

• Double or triple glazing with optional Low-E coating: this glass type helps control heat and UV transmission without sacrificing natural light. 

• Airtight compression seals: these minimize air leakage, improving the thermal stability of the space. 

Additionally, the system’s thermal performance is backed by NFRC 100 (U-factor) and NFRC 200 (SHGC and visible light transmittance) certifications, providing reliable data for architects and builders when performing energy calculations. 

So, if you’re struggling with high energy bills due to air conditioning, this kind of door system could be a smart, energy-saving solution. 

Configuration and Design: How Versatile Are Folding Doors? 

One of the key advantages of folding doors is their ability to adapt to different architectural needs, whether in residential or commercial projects. 

Thanks to their modular design, it’s possible to configure systems with multiple panels that fold to one or both sides, allowing for wide openings without the need for intermediate structures. 

In the case of the PRL Accordion Bifold system, configurations of up to 14 panels per system are possible, with inward or outward opening. It also offers stacking options to the left, right, or split, depending on the space layout. 

Other important design features include: 

• Top or bottom tracks: depending on project requirements, you can choose a bottom-rolling system (more stable in severe weather conditions) or a top-hung system (ideal for clear floor transitions). 

• Flush threshold: allows for seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor areas, improving universal accessibility. 

• Glass compatibility: supports a variety of glass types depending on the required level of security, thermal insulation, or acoustic performance. 

Folding doors have become an architectural solution that addresses not only aesthetic preferences but also increasingly demanding technical requirements. 

Their ability to provide full openings, structural resistance, thermal and acoustic insulation, and design flexibility makes them an ideal choice for residential, commercial, and institutional projects. 

In the face of extreme weather, such as coastal areas or regions with high winds and heavy rain, having a certified system makes a real difference. PRL’s Accordion Bifold doors, tested and certified under ASTM and NFRC standards, deliver proven protection and performance without compromising the look or functionality of a space. 

If you’re looking for a closure solution that combines contemporary design with energy efficiency and structural safety, high-performance folding doors are definitely worth considering.