Structural Design
Strong frame materials
Aluminum alloy frame: Aluminum alloy has a high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent corrosion resistance. It can withstand high wind pressure without deformation, making it ideal for strong winds. For example, an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame, with reinforced thickness, can ensure structural stability during extreme weather. In selecting folding door frames, choose high-compression-resistant aluminum alloys, as they have a long lifespan, are less prone to deformation, and can endure strong winds, making them suitable for a wide range of environments.
Stainless steel frame: Stainless steel, especially grades 304 or 316, offers excellent tensile and torsional strength. In environments like coastal areas where salt fog is a concern, or under heavy rainfall, stainless steel frames effectively prevent rusting, ensuring long-term door use. When choosing materials for folding doors, stainless steel is superior to other aluminum alloys in terms of durability and performance.
Reinforced connecting components.
Heavy-duty hinges: Using high-quality, heavy-duty hinges to connect the folding door panels is crucial. These hinges should have high load-bearing capacity, ensuring smooth operation under frequent use and wind pressure, without loosening or detaching. For example, hinges with damping functions can buffer the opening and closing action, and better stabilize the door panels in strong winds. When selecting hinges, opt for heavy-duty models that ensure smooth daily operation of the folding door.
Secure locking system: Install a robust multi-point locking system to tightly secure the folding door. In strong wind conditions, a multi-point lock distributes pressure evenly to prevent the door from being blown open. Some advanced locks also have anti-theft features, enhancing security. Choosing locks with higher security ensures better protection for the home.
Sealing Design
Edge sealing materials
High-quality rubber seals: Install high-elasticity, weather-resistant rubber seals around the edges of the folding door. These seals can effectively block rain, wind, dust, and cold air. For example, EPDM rubber seals have excellent weather resistance and remain elastic in both high and low-temperature environments, ensuring a good seal. In heavy rain, they prevent water leakage; in cold weather, they block the entry of cold air.
Silicone seals: Silicone seals are also a good choice, as they have stable chemical properties and are resistant to water, wind, and UV rays. Even when exposed to sunlight for long periods outdoors, they won’t degrade, harden, or crack, maintaining a long-lasting sealing performance.
Track sealing design
Sunken track with water bar: For the bottom track, use a sunken design and install a water bar within the track. This ensures that rainwater flows into the drainage system during heavy rain, preventing backflow into the interior. The sealed track design also prevents wind and dust from entering, keeping the indoors clean in windy or dusty environments.
Hidden track with brush seal: Some folding doors feature a hidden track design, with brush seals installed along the track’s edge. The brushes fill gaps between the track and door panels as the door slides, preventing wind and dust from entering. A hidden track also reduces water and dust accumulation, making cleaning and maintenance easier.
Insulation and Heat Preservation Design
Double or multi-layer glass configuration
Insulated glass: Install insulated glass in the door panels. The air layer between the two panes provides excellent thermal insulation. For example, double-glazed insulated glass can block outdoor heat in hot weather and reduce indoor heat loss in cold conditions. It also effectively reduces external noise, providing a more comfortable indoor environment.
Low-E glass (low emissivity glass): This glass is coated with multiple layers of metal or other compounds that reflect most infrared radiation, providing excellent thermal insulation. In extreme temperature conditions, Low-E glass reduces indoor cooling and heating energy consumption while allowing good natural light transmission.
Thermal break materials
Thermal break aluminum structure: If using aluminum alloy folding doors, the thermal break design significantly enhances insulation performance. Thermal break aluminum incorporates insulating strips between aluminum profiles, preventing heat transfer through the material. This keeps the interior warm in cold weather and effectively insulates during hot weather, improving indoor comfort.
Windproof Design
Windproof grooves and blocks: Install windproof grooves and blocks at the edges of the door panels and track. When the door is closed, the windproof blocks fit into the grooves, forming a tight windproof structure. This design effectively reduces gaps between the door and track, preventing strong winds from blowing into the interior.
