Australians love the outdoors, so it is no wonder that we want to bring the outdoors in with indoor-outdoor entertaining areas. One of the most popular ways to create larger, light-filled open spaces to enjoy the outdoors is with large spanning doors. The two most popular choices are either a stacking door or a folding door.

However, many people are unsure what the differences are between the two doors, and whether they can be screened to keep insects out. Keep reading to learn the differences between stacking versus folding doors and the best ways to screen both.

Stacking doors

Stacking doors have two or more panels that slide in a track to stack up on each other at the end of the opening. The last panel of the door remains fixed, and as one panel slides past the next, they lock together and continue sliding towards the fixed pane. When fully opened, the door panels are all stacked upon each other.

Stacking doors are an excellent option for high traffic areas that you frequently use because of the ease of use when opening and shutting. As stacking doors slide within a track, they do not take up any extra floor space when opened. However, they will have a smaller opening than a folding door, which can open almost entirely without a fixed panel.

Folding doors

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Folding doors, often called bi-folds, consist of several framed panels that are hinged together. When opened, the panels fold up flat against each other at the end of the door opening. Folding doors do not use a rolling track, relying instead on the hinges between the doors to open, As the doors fold flat against each other, they will protrude into the internal or external space, depending on how they are configured.

Folding doors can be opened almost entirely, creating a free-flowing entertainment space with unobstructed views. You can create the illusion of a much larger home, as folding doors generally open up a room by 90%.

How do you screen stacking and folding doors?

Many people believe that folding doors cannot have fly screens. However, both stacking and folding doors can be screened using retractable fly screens.

Retractable fly screens work in a similar way to roller blinds. The insect mesh screen retracts discreetly back into the door frame to give you uninterrupted views. Our patented Freedom Brake System enables the screen to stop safely in any position.

Whether you choose a stacking or folding door for your home, we have the insect screens for you. At Freedom Retractable Screens, we can screen even the largest of doors, with our retractable fly screens spanning up to 13 metres wide! Our extensive range of powdercoated and anodised aluminium finishes will provide you with maximum comfort and functionality.

Architecture & Design Team

Freedom Retractable Screens®

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