Architectural designs that seamlessly connect the inside and outside of homes simply reflect the Australian’s love for the outdoors. Large spanning doors are typically used to create larger, light-filled open spaces for indoor-outdoor entertaining; the two most popular choices are stacking doors and folding doors.

How does a stacking door differ from a folding door? Can either door be screened to keep insects out? Read on to learn more about the differences between the two door types and the best ways to screen them.

Stacking doors

Featuring two or more panels that slide in a track to stack up on each other at the end of the opening, stacking doors are excellent for high traffic or frequently used areas thanks to their ease of use when opening or closing. The last panel of the door remains fixed; as one panel slides past the next, they lock together and continue sliding towards the fixed panel. When fully opened, the door panels are all stacked upon each other.

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

Often called bi-folds, folding doors consist of multiple 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 and use. You can create the illusion of a much larger home, as folding doors generally open up a room by 90 per cent.

Screening stacking and folding doors

Both stacking and folding doors can be screened using retractable fly screens, which operate in a similar way to roller blinds. The insect mesh screen retracts discreetly back into the door frame to give you uninterrupted views. The patented Freedom brake system from Freedom Retractable Screens® enables the screen to stop safely in any position.

Regardless of what you choose for your home, insect screens are available for both stacking and folding doors.

Freedom Retractable Screens can screen doors of almost any size with their retractable fly screens spanning up to 13 metres in width. Choose from an extensive range of powder-coated and anodised aluminium finishes for your fly screens.

Architecture & Design Team

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