Panoramic bifolding doors review

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Nick Dardalis

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Panoramic bifolding doors are designed unlike other folding doors on the market.  It is fair to say these aren’t actually bifolding doors because of its hingeless system as well as the way the doors slide, turn and open.  A well engineered, high quality door system, Panoramic slide and turn doors offer innovation, premium grade materials and expert craftsmanship. The way these doors work and the added versatility over regular bifolds is their best feature.

In this Panoramic bifolding doors review, we give some background on the company as well as a full run-down on the door itself.  There are several great reasons why this slide and turn bifold door is worthy of consideration alongside other brands.

Update May 2023

Since we wrote this review, the company has ceased trading, but other suppliers offer a similar style of door. You can get in touch with us for more information and also check out our alternative product suggestions for slide and turn doors.

panoramic bifolding doors in a new house

Information about Panoramic Doors

The original concept for the Panoramic door came about when Alan Rees, attended a trade show in America.  By listening to problems customers face often creates a great idea for a new product or business.  While bifolding doors are excellent as one of many types of patio doors for the home, often their functionality does not work for every kind of project.

Therefore, the people behind this altogether different type of bifolding door set about creating a door for the American market first. The UK version of this door arrived in 2012. Continuously improved and updated, the Panoramic bifolding door offers an alternative for homeowners and the trade to consider.  The door is reliable, functional, secure and thermally efficient.  You also get all the advantages of colour choice thanks to powder coated aluminium.  It also cleverly comes with a range of options to improve the user experience and interior comfort.

As a business Panoramic Group also has Pano Glass, Alumen and Wellglaze Doors and Windows. Therefore, in addition to slide and turn doors, you get a complete range of products for the home. The Panoramic Group offers sliding doors, slimline patio doors, flush sash windows, contemporary front doors, screens, blinds and glass products.

Specifications and features of Panoramic slide and turn doors.

As you would expect from a cutting-edge and latest generation aluminium product, the construction of the doors is from thermally insulated aluminium. A multiple chambered PVCu core separates the internal and external aluminium profiles.  This profile construction creates a thermally efficient door with low U-Values of 1.6 Wm2K.  For new extensions and renovations, the doors meet current Building Regulations too.

Also available with the doors is toughened glass as standard or a laminated glass upgrade.  Therefore, this door has all the performance specifications of some of the best bifolding doors on the market.

These doors are ideal for a new extension or as a replacement for old French doors with side panels, patio doors and even early generations of bifolding doors.

Importantly, it is the independently moving panels that differentiate Panoramic bifolding doors from other sliding folding doors.  Unlike conventional bifolding doors that are connected with hinges, here, each panel moves on its own.  While arguably more operations are needed to open a multiple panel door such as a six or seven panes large door, in our view, this is subjective and not a negative.   Every type of bifolding door needs several operations to move the panels from the locked position.  Moreover,  the independent panels provide more features than conventional bifolds.

panoramic slide and turn doors

No visible door hardware.

Cleaner sight lines, especially from inside the room are the first feature of these doors.  Compare these to hinged, concertina doors, and you will see no visible hardware.  No hinges, no door magnets, no intermediate handles, no visible door rollers and no flush bolt handles.  Even the fully stacked doors look neater. The only hardware visible on Panoramic slide and turn doors is the handle on the main traffic door.

You also get the choice of eight different handle colours including graphite, bronze, chrome, gold and the expected black and white.  There is even an option for keyless entry using the latest Yale locks.

The ingenious way these doors work means all the security with none of the visible hardware.

More opening options.

It is the added functionality the independent panels, providing more opening options over hinged bifolding doors.  You can move each panel anywhere you wish, and all the time there is no encroachment on the inside or outside space.

Above all, these doors look like big windows, thanks to no visible hardware, and offer multiple ventilation options.  Open the traffic door and move the doors to any position you like for ventilation. This slide and fold arrangement means you move the panels to the middle, the ends or have just one air gap.  As a result, you get added options such as letting children go in and out of one side, while adults sit and relax on another side of the doors. It’s also great for creating a gap for pets to go in and out of the house without having to open a door every time.

Even better is these doors again being ideal for terraced houses with only one rear door. They behave like a window, like a partition and of course, like a fully opening bifolding door.  Everyone accepts bifold doors don’t get used every day.  This design of bifold lets you leave the door panels anywhere you want in a safe, ventilated position.

Just like a bifold, these doors come with the traffic door option. The traffic door lets you use the bifolds daily without having to move the panels back every time. This feature with any bifold is useful in terraced houses, for instance, where often there is only one back door.  However, unlike many bifolding doors, the Panoramic product offers a hold open facility to the traffic door for added control and functionality.

panoramic bifolding doors

Better ways to use your furniture and the inside of your home.

With any inward or outward opening set of bifolds, you need to leave a fair amount of space clear to get to the doors as well as leaving space for the doors to concertina together.  Consequently, bifolds mean keeping patio furniture clear on open out doors and your house furniture clear from the inside of the doors.

Once more, the slide and turn, independent panel design let you make more of your room. As the doors stay flat in their track until they reach their folding destination, you get more space in your room.  You can position a television, table and chairs or sofa right up to the doors.  On the outside, these doors are perfect for small patios. Usually, a sliding door remains the only option for small outside spaces.  Panoramic bifolding doors provide a solution to those homeowners wanting a bifold instead.

Quality range of colours.

Choosing a Panoramic door gives you the same extension colour choices as other aluminium doors.  What you also get is some unique colours other brands don’t easily offer, if at all.

As standard, the door comes in Black, White, Anthracite Grey.  Then you have a textured grey finish which is rougher to the touch and very contemporary.  Given the modern, square and consistent sight lines of this door over other bifolds, the textured finish works very well.  There is also a Solid White Oak option and a Mahogany finish for those wanting a wood effect appearance.

Of course, you also get the full choice of over 150 RAL colour, including a different colour inside and out.  The internal timber finish is an excellent touch too, giving a bit of real-wood luxury to the product.

Comparing Panoramic Doors to other bifolding doors.

Our at-a-glance guide gives an overview of the features the Panoramic slide and turn door has over some popular brands like Origin, Smart Systems Visofold 1000 and the Aluk product.  The nature of these doors means there is no direct competitor on a like-for-like basis. However, it does indicate how these doors compare with three of the best selling brands.  You can also reasonably compare Panoramic bifolds with other top brands such as  Schuco, Reynaers or Sunflex, even though all of these are slimmer in appearance.

panoramic bifolding doors
panoramic group
Panoramic Doors vs Bifolding Doors
Feature Panoramic Doors Origin Bifolds Visofold 1000 Aluk Optio BSF70
Independent Moving Panels ✓      
No Visible Hardware ✓      
Door Mullion Sight Lines 145mm 154mm 132mm 140mm
Maximum panel sizes 1200x3000mm 1200x3000mm 1200x2500mm 1200x3000mm
Full RAL Colour Range ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Woodgrain Colours ✓ ✓ ✓  
Security Certification PAS 24 PAS 24 PAS 24 PAS 24
Typical U-Value 1.6 1.5 1.5 1.6
Threshold Options Three Two Two Two
Traffic Door Option ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Perimeter Locking ✓      
Installed Guarantee 10 years 20 years 10 years 10 years
Colour Matched Hardware   ✓ ✓ ✓
Flyscreen Option ✓      
Square Sight Lines ✓      
Keyless Entry Option ✓      

Security on Panoramic bifolding doors.

All types of bifolding doors come with high security features, and many tested to the latest security standards.  Conventional bifolds rely on the locking system to the lead leaf and intermediate shoot bolts or another additional locking for the other panels.

The Panoramic door comes with the same PAS24 security certification as other quality brands of aluminium doors.  However, they come with a different design and locking method.  Each panel locks and engages with a male-female arrangement. The male part of one panel locks into the female part of the corresponding panel.  The panel also bolts securely in the head. Not only does this locking method secure the doors across the entire height of the panel, but it also creates a virtual perimeter locking system. Conventional bifolds rely on the top and bottom shoot bolt locks.  These are secure too. However, the method on these doors offers a locking point across a greater area of the door panel.

As well as this you also get very rigid doors compared to concertina style doors.  Doors are bolted into the head and therefore minimal deflection. For the traffic door, you get a six-point locking with additional upgrades to a Ultion cylinder – one of the very best on the market.

Using slide and turn doors.

Using the doors is smart and comfortable.  Open the traffic door first, then slide each panel to the end position and turn open.  Other doors give you magnets – these doors give you a brilliant switch, locking the leaves so that they stay tight and they do not foul the handle of the lead door.

The patented technology on these doors means you get a magnet on each leaf and another inside the head. Releasing each door is easy with a catch releasing the doors, moving each door leaf effortlessly.

Even better is the clever cill system with these doors, giving you a lower threshold than other systems and that desirable flush floor finish when you want it.

With door mullion sight lines of 145mm, these are not amongst the slimmest bifolding doors.  However the sight lines are unimportant over large span doors and bearing in mind the added ventilation, space saving and these being doors you can realistically use most of the year, in winter and summer. And for those wanting tall doors, 3 metre heights are available.

Panoramic bifolding doors. What we think.

As we say across the website, there is no bad product on the market.  But in a very mature market, what we now have is businesses such as the Panoramic Group offering alternative products with great design, engineering and improved features.  The independent sliding panel nature of these particular doors remains relatively unique amongst bifolding doors.  There are frameless versions available as well as models in PVCu, also using the same separate panel concept are doors and screens used in pool enclosures and partition systems.  However, for patio doors, there are numerous benefits to using aluminium over PVCu.

However, for an exterior bifolding door, Panoramic bifolds are fit for purpose and altogether different.  Not only will you get a more flexible bifold, but we think these doors are also excellent for internal room dividers too.  The lack of visible hardware on these doors makes a Panoramic door ideal for an internal partition, to separate a conservatory or create a more flexible internal space. These doors look clean, neat and attractive overall.

Get in touch today to find out more.

Also available with these doors are an excellent range of integral blinds that we suggest you look into – more flexible in use and better in our view than the mainstream brands of blinds in glass.  There is even an intelligent flyscreen system you can have with these doors. These fit any other brand of bifolding door too.

Our research indicates the price of Panoramic slide and turn doors being comparable to other fine doors such as Origin, Smart Systems Visofold, Aluk Bifolding doors and other brands.  Therefore if you are currently looking for a new bifold and are looking at what brand or type of patio door is best for your home, we suggest you check out these doors as well. See them, see how they work, try them out. We are confident you’ll be impressed with the product.

Finally, use our contact form to get in touch to find out more, ask a question about Panoramic bifolding doors and find out where to buy.

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Andrew DOBSONAndrew DOBSON
16:42 30 Oct 23
Nick responded incredibly quickly to my enquiry (on a Saturday too!), and was able to offer invaluable advice on both aluminum systems and manufacturer / suppliers. Thanks Nick!
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Chris WesthorpChris Westhorp
19:55 13 Sep 23
Extremely helpful with pointing us in the right direction to find the products we required and suggesting firms that could reliably fit them.Nick was quick to reply and very detailed in his advice.Highly recommend reaching out to them.
Cathy GreenwoodCathy Greenwood
07:03 11 Sep 23
Update - A second email to nick for help on bifolds resulted in a detailed informative reply even on a Sunday ! This guy is so knowledgable and helpful .I approached Nick for an independent view on sliding doors v bifold and the different brand options . His reply was extremely detailed and prompt and allowed me to navigate this often confusing world in a much more informed way . Thanks so much Nick
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20:24 26 Jul 23
I contacted Nick @ ATS for guidance on what aluminium sliding door systems would be suitable for an opening in an extension that is going to be both wide and tall. He came back really quickly with very detailed and incredibly helpful advice. He is clearly extremely knowledgeable about the systems on the market and their respective features and capabilities. If you’re feeling a bit lost by the overwhelming range of choices out there, I’d definitely recommend contacting him.
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Alan FosterAlan Foster
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Absolutely fantastic. Asked for advice about replacing Crittall (?) windows late last night and early this morning received 3 great suggestions and contact information for suppliers
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guard Charlieguard Charlie
12:28 14 May 23
I emailed this company just on the off chance they could help me with new magnetic sliders for my patio door. They were not able to supply those but were so very helpful providing me with the name of a company who could. I am so very grateful at the great service. Dare say customers must be very happy. thank you so much.
Benjamin LewisBenjamin Lewis
10:06 04 May 23
Nick is very helpful indeed. Extremely knowledgeable on bifolds which was in relation to my query. Great website as well, some very useful articles. Particularly appreciated the article that lists all the major bifold options in order of their sightlines! Thank you!
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After a lot of research to find doors that would meet our unusual size requirements and feeling increasingly uncertain about the best way to spend our small budget, I stumbled on the ATS website, and I'm so glad I did! I contacted ATS to request advice and Nick promptly replied with a wealth of information, providing us with options and relevant contact details. I only wish I'd found them sooner!
Carol NortonCarol Norton
10:01 17 Mar 23
I've been so confused about how to achieve the look I'm after, and going round in circles with various window/door companies, trying to get away from the huge chunks of plastic currently around my windows. I didn't expect an email to a company found through a Google search to really help - but I was desperate, so I tried. I'm SO glad I did. Finally I have clear explanations from ATS of where I've been going wrong, exactly what I'm looking for, and a list of local companies that might be able to provide it! The response has excelled my expectations and I feel as if I'm finally inching closer to a home with which I'll be happy and comfortable: thank you.
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It is rare that I write reviews, however after my very positive communication with Nick - enquiring about suitable slim sash aluminium windows for my project, I felt that a review was definitely warranted. I can reinforce the many positive reviews posted so far, Nick was very quick to respond, providing comprehensive detail, with excellent independent advice.In summary, great service, thank you Nick.
Chantal AuerbachChantal Auerbach
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Nick from Aluminium Trade Supply was incredibly helpful informative and pleasant to deal with. He responded quickly to emails and was very knowledgeable. Highly recommend being in touch with Nick if you are considering new aluminium windows or doors.
Lee JonesLee Jones
20:21 22 Feb 23
I dropped Nick at Aluminium Trade Supply an email re high security slim sightline bi-folds and their alternatives and he responded that quickly (and so comprehensively) that I felt bad I’d not paid him for his time!Nick Sir your product knowledge is outstanding and you are providing a level of service that goes wayyyy above and beyond expectations. I’ll definitely make sure I mention Aluminium Trade Supply to anyone I encounter looking for a fenestration solution 🙏🏼
G JG J
15:13 13 Feb 23
We are looking to replace some old UPVC patios doors with aluminium ones. The ATS website is a great source of advice in an area where clear information is sorely lacking. Having used the website, I then followed this up with a number of specific questions relating to our search, and Nick came back very quickly with clear, detailed and very useful advice.I have been very impressed with both the website and with Nick's advice. My only regret is that I didn't come across ATS before replacing various windows in 2021 - I'm sure it would have saved me a lot of grief and money! Thanks again Nick.
Azza McCabeAzza McCabe
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So impressed with this company.Responded to my query quickly andgave valuable advice. Nick was extremely helpful and we were able to move forward with our project.
Adri LoloçiAdri Loloçi
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Nick was super fast to respond and provided some great recommendations. I would recommend this website to anyone looking to find bifold or sliding aluminium doors.
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Looking for aluminium crittall style internal door and external patio French doors. Noted good reviews and thought would ask for advice. Comprehensive reply with excellent independent advice and lists of fitters who could provide products and installation. Great service.
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Nick from Aluminium Trade Supply has been extremely helpful with navigating the jungle that is aluminium glazing for our upcoming extension project. His advice was prompt, detailed and always impartial. Very grateful for your input, thanks Nick!
Amanda BurtonAmanda Burton
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Brilliant website and an excellent service. Nick provided not only detailed advice and supplier contacts, but highlighted the considerations of various products so I could make an informed choice. Our Sunvista minimal sliders were fitted this week and I couldn't be happier, stunning. Thanks once again for your advice and recommendations, invaluable!
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Nick has been very helpful on signposting me to a number of partner organisations for steel/aluminium doors.
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17:26 31 Aug 22
My experience with this firm was exceptionally good and this is notalways the case as a female, dipping a toe into technical waters.I was spoken too with courtesy and at a level that helped me consolidate what was needed .On top of that I was given a list of companies and places where I could obtain the type of product I needed.I could not thank them enough and would certainly go there again and reccommend others do too.
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