A bi-fold gate is made up of two or more panels connected by hinges. When opened, the panels fold against each other in a concertina motion rather than swinging out as one solid leaf. This means the gate takes up significantly less space in front of or behind the opening compared to a standard swing gate of the same width.

The space required depends on the number of panels and the overall opening width, but as a general guide a folding gate uses roughly a third to a half of the depth that a traditional swing gate would need. We discuss your site layout with you before production to confirm the folded stack depth for your specific configuration.

Most bi-fold gate installations use either a bottom track or a ground guide roller to keep the folding panels aligned as they move. The exact requirement depends on the gate height, weight and number of panels. We will confirm the recommended system for your design when we review your opening.

The number of panels is determined by your opening width and the space available either side. Common configurations use two panels per side, but wider openings may require three or more panels per side to keep the folded stack manageable. We will advise on the most practical panel count for your measurements.

Yes. Bi-fold gates can be automated using electric motor kits designed for folding gate operation. Automation can be specified at the point of order or retrofitted later. Because the panels fold rather than swing, the motor and operating system need to be matched to the folding action, so contact us to discuss the right kit for your gate.

Yes, bi-fold gates are often chosen specifically for wider openings where a single or double swing gate would be impractical. By dividing the opening across multiple folding panels, the gate remains manageable in operation and reduces the clearance needed in front of the driveway.

We manufacture bi-fold gates in steel, aluminium, or a metal frame with composite infill panels. Steel offers high strength at a lower cost, aluminium is lighter and naturally corrosion-resistant, and a metal frame with composite panels combines structural rigidity with a wood-look finish that requires less upkeep.

Yes. The folding direction can be arranged to suit your site, with panels stacking to either side of the opening. We confirm the handing and fold direction with you at the drawing approval stage before production begins.

Yes. Folding gates use specialist hinges between the panels in addition to the hinges or pivot points at the posts. These panel-to-panel hinges carry the load of the folding sections and need to be specified correctly for the panel weight and size. All necessary hardware is supplied with the gate.

We take exact measurements and discuss tolerances with each customer before production. For bi-fold gates, this includes not only the opening width and height but also the available space to each side for the folded stack, the fall or slope of the ground, and the position of any existing posts or piers.