Traditional vs Bypass vs Bifold Doors | The Ultimate Guide

Doors are an essential part of home design—entry and exit ways that influence both functionality and aesthetics. There are three common types: bifold doors, bypass doors, and traditional swinging doors. Understanding each of their characteristics helps to make informed decisions when choosing doors.

The basic differences

Bifold doors

Consisting of hinged panels that fold and slide along a track, bifold doors collapse together to create a compact footprint. Because they fold neatly to the side, they do not intrude significantly into a room, making them an excellent space-efficient option for closets, laundry rooms, and pantries.

Bypass doors

Bypass doors slide past each other along a track and overlap when opened. In some cases, barn doors can be easily made into bypass doors with the use of specially-made hardware kits. Bypass vs bifold closet doors are better suited for wardrobes and large storage spaces where only one side needs to be accessed at a time. Their smooth gliding mechanism and space efficiency make them popular for modern interiors.

Traditional doors

Using traditional door hardware, this type of door swings open, operating on hinges that open inward or outward. As the most common door type, they are found in countless bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces. They do require more clearance but they’re still a timeless choice for many settings in the home. 

Bifold doors | A space-saving solution

Bifold doors are a practical choice for spaces with limited room, such as apartments. Their ability to fold rather than swing open allows them to fit in small rooms and tight spaces. Many homeowners opt for bifold barn doors in closets, pantries, and laundry areas.

Bifold doors also come in a variety of styles, including modern, farmhouse, and windowed options. Windowed bifold doors, for example, allow the light to pass through so can create the illusion of a larger space with an added degree of openness.

It’s worth noting that over time, tracks may accumulate dust and debris, causing difficulty in movement. That’s why bifold doors require regular maintenance, with tracks and hinges needing to be kept clean and lubricated to ensure smoothness. 

Bypass doors | Maximizing space with sliding panels

Bypass doors are another excellent space-saving option, commonly used for wardrobes and larger household storage areas. Unlike bifold doors, bypass doors slide past each other on a track, allowing access to one side at a time. Their design means they do not take up extra room when opened, making them ideal for confined spaces.

Bypass barn doors offer a unique combination of sleek modernity and the farmhouse aesthetic. Like bifold doors, bypass doors can incorporate glass panels, giving them a contemporary and stylish look. They can also be designed with wooden or mirrored finishes, adding a touch of extra sophistication.

While easy to use, bypass doors require proper installation to prevent misalignment, otherwise becoming clogged with dust and ultimately not sliding smoothly. Periodic maintenance, including track cleaning and realignment, helps to keep bypass doors in top condition. 

Traditional swinging doors | A limited classic

Delivering accessibility and full-width opening, traditional swinging doors are widely used in bedrooms, bathrooms, and entryways. They provide unrestricted access to the entire doorway, making them ideal for areas that require frequent and easy entry.

Despite their versatility, traditional doors do have some limitations. They require more clearance space for operation—not always ideal for compact rooms. Additionally, their hinges, knobs, and handles are prone to wear over time, meaning you might need to tighten loose hardware and lubricate hinges to extend their lifespan and ensure smooth operation. It’s also uncommon to find attractive traditional doors in the barn door style, meaning it’s harder to tap into that classic farmhouse aesthetic. Lastly, it’s worth considering who’s going to be using the doors, since children or those with limited mobility may struggle to turn knobs and operate handles.

Durability and maintenance considerations

Each door type has its own durability and maintenance requirements. 

• Bifold doors require regular track and hinge maintenance to prevent misalignment and ensure smooth folding. 

• Bypass doors are generally low-maintenance but can develop alignment issues if not installed correctly. 

• Traditional swinging doors are known for their durability, but their hinges and handles can wear out over time. 

Proper installation occasionally tightening hardware can prevent issues and keep all forms of doors functioning optimally. Securing longevity is a vital step to ensuring doors of any style are a worthwhile investment.

Cost considerations

As with anything, cost is an important factor when selecting a door type, and there’s a range of price points for doors in each category. 

• Bifold doors, even high-end varieties, are generally affordable, making them a budget-friendly choice for homeowners.

• Bypass doors fall into the mid-range price category, with premium options available for those seeking the classiest designs. 

• Traditional doors vary widely in cost depending on the material. Solid wood doors are generally more expensive, while hollow-core options provide an economical alternative. 

Homeowners should consider both initial costs and long-term maintenance when determining the best value for their needs.

Choosing the right door for your home

To conclude, each type of door has distinct benefits and drawbacks. Bifold doors are excellent for small areas but do require maintenance to keep them operating smoothly. Bypass doors provide a sleek, modern look with sliding functionality, though they may require alignment adjustments over time. Traditional swinging doors offer maximum accessibility but they’re a more limited choice than the other options described. Ultimately, selecting the right door depends on balancing functionality with style.

Explore our collection bifold, bypass, and other barn doors, along with a massive selection of hardware kits to find the perfect portals for your home! We also have a comprehensive blog that’s perfect for learning everything you need to know about barn doors and how they relate to interior design.