If you have bi-fold doors installed in your home, you are obviously enjoying a wide view and cool breeze. This is the primary reason most Melbourne homeowners prefer them. But the problem comes when they undermine the regular maintenance of their doors. Like any other appliance or household item, a bi-fold door needs regular upkeep so that it remains operational and efficient. Ignoring unreached debris or dust can lead to a costly mistake.
In this blog, we will give you effective maintenance tips that can help to save your bi-fold doors from wear & tear and avoid costly repairs. Here, we are concluding our 40 years of aluminium door maintenance knowledge in a simple guide that can increase the lifespan of your door and make it efficient.
1. Clean the Tracks Regularly
Dust and debris are your door’s worst enemies. One of the most common reasons aluminium bi-fold doors stick or drag is dirty tracks. When debris builds up, the rollers struggle to glide smoothly, leading to frustrating operation and eventual damage. How to clean it- Vacuum the bottom tracks weekly
- Wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent
- Avoid harsh chemicals or sharp tools
2. Lubricate Moving Parts with Care
Not all lubricants are created equal.
Your aluminium bi-fold door system includes rollers, hinges, and pivots – all of which need occasional lubrication. But using the wrong product (like grease or oil) can attract dirt and clog the mechanisms.
Use a silicone-based spray every 3 to 4 months for
- Smooth gliding
- Rust prevention
- Reduced squeaking
View our range of quality aluminium bi-fold doors, which require minimal upkeep and have a long lifespan.
3. Inspect Locks and Handles
Security and function go hand in hand.
Whether you’ve installed bi-fold or pivot doors in Melbourne, their locks and handles face daily use. Over time, screws can loosen, and internal parts may wear out.
What to check
- Loose handles or stiff movement
- Misaligned locking bolts
- Door seals around locking areas
Accent Windows uses premium hardware across all our doors in Melbourne, but routine checks can help you catch small issues early before they affect security or usability.
4. Check for Panel Alignment
Misalignment can be subtle – but costly.
Bi-fold doors rely on perfect alignment for smooth operation. Shifting foundations, temperature changes, or frequent use may cause panels to fall out of line over time.
Watch for
- Doors that don’t fold evenly
- Gaps between panels
- Difficulty closing or locking
Pro Tip: If you’re noticing persistent alignment issues, it may be time to get a professional adjustment (especially before Melbourne’s wetter months hit.)
5. Don’t Neglect the Glass
Want a crystal clear view? Make sure you clean the glass of your bi-fold doors regularly. A clean glass panel not only makes your home look good but also maintains the quality of your door. Water spots or staining hurt the glass quality and reduce its life.
Things to remember while cleaning
- Use a microfibre cloth and glass-safe cleaner
- Avoid abrasive pads
- Clean both inside and out at least once a month
This also helps you inspect for cracks or seal failures early on.
6. Protect Against Melbourne Weather
From summer sun to winter winds – your doors face it all.
Aluminium is incredibly durable, but harsh Melbourne weather can still cause wear over time. UV rays, moisture, and salt (in coastal areas) can affect seals and powder coating if ignored.
Seasonal checklist
- Reapply silicone seals if cracked or missing
- Check external frames for signs of fading
- Hose down salt spray if you live near the coast
At Accent Windows, we use high-performance finishes made to handle Melbourne’s climate, but a little seasonal care goes a long way.
Meet our aluminium windows and doors experts and find a solution that suits the weather conditions of your region.
7. When to Call a Professional
Some issues need a trained eye.
Even after cleaning and giving DIY maintenance, your bi-fold door is not working; you need to call a professional. They have years of experience and advanced tools to give quick repair to your door and peace of mind to you.
Common signs to call in an expert
- Damaged rollers or tracks
- Panels not closing properly
- Locking system failure
- Persistent leaks or drafts
Accent Windows offers servicing and support for all our aluminium doors, so your investment continues to perform, year after year.
8. Conclusion
Maintaining your doors doesn’t need to be complex. With a few minutes each month and help from trusted experts like Accent Windows, your doors will continue to perform beautifully – no matter the season.
From design to manufacturing to installation, Accent Windows handles it all in-house, ensuring every aluminium bi-fold door meets the highest Australian standards. Talk with our local experts today and get a free quote for aluminium bi-fold doors in Melbourne.
