Persistent drafts and condensation from aluminium bifold doors – what am I missing?

[jc212]

Hi all,

I’m hoping for some advice as I’m really struggling to get to the bottom of an issue with two sets of aluminium bifold doors that were installed by the previous owners.

I’m getting:

A noticeable draft around the doors

Condensation on the bottom aluminium profiles

Condensation on the flooring directly in front of the doors


Things I’ve observed so far:

There appears to be a small gap under the sill/threshold

The drainage holes in the aluminium threshold look badly drilled / botched, not clean factory slots

There are visible gaps in the external gasket in places, which don’t seem to be sealing properly


Both sets of doors behave in exactly the same way, which makes me think this is an installation issue rather than a one-off defect.

To complicate matters, the previous owners installed the doors, and when I contacted the door supplier yesterday they told me they can’t offer any service or support, as they didn’t supply/install them for me.

At this point I’m a bit desperate to try and sort this, as the drafts and condensation are becoming a real problem.

What am I missing?
Is this likely to be:

Incorrect sill installation?

Missing/incorrect thermal break?

Poor sealing below the threshold?

Drainage done wrong and allowing cold air in?


Any pointers on what to check next or how this should have been installed correctly would be hugely appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Notch7]

I would start by finding out where the draughts are

Sometimes a naked flame be moved around slowly and will move where a draught hits it. Or an incense stick.


Have a look at the doors carefully and look for adjustment options - it maybe that the weather seal is not be pressurised and allowing draught through.

You might have to take off internal trims and see if the frame to brickwork was properly sealed with foam or silicone.


I doubt there’s much you can do about the condensation - aluminium is a metal and good conductor of heat so even thermally broken will be prone to condensation - if it’s an open room open to the kitchen make sure you use cooker hood