Bi-Fold Doors in Desert Climates: Why Gasket Type Matters

When specifying bi-fold doors for luxury residential projects in the UAE, the conversation usually centers on panel size and sightlines. However, there is a technical detail that has a far greater impact on long-term performance in desert climates: the sealing system. Specifically, the choice between compression gaskets and brush seals determines how a project handles extreme heat, fine sand ingress, and violent seasonal rainfall.

2/17/20262 min read

How Bi-Fold Doors Actually Seal

Every bi-fold system must allow panels to move freely while providing a weathertight seal when closed.

Brush Seals: Use fine bristles to create a barrier. While cost-effective, they naturally have gaps between the bristles, making them "leaky" under pressure.
Compression Gaskets: Use EPDM rubber profiles that compress when the door is locked, creating a continuous, airtight seal. This requires the precision engineering found in Cortizo systems to ensure uniform pressure.

The Desert Climate Challenge

In the UAE, the difference between these two approaches isn't just a matter of performance—it’s a matter of longevity.

Specification Comparison

Performance Factor

Brush Seal Systems

Cortizo Compression Gaskets

Watertightness

Class E750+

Class 5A–7A

Acoustic Insulation

Sand Resistance

Glazing Capacity

28–34 dB

Up to 46 dB

15+ year performance

Up to 45mm (COR Bifold Plus)

Degrades in 2–3 years

24–32mm

The Cost of "Budget" Sealing

The upfront savings of a brush-seal system are quickly erased by the Total Cost of Ownership. In the UAE, brush seals typically require replacement within 3 years. The labor cost of realigning large-format panels often exceeds the original price difference.

Furthermore, there is the reputational cost. For a villa in Emirates Hills or the Palm Jumeirah, sand ingress eighteen months after handover is a failure that reflects on the entire project team.

Key Takeaway: Always ask for the tested watertightness rating of the complete system, and verify if the gasket material is EPDM-rated for UV and thermal resistance.

London Architectural Aluminium fabricates and installs the complete Cortizo range for luxury residential and commercial projects across the UAE. For technical consultations or specification support, contact our team.

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London Architectural Aluminium fabricates and installs the complete Cortizo range for luxury residential and commercial projects across the UAE.

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