Bi-fold doors have become a popular choice in modern home design due to their unique blend of practicality and style. Architect Jeff Hines exemplifies their transformative potential through his work on an early 1900s Mediterranean-style home. Hines remodeled this historic home by incorporating custom bi-fold doors to open up the narrow kitchen.

The Vision 

Hines’ vision preserved the home’s historical integrity while enhancing its flow with modern bi-fold doors. Crafted from Accoya wood, these doors feature a striking contrast: white on the inside to match the kitchen and a custom turquoise on the outside to complement the historic fenestration. When stacked neatly to the side, the doors connect the interior with the exterior spaces.

Bi-fold doors offer a unique blend of practicality and style, making them an ideal choice for modern home design. As Jeff Hines explains, “It was a combination of thoughts, providing a solution that opened up the kitchen to the back garden and complemented the existing exterior design. We also appreciated the custom opportunities with AG Millworks.”

Enhancing Accessibility and Flow

 "I wanted to ensure the new space complemented the existing home without feeling too modern," Hines explained. "Growing up in Hawaii and Southern California, I’ve always appreciated the seamless blend of interior and exterior spaces. I also love natural light and windows or doors that extend from floor to ceiling", J.H.

When asked about the kitchen flow, architect Jeff Hines knew precisely how the bi-folds would influence traffic in the small kitchen. He explains, "I pulled the cabinets away from the exterior wall and created an island to allow for full-height windows and doors. I also like to study the view into the kitchen from various vantage points—outside, sitting at the island, and sitting in the dining room. With these views in mind, we hid most of the large appliances behind cabinet doors. I also prefer access and multiple paths into and around a kitchen, which supported the island and folding door concepts," says Jeff Hines.

Overcoming Structural Challenges

Every remodeling project comes with its own set of challenges. For Hines, the biggest challenge was the structural scope. "The existing kitchen had columns approximately 2 feet in from the exterior wall that supported the second story. Our vision required removing and relocating these columns, which involved installing new steel beams, footings, and columns. This allowed us to create a cleaner, rectangular space for the design," Hines noted.

Innovative Design Features

Bi-fold doors are known for their accordion-style bellows, which allow them to stack neatly to the side. This innovative system makes these doors both practical and stylish, especially for homes that lack the structural integrity for fully pocketed doors. As Hines described, bi-fold doors "provide a solution that opens up the kitchen to the back garden and complements the existing exterior design."

As shown in Hines' project, adding Simulated Divided Lites (SDLs) to the bi-folds helped integrate them seamlessly with the home's existing fenestration, maintaining the historical integrity of the structure while introducing modern functionality.

The inclusion of a "man door" in the bi-fold system adds another layer of convenience. This door swings on hinges, allowing for easy entry and exit without the need to open the entire bi-fold, making it ideal for day-to-day use. Additionally, a second handle towards the center of the door helps push the panel out to accordion and slide to the center, providing easier usage.

In conclusion, Hines considered other options but found that custom bi-fold doors were best suited to integrate with the home’s historical fenestration. He noted, “Having custom options made it much easier to design the folding doors that would complement the existing adjacent doors and windows and meet the historical review requirements. The folding doors at first glance appear similar to the existing doors in the dining room; not until they are opened do guests realize they are bi-folding. It makes for a nice surprise.” This project showcases how bi-fold doors can transform small rooms into expansive spaces while maintaining a home’s historical charm. Explore the benefits of bi-fold doors and discover how they can elevate your living space to new heights.

Designer:  Jeff Hines, Cyril Group Design

Pivot doors, the epitome of contemporary design, are revolutionizing the way we perceive entry doors. Unlike traditional hinged doors, pivot entry doors bring a fresh, sophisticated look to your living space. In this blog post, we delve into the unique features and customization options that make pivot doors the ideal choice for those looking to elevate their home’s aesthetic.

• The Contemporary Advantage: Pivot doors rotate on a pivot point, providing a distinctive and modern look. Unlike standard doors that swing from traditional hinges, this design enhances your home's visual appeal and adds a unique touch. The contemporary design highlights the seamless integration of expert craftsmanship and exquisite detailing in every door.

• Customization for Your Unique Aesthetic:  Tailor your door to match your home’s unique aesthetic with options like clad finishes, a choice of five standard colors, and the possibility of custom color selection. Choose from an array of 18 wood species with pre-finished options available to suit your preferences. Our pivot doors feature top-of-the-line hardware, including the FritsJurgens System One Free Swing, M+32 Self-Closing, and Dorma LM Series Free Swing with a Magnet-Catch from Ghostop in black stainless steel.

Notable Customization Options for Pivot Doors

Elegant Hardware:
The thumb turn and backplates in black satin nickel add a refined touch to the overall design.

The FritsJurgens M+32 self-closing System offers precision engineering for any size pivot door, allowing for a smooth, controlled closure with fully adjustable speed and latching options. Its hidden mechanism ensures a seamless, modern aesthetic without sacrificing functionality, providing an effortless user experience while enhancing the door’s sleek design. Perfect for both residential and commercial spaces.

The FritsJurgens System One features a free-swing pivot door system that allows for effortless, smooth motion without a hold or close position. This versatile system is ideal for creating fluid transitions between spaces while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic. Fully concealed within the door, System One provides maximum design flexibility, supporting doors of various sizes and materials while ensuring a seamless appearance with no visible hardware.

The Dorma LM Series Free Swing System delivers exceptional ease of use with its smooth, unobstructed swing function. Designed for both elegance and performance, this system allows doors to open effortlessly in both directions while remaining seamlessly integrated into the door frame. Ideal for high-traffic areas, the Dorma LM Series combines durability with a sleek, modern look, ensuring reliable operation and enhanced user comfort.

The Ghostop Magnet Catch enhances the functionality of free swing hardware by providing a discreet and effective solution for door hold. When integrated with free swing systems, it allows the door to remain in an open position without drifting, thanks to the magnetic hold. This feature ensures that the door stays in place when opened and closes softly and securely when released. The Ghostop Magnet Catch is ideal for maintaining a clean, unobtrusive look while offering practical benefits in high-traffic or frequently used areas.

Elevate your home’s aesthetic with pivot entry doors that redefine contemporary design. With customizable features, high-quality hardware, and versatile style options, each pivot door is truly a work of art. Make a statement with a door that captivates and leaves a lasting impression on all who enter.  Learn more.

What is a Thermal Break? 

Imagine your door frame acting like a highway for heat. When it's hot outside, the heat zooms right through the metal into your cool interior, and vice versa. A thermal break is like a roadblock on that highway. It’s a barrier of low thermal conductivity material inserted between the door's aluminum metal components. This clever design slows down the heat transfer, keeping your indoor temperature stable.

Thermal breaks prove highly effective in AG Millworks Bi-fold and Multi-Sliding systems, particularly when there's a notable temperature contrast between indoors and outdoors. These breaks play a crucial role in reducing the U-factor,  to meet Title 24 prescriptive compliance.

Why Should You Care About Thermal Breaks?

1. Saving Heat

Heat tends to escape through doors, especially if they’re made of aluminum metal. Aluminum, being a great conductor, lets heat travel quickly. Without a thermal break, your door could be letting out (or letting in) more heat than you'd like. By inserting a thermal break, you significantly cut down this heat loss, making your building more energy-efficient.

2. Preventing Condensation

Have you ever noticed frost or condensation on the inside of your door during winter? That’s because the cold outside seeps through the aluminum, making the inside surface cold too. When warm indoor air hits this cold surface, it cools down and releases moisture, leading to condensation. Over time, this moisture can cause water damage. Thermal breaks help prevent this by keeping the inside surface of the door closer to the indoor temperature.

The Big Benefits

Using doors with thermal breaks comes with a bunch of perks:

• Energy Savings: Thermal breaks can reduce heat loss by up to 50%, meaning you spend less on heating and cooling.
• Comfort: They help maintain a more consistent indoor temperature, making your space more comfortable.
• Environmental Impact: Less energy used means a smaller carbon footprint.
• Durability: Preventing condensation reduces the risk of water damage and extends the life of your door and its surrounding areas.

Thermal breaks are not just a technical detail; they are a significant upgrade to your building's overall performance. By opting for thermally broken doors, you’re making a smart investment in energy efficiency, comfort, and long-term savings.

For those who find moving large doors challenging due to medical reasons, AG Millworks ensures accessibility for everyone. Our solutions cater to individuals with limited mobility, making door operation effortless. In this blog, we'll introduce the Lift and Slide handle, designed for multi-sliding door units. This innovative hardware moves even the largest doors with a gentle touch. We also offer automated sliding doors that open and close at the push of a button, thanks to a built-in mechanism. Additionally, our ADA Sill and Stainless Steele Recessed Track is designed with a narrow profile to accommodate wheelchair users, preventing them from getting stuck. Let's explore the benefits of these features and how they enhance accessibility and convenience.

Lift & Slide Handle Set

At AG Millworks, we consider accessibility and inclusivity, which is why our Rocky Mountain Hardware handle set for Lift & Slide Doors is designed to assist individuals with mobility challenges. Combining functionality with aesthetic appeal, these handles feature a sleek, flush pull design that allows for easy grip without protruding from the door surface, ensuring a seamless and streamlined look. Engineered for smooth operation, they facilitate effortless gliding of large panel doors, providing convenience and accessibility to all. Crafted from durable bronze, they not only enhance security and longevity, but also offer peace of mind for both residential and commercial applications. With a simple nudge of a finger, this innovative handle set can move entire walls. 

Automation by Summit

Operate Your Multi-Slide Patio Door System with a Click of a Button

AG Millworks and Summit Automation have partnered to provide a reliable automation solution for multi-slide patio door systems, ensuring seamless and quiet operation. AG Millworks manages the essential millwork preparation, while Summit Automation supplies the motor, equipment, device installation, and comprehensive support. Discover this innovative technology designed with accessibility in mind.

Understanding the needs of individuals with disabilities, medical issues, and mobility challenges, this automated door solution is perfect for both smart-home constructions and existing setups. Experience the benefits of this inclusive upgrade:

• Enjoy a touch of sophistication and luxury.
• Effortlessly open and close large sliding glass patio doors.
• Easily control with a simple button press.
• Enhance safety and security measures.
• Add convenience and enjoyment to your life.

Stainless Steel Recessed Track (designed for Multi-Slide Door Units)

The AG Millworks recessed track system for Multi-Slide doors, crafted from premium heavy-gauge stainless steel, offers an excellent solution for individuals using wheelchairs or mobility devices. This customized configuration ensures durability and smooth operation, enhancing accessibility for those with mobility challenges.

ADA Ultra Guide (for Bi-fold & French Swing Systems) 

• Similar to the Ultra Guide Sill but with a narrower design to prevent wheelchairs from getting stuck in the sill channels 
• Features a 1/2" narrow opening that complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

At AG Millworks, we prioritize accessibility and innovation, ensuring everyone can enjoy our doors. The Lift and Slide handle, automated sliding doors, and ADA Sill exemplify our commitment to inclusivity and convenience. These features make daily living more comfortable and enjoyable. Discover how our solutions enhance your home with effortless operation and elegance. Stay tuned for more insights on our dedication to accessibility and quality.

AG Millworks Glass Doors

AG Millworks has been committed to providing exceptional glass for our large patio glass doors since 1986. With decades of innovation and continuous evolution in the art of glass design, you are sure to find more than what you expect. Let's start with the composition of our glass. Argon gas is used between glass lites to ensure insulation, helping your door meet Title 24 Prescriptive Compliance and energy efficiency standards as certified by the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council). Our various glass options include clear, tinted, laminated, and etched. Now, let's explore stylish customization to elevate your door's aesthetics.

Glass Stop Choices:

Glass stops not only secure the glass pane in place but also provide a sleek, finished look while enhancing the door's insulation and protection. Here are our 3 Glass stop options. Choosing the right stop depends on your existing architectural style.

Bevel

Square

Ovolo

Lite Options:

AG Millworks offers lite options tailored to your design needs, whether you prefer TDL True Divided Lite, SDL Simulated Divided Lite, or Intermediate Rails. Lites are ideal for homes with traditional elements, providing a beautiful way to blend modern doors with timeless aesthetics, maintaining your home's stylistic integrity. SDL simplifies the division of a large glass lite without the need for individual cutouts, offering a contemporary take on the sought-after "cottage" look. Intermediate Rail is particularly suited for creating striking aesthetics on Pivot Doors.

Expanding Your Custom Folding Glass Doors

Fixed Side Lite

Max Width & Height 96” x 120”

Fixed side lites consist of glass panels positioned alongside a main door, serving as decorative elements rather than functional openings. They enhance the appearance of the door unit, providing a more spacious and inviting ambiance. 

Transoms

Bifold Glass Door, Sliding Glass Door, and French Door Combination

Our innovative transoms are handcrafted to match your folding glass door system without the risk of deflection. We can also build transoms to match the ones already in your home.

AG Mllworks makes crafting your ideal door a breeze. Discover broad possibilities and enhance your dream entryway today. In our upcoming blog, we'll delve into the mechanical hardware options available.

AG Millworks Sill Options

Selecting the appropriate mechanisms for your door can feel overwhelming. In this blog, we'll explore the technical complexities behind crafting an ideal door. Let's start by dissecting the frame, which comprises the head jamb, leg jamb, and the essential sill. At AG Millworks, we understand the individuality of each home and the necessity for tailored sill options to address specific requirements. 

Bifold Sills

ShootBolt Channel guide:

• Promotes long-lasting operation
• Two pins lock the bi-fold panels in place and operate with a handle. Pins lock into the sill and top of the doorframe to secure the door firmly; enhancing security.

Unique Winged Design:

• Elevates the visual look of the track for a more forgiving aesthetic designers love
• Creates a smooth transition 
• Protects the weather strip from cement 
• 1 1/2" track opening

Available in ADA Ultra Guide

• Similar to the Ultra Guide Sill but with a narrower design to prevent wheelchairs from getting stuck in the sill channels 
• Features a 1/2" narrow opening that complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Multi-Slide Sills

SILLution Sliding Door Threshold

Our Sliding Door System comes standard with our SILLution threshold made from heavy-duty extruded aluminum, providing a flat and smooth surface so doors slide with ease.

Stainless Steel Recessed Track

The AG Millworks recessed track system for Multi-Slide Doors is made of premium quality heavy-gauge stainless steel welded into a customized configuration.

AG Millworks makes crafting your ideal door a breeze. Discover broad possibilities and enhance your dream entryway today. In our upcoming blog, we'll delve into door handles.

Personalizing your AG Millworks Patio Door is simple. Locate a nearby dealer and inquire about the ease of ordering and customizing using our innovative Configurator System. Customizing your door is just a click away, with a wide array of options to match different style preferences. Each made-to-order unit is pre-built, inspected, and fully assembled in-house, simplifying the installation process and conserving your valuable time and money.

Stile Options

Personalize the look of your door with three stile options: each offers a unique aesthetic.

Slimline 2-1/2"         

Euro 3-7/16"     

Traditional 4-3/4"

Material Options:

Clad, aluminum on the exterior and wood on the interior for a sleek, modern aesthetic, ideal for trend-conscious individuals. With 18 wood species, Clad is especially suitable for those who frequently change interior paint colors. All clad door systems have LVL cores for dimensional stability and 3/16" thick veneer skins. We recommend Basswood, known for its refined smooth texture for an exceptional paint finish. The paint used on AG Millworks' doors is AMMA Certified #2605 (500, 70% Kynar), ensuring long-lasting durability and beauty. Additionally, all AG Millworks Clad products include a 10-year limited warranty. All-Wood Options are available. 

AG Millworks makes crafting your ideal door a breeze. Discover limitless possibilities and enhance your dream entryway today. In our upcoming blog, we'll delve into sill options.

So, you've decided it's time to upgrade your patio doors. But, with so many options out there, how do you know which one is right for you? At AG Millworks, we offer a variety of door types to suit every architectural style and functional need. Let's explore each type and see how it fits into different spaces.

Bi-Fold Doors and Windows:

• Ideal for modern homes with clean lines and contemporary architectural styles.
• Bi-folds offer a geometric look that adds architectural allure.
• Perfect for illuminating expansive rooms with natural light- this style is optimal for a resort-inspired lifestyle.
• An excellent alternative when a pocketed sliding door isn't feasible due to space constraints. These bi-fold doors stack to the side, providing a picturesque frame for your home's natural view.

Multi-Slide Patio Doors

• A versatile option, suitable for most existing architecture, including Contemporary and Historic Homes.
• Available in pocketed and non-pocketed configurations.
• Non-pocketed sliding patio doors are perfect when structural integrity is a concern.
• Elevate your door experience with the futuristic appeal of electronic patio door automation, ensuring seamless, quiet operation with the press of a button.
• Ideal option when square footage is limited.

Lift & Slide Doors:

• Luxury meets innovation with hardware that allows effortless movement of large doors with this easy-of-a-handle set.
• Demonstrate the doors' smooth operation to friends, creating an impression of richness and sophistication. 
• Ideal for individuals with a limited range of motion.
• Perfect for large, expansive doors for a weightless experience. 

French Swing Doors:

• Timeless aesthetics that add character to any space.
• Complement any existing door style with a daily-use French Swing Door - combining convenience with a stylish accentuation.
• Perfect for smaller walls lacking structural integrity for large expansive doors.
• Can be customized to larger scales, creating an impressive visual connection between indoor
• and outdoor spaces.

Pivot Doors:

• Perfect for individuals in search of a modern alternative to a traditional entry door, these doors open at a unique pivot point, creating a striking first impression for your home.
• Perfect for people who strive for innovative craftsmanship, this door system features a magnet catch to keep the door secure while open. 
• Customizable to fit most architectural aesthetics, adding a touch of elegance to your home's entrance.
• These stunning doors have self-closing options, perfect for people seeking an effortless experience. 

In our next blog post, we'll dive into the extensive customization options available for AG Millworks Doors, ensuring your doors become the centerpiece of your home's aesthetic. Stay tuned for an exploration of how our doors can transform your living space into something truly extraordinary.

Hey there, homeowner! Ever struggled with stubborn windows that just won't budge or doors that creak like they're straight out of a horror movie? If you're nodding along, you're not alone. But fear not – there's a solution! Here are seven compelling reasons why it's time to bid farewell to those old windows and doors and welcome in some fresh new ones:

1. Hard to Open or Close: Wrestling with windows and doors that seem to have a mind of their own is no fun. It's like a daily arm workout you never signed up for, plus it can be a safety hazard in emergencies. Say goodbye to the struggle and hello to smooth sailing with new, easy-to-operate windows and doors. Think about opting for a Lift and Sliding door from AG Millworks. Our user-friendly Multi-Sliding Doors or windows enable you to effortlessly elevate the doors with a straightforward handle movement. The mechanism takes care of the heavy lifting, making it a breeze to slide the door with just a gentle push of a finger. 

2. Drafty: Feeling a breeze indoors when it's not welcome? Drafty windows and doors are like having a built-in air conditioner – but not the good kind. They not only make you chilly in winter but also send your energy bills skyrocketing as you crank up the heat to stay warm. Time to seal those gaps and say goodbye to unwanted drafts. AG Millworks offers Title 24 Prescriptive Compliant solutions, ensuring energy efficiency and savings for your home all year round.

 3. Let Environmental Noises In: Tired of hearing every car honk and neighbor's conversation from the comfort of your living room? Upgrading to AG Millworks doors not only keeps the noise out but also enhances your peace and quiet indoors. It's like your own little oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.

 4. Lacks Curb Appeal: They say you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but let's be real – first impressions matter. Outdated windows and doors can make your home look neglected or outdated, which isn't the vibe you're going for. AG Millworks offers doors that not only look sleek and modern but also instantly elevate your home's curb appeal. Contemplate adding a French door system to your home; its timeless aesthetic complements any style of home. You have the choice between a timeless all-wood look or an aluminum exterior paired with a wood interior, which we call Clad. Clad provides a selection of 5 standard colors and customizable options for both the exterior and interior. For the interior, consider PG basswood for a smooth surface ideal for painting. Its versatility allows you to easily update its color as trends evolve. Plus, it comes with a 10-year warranty for added peace of mind.

5. Not Secure: Security is non-negotiable when it comes to your home. Old, flimsy doors might as well have a "welcome intruders" sign on them. But fear not – AG Millworks doors come equipped with multi-point locks, giving you peace of mind knowing your home is safe and secure. Consider a Pivot Door System featuring its multi-point hardware, complete with a roller latch and magnet catch mechanism.

6. Foggy Windows: If your windows look like they're covered in a permanent layer of mist, it could be a sign of seal failure. Time to swap them out for new ones and enjoy crystal-clear views without the haze. An excellent choice is the AG Millworks pocketed sliding window, ideal for every window. It's user-friendly and perfect for seamlessly connecting your interiors to the patio.

7. Better Views and Natural Light: Who doesn't love a good view? Whether you're dreaming of a picturesque patio door or craving more natural light in your space, updating your windows and doors can make it happen. Say hello to brighter, more beautiful living spaces. Explore the option of incorporating a Bi-fold window and door combination, which allows you to seamlessly extend your kitchen space and create an expansive opening, perfect for hosting memorable gatherings and fabulous parties.

In summary, the decision to upgrade your windows and doors extends beyond mere aesthetics; it encompasses enhancing comfort, energy efficiency, security, and overall well-being. With AG Millworks' cutting-edge solutions,   you have the opportunity to elevate your home into a sanctuary of both comfort and style. Bid farewell to drafty spaces, soaring energy bills, and security concerns, and welcome a home that exudes warmth and charm. AG   Millworks provides an array of options including Pivot doors, Multi-Sliding door systems, French Swing door systems, and Bi-Fold door systems. For further details on our products, please explore our "find a dealer" tab on our website.

Exploring the Elegance: French Swing Doors vs. Sliding Patio Doors 

In the realm of home design, the choice of doors can significantly impact both aesthetics and functionality. Among the various options available, French swing doors and sliding patio doors stand out as popular choices, each offering distinct advantages. Let's delve into the characteristics and benefits of each, helping you decide which suits your space best.

French Swing Doors: A Timeless Touch 

These are just a few configurations available for AG Millworks French Swing Patio Door Systems, if you don’t see what you need please contact your nearest dealer for consultation.

French swing doors exude a classic, timeless charm that can elevate the aesthetic appeal of any space. They serve as great accent pieces, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to both traditional and modern designs. Despite their traditional appeal, they seamlessly fit into most existing styling choices and architectural designs, offering versatility and flexibility. However, it's essential to consider that French swing doors open outwards or inwards, requiring adequate space for operation. This aspect might not be suitable for smaller areas or spaces with limited clearance. Additionally, screens are typically available only for outswing French doors, limiting options for insect protection.

Sliding Patio Doors: Expansive Views and Space Optimization

These are just a few configurations available for AG Millworks Sliding Patio Door systems, if you don’t see what you need please contact your nearest dealer for consultation.

In contrast, sliding patio doors offer a different set of advantages, particularly when it comes to expansive views and space optimization. These doors are ideal for those seeking to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, as they can span up to 8 feet wide per panel. By eliminating entire walls, sliding patio doors allow natural light to flood the interior while providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape. Furthermore, sliding patio doors come in numerous configurations, catering to various design preferences and spatial constraints. They take up less space compared to French swing doors, making them a preferred choice for areas where square footage is at a premium. However, it's worth noting that while pocketing sliding doors offer generous openings, configurations such as a stacking 2-door slider may leave only one side fully open, giving the stunning visual impact of French swing doors a higher consideration.

Considerations and Customization

When weighing your options, it's crucial to consider factors such as space availability, architectural style, and personal preferences. Both French swing doors and sliding patio doors are available in clad (aluminum outside and wood inside) and all-wood options, offering customizable colors to suit your design vision. Ultimately, whether you opt for the classic elegance of French swing doors or the expansive views of sliding patio doors, both choices promise to enhance the beauty and functionality of your living space. So, take your time to explore the possibilities and envision how each option can complement your home's unique character. After all, the right doors can make all the difference in creating a welcoming and visually stunning environment.