At Premier Door Co., we offer both single-panel hydraulic doors and strap-operated bifold doors—each engineered to meet different functional and architectural needs. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each can help you make the best choice for your hangar or large-opening application.
Single-Panel Hydraulic Hangar Doors
Sleek Operation. Full-Height Clearance.
Pros:
Full Vertical Clearance: The door opens as a single leaf, lifting outward from the top, providing the entire opening height—ideal for tall aircraft or equipment.
Weather Protection: Acts like an awning when open, providing shelter at the entryway from sun or rain.
Fewer Moving Parts: Simpler mechanics and fewer hinges reduce maintenance and wear over time.
Clean Architectural Look: A single solid panel integrates seamlessly into modern or industrial designs.
Cons:
Exterior Swing Space Required: The door requires clear space in front of the building to fully open, which may not be ideal in tight apron areas.
More Structural Load on Frame: Because the entire panel lifts as one unit, it places significant stress on the header and side columns—requiring a robust structural design.
Proven Reliability: Hydraulic systems are known for their durability and low-maintenance operation over decades of use.
Strap Bifold Hangar Doors
Durable. Efficient. Flexible Configuration.
Pros:
Minimal Exterior Clearance Needed: The door folds upward in two sections, staying close to the building—great for tight spaces.
Faster Open/Close Cycles: The strap lift system can raise the door quickly and smoothly.
Efficient Wind Load Distribution: The bifold design spreads loads more evenly across the frame.
Proven Reliability: Strap systems are known for their durability and low-maintenance operation over decades of use.
Cons:
Reduced Vertical Clearance: The bifold configuration typically results in a small loss of clear opening height due to the folded bottom panel.
More Moving Parts: Additional hinges and straps may require periodic inspection or tension adjustments.
Aesthetic Considerations: Some designs prefer the clean look of a single solid panel over the segmented appearance of a bifold.
Which Door is Right for You?
The right choice depends on your specific project needs:
Choose a single-panel hydraulic door for maximum opening height, modern aesthetics, and simplified mechanics.
Opt for a strap bifold door if you have space constraints in front of the building or prefer the mechanics of the strap door and are opposed to hydraulics.
Both options are available with full automation, integrated safety systems, and insulated panels to match your architectural design.
