Designing a Custom Pass-Through Window
Outdoor seating can be a major draw for restaurants, but having a functional service window is just as important. A burger joint owner reached out to PINKYS to design a custom pass-through window that could open partially for quick service or fully for a more open-air dining experience. PINKYS recommended a bi-fold window to accommodate these needs.
Business Owner: I want a pass-through window for my outdoor seating area. I’d like it to open a small section for taking orders, but also be able to open fully when it’s busy. Is that possible?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: Absolutely! A bi-fold window is perfect for that. Each panel folds neatly, so you can open just a portion or fully extend it to create a wide, open-air space.
Business Owner: How many panels would I need for a typical 6-foot opening?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: For a 6-foot-wide opening, we’d usually recommend three 2-foot panels. That gives you flexibility to open just one panel for orders or all three for a completely open serving window.
Business Owner: Can these windows be made to match my existing building style?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: Yes, we can customize the frame and panel layout to fit your exterior. The panels can be painted to match your building’s color, and you can choose how much glass versus solid panel you want.
Business Owner: How easy is it to operate the panels? I don’t want staff struggling during a busy lunch rush.
PINKYS Sales Specialist: They’re very smooth to operate. The panels fold and slide along a track system, and with proper hinges, they lock securely when open. Staff can easily open or close the sections in seconds.
Business Owner: Can the panels stay partially open without having to hold them?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: Yes. The hardware allows the panels to lock at various positions, so you can have it open just a small section or fully extended, depending on your needs.
Business Owner: How durable is this for outdoor use? It’s going to be exposed to sun, rain, and wind.
PINKYS Sales Specialist: We use painted steel frames that are very durable outdoors. Regular cleaning and inspection will keep them looking and operating like new.
Business Owner: Will the panels stay secure if it’s windy when partially open?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: Yes. The locking hardware keeps each panel stable, even in moderate wind, so you don’t have to worry about accidental movement.
Business Owner: Do you offer any maintenance advice?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: Keep the track clean and free of debris, and wipe down the frames regularly. This ensures smooth operation and long life for the hardware.
Business Owner: How long does it take to get something like this built?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: Custom bi-fold windows typically take a few months, depending on size and options. Once your order is accepted and ready for production, we’ll provide an accurate lead time.
Business Owner: Can I use this window for food service safely?
PINKYS Sales Specialist: Yes, our windows are fully compatible with food-service use. The panels open wide for ventilation and allow staff to interact with customers easily while keeping the design safe and functional.
Recap
- A bi-fold window provides flexibility—open partially for small service or fully for open-air dining.
- Panels fold neatly and can be sized to your opening, typically three panels for a 6-foot-wide space.
- Frames can be painted to match your building exterior.
- Smooth hardware ensures quick and easy operation during busy service hours.
- Panels can lock in multiple positions for convenience and security.
- Painted steel frames are durable for outdoor use with minimal maintenance.
- Proper cleaning and debris-free tracks prolong the life of your window.
- Panels remain secure in moderate wind when partially or fully open.
- Lead times vary, but an accurate schedule is provided once the order is ready for production.
A bi-fold pass-through window is a versatile solution that keeps your staff efficient and your customers happy while enhancing your outdoor dining experience.
