Barn Door FAQ's
We get asked a lot of questions about our sliding barn doors. Here are some of our frequently asked questions. If you have any other questions or need any help with our barn doors, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Company Questions
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What are Barn Doors?
Originally, barn doors were exterior sliding doors installed on barns but have evolved. Now, they are sliding doors that are installed both outside and inside of homes. Many people like the versatility and design style of interior barn doors. They save space and are used for everything from closets, to bathrooms, pantries, offices, bedrooms and other interior spaces. Barn doors come in a wide range of styles, and sizes.
Sliding barn doors consist of a door slab, a hanger that the door slab hangs from, rollers that are installed on the hangers, a track that the rollers slide right and left on, a door guide to prevent the door from moving backward and forward, a handle to make it easier to open and close the door, and a latch to lock the door in place.
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Where is BarnDoorz.com located? Do you make the doors and where do you ship from?
BarnDoorz.com is located in Houston, TX. We manufacture and ship our doors out of our Houston, TX warehouse. Doors are made to order, and all hardware products are stocked.
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What are your hours of operation?
Our customer service team is available to talk live with you Monday – Friday 8am – 4pm CST. You are able to purchase from our website 24/7 and may contact us at any time by email at info@barndoorz.com or by filling out our contact us page.
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Where can I buy barn doors?
We offer a wide variety of interior barn doors and you can buy them on our website. View all our barn doors for sale by clicking here.
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Do you have any exterior barn doors?
Unfortunately, we do not offer exterior doors. All of our barn doors and barn door hardware are produced for interior use only.
Order Questions
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What freight carrier do you use for your barn doors?
All doors are shipped FedEx freight and all liftgate charges are included. FedEx Freight only delivers curbside. Fully built doors arrive in a large box. Customers are responsible for transporting the door package from delivery truck to location. Please be prepared at the time of delivery.
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What does shipping cost?
All doors and hardware ship free within the continental United States. We can ship to Hawaii and Alaska, but the customer is responsible for the shipping charges. We also will ship to Canada and the customer is responsible for the shipping charges. If you are in Hawaii, Alaska or Canada and would like a door from us, please let us know and we can give you a quote!
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What is the lead time on your barn door hardware (kits and handles)?
All hardware is in stock and ready to ship the next business day via FedEx ground.
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What is the lead time on getting samples?
Our barn door wood samples ship out next business day via FedEx ground.
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Do you offer any discounts? Military discounts?
We do offer monthly discounts. Each month we offer a different percentage off of our products. We DO NOT offer military discounts. Please check our website regularly for monthly discounts. Coupon codes are offered to enter into your cart at checkout to receive the monthly discount.
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Do you have quick ship and ready to ship doors and hardware?
Yes! We have a quick ship door kit that offers all you need for installation. The kit comes with a knotty pine door and our slade hardware kit. These doors are ready to go and ship! Order and get your door shipped on the next business day. https://www.barndoorz.com/quick-ship-door-kit/
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What do I do if something is wrong/missing from my order?
Please notify us as soon as you can if something is wrong with your order. You are required to open and inspect your order and report any missing items or damages to BarnDoorz.com within 30 days of receiving your order. For all missing items we will reship the missing items to you. When contacting us about a damage claim please provide images of the damages or defect. For qualifying damaged returns, we will arrange the shipping of your damaged merchandise back to BarnDoorz.com and will re-issue a replacement order.
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How can I find the status of my order?
Once your order has been processed by our team, you will receive an email notification stating your order has gone into production. Production takes 10-15 business days. If you have any questions about your order between those days, you are more than welcome to reach out to our team about your order. Once your order has shipped, you will receive another email notifying you that your order has left our facility and is on its way to your home, or business. This email will provide a tracking number so you can track your shipment.
Door Questions
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How do you install a barn door?
Read our installation instructions by clicking here to learn how to install our barn doors in your home.
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How do I choose the width dimensions for my door?
It’s important to consider overlap with your door and the opening. We consider a standard of 2” overlap on each side of the door from the door opening width.
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How do you measure for a barn door? What size barn door do I need?
We typically recommend a 2" overlay on each side of your opening to act as a light, sound, and privacy barrier. This will make your door a total of 4" wider than the opening and 2" taller than the opening. You can also make the door just an inch taller if you are tight on clearance. Keep in mind that you will lift your door a 1/2" off the floor to allow it to roll. For a cased opening it is most popular and cosmetically appealing to make the door to cover all the casing. You will measure from outside of trim to trim for the width and from the floor to the top of the casing for the height. Our doors are built on the inch so round up to the nearest inch if the exact measurement is unavailable. For more information please check out our measurement guide.
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Do I need a header board?
Mounting your track to a header not only gives a more finished look but adds additional support to helping disperse the weight of the system and prevents crushing of the drywall on large or heavy door applications.
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Do you have any double barn doors?
For a double barn door installation, you will need two of our doors and two of our hardware kits. One door gets one hardware kit. The rails from each of the two kits meet in the center above your wall opening. All door product pages have the hardware options available. Our product pages are designed to "build your own door". You click the options you wish for your door and hardware. Once you have everything selected on the product page that you want, to create a double door unit you need to select the quantity as "2". By selecting 2 for the quantity you will receive two of everything which will make a double door unit.
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What is the weight rating on my hardware kit?
All of our hardware kits support doors up to 220 lbs. All of our barn doors weigh under 220lbs.
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How much clearance do I need for my hardware?
A minimum clearance of 6-1/2” is required from the top of the door to the ceiling to accommodate the track/rail and rolling hardware. The top of the door should be level or above the frame opening.
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What are the benefits of a barn door over traditional interior doors?
We do offer monthly discounts. Each month we offer a different percentage off of our products. We DO NOT offer military discounts. Please check our website regularly for monthly discounts. Coupon codes are offered to enter into your cart at checkout to receive the monthly discount.
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Do you prep the barn door for the hardware?
We do not prep the door for the hardware. Each barn door installation is different and we allow the customer to choose where they would like the hardware to be placed onto the door. We do however prep the door for our inset vista handle. If you order the vista handle for either the front or back of the door, we will rout the hole into the door for you.
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What does 2 panel on your doors mean (i.e. 2 Panel Chevron)?
The 2 panel refers to the design of the door and DOES NOT mean you are getting two doors. For example, the 2 Panel Chevron barn door design has the chevron design divided into two panels. If you are wanting two doors, you will need to select the quantity of the door as "2". By selecting 2 for the quantity you will receive two of everything which will make a double door unit.
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Do you carry Bypass hardware? If so, what all is needed for the installation?
Yes, we do carry bypass hardware! Our bypass hardware comes in a kit of 5 bypass brackets. For a Bypass Double door installation, you will need 2 doors, 2 rolling door hardware kits plus 1 bypass rail bracket kit. On our website you would build your door and hardware choices and select the quantity as “2”. By selecting 2 for the quantity you will receive two of everything which will make a double door unit. Then you would add the bypass bracket kit in your cart. That will give you everything you need for a bypass door installation.
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What comes in a hardware kit?
All of our hardware kits include two rollers, one pre-drilled rail, two stoppers, screws & nuts, two anti-jump disc, C floor glider and installation guide. Our hardware kits come with a choice of a 78-3/4” or 100” long rail. For the 78-3/4” we recommend using on doors up to 36” wide. For the 100” rail we recommend using on doors larger than 36” wide up to 48” wide. If you need a larger rail for a door larger than 48” wide, we offer the rails separate for purchase to extend the length of the rail.
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Do you only offer standard size doors?
We offer standard door sizes, but we can also custom size doors for special projects. If you do not see the size you need, feel free to contact us so we can double check we can produce the size you desire.
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Can I order finish samples if I am unsure about finish colors?
Yes, we do offer color samples for all of our finish options. Please see our finish samples page. Note we urge customers to order samples before ordering their door if time permits.
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Do you have any exclusive/ one-of-a-kind doors?
Yes, we do! OurAntique door collection offers one-of-a-kind mid to late 1800 French Colonial doors from Egypt. Each door is beautiful, unique and a one of a kind piece. We also offer a collection of Live Edge wood slabs that can be used as a unique barn door or a table top for your home!
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How do you make or build a barn door?
To make a barn door, you can follow these steps:
- Measure all the doorways, stairs, hallways that lead to the room you’re going to install the door. Then measure the width and height of the door opening where you will install your barn doors.
- Cut the wood to the desired dimensions using a circular or miter saw.
- Stick and secure these pieces together using wood glue and screws.
- Add any desired design elements, such as cross bars or diagonal braces, to the door. You can also paint or stain it to match your home decor.
- Install the barn door hardware, such as the track, rollers, and handle, following the manufacturer's instructions. Attach the door to the track and ensure it slides smoothly. Make any necessary adjustments as needed.
For more detailed instructions you may want to search for videos on Youtube.
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Are barn doors out of style?
Barn doors are still in style, and it's easy to see why:
- Practicality: Beyond their good looks, barn doors are pretty handy. Need to create a private space, divide a room, or hide a messy closet? A barn door has got you covered. Plus, their slide mechanism is a breeze to use.
- Space-Smart: Because they slide along the wall, barn doors save you precious floor space. For those with smaller homes or rooms, these doors are a real lifesaver.
- Rustic Charm: The simple yet charming look of barn doors is timeless. These doors, with their classic, adaptable design, look good in just about any setting - be it farmhouse-themed or a slick modern loft.
- Custom-Made: You get to call the shots with barn doors. There are tons of colors, materials, styles, and designs to choose from. You can make it fit your home down to a tee.
- Versatility: Barn doors aren't picky. They look good in homes, offices, restaurants - you name it. This adaptability is part of why they've stayed popular for so long.
- Style Statement: A barn door is more than just a door - it's a style statement. Installing one in your space isn't just practical; it's a way to add character and a visual point of interest.
In short, barn doors have a lot going for them. They're a blend of style, practicality, and versatility - the very reasons why so many people like them.
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How to lock sliding barn doors/how to lock barn doors?
Securing barn doors is a cinch with the right hardware and mechanisms. It all depends on the door's style and purpose. Check out some popular ways to lock barn doors:
- Simple Latch: Many barn doors come with a simple latch, like a sliding bolt or something more ornate. Just slide the bolt into the catch or bracket on the door frame, and you're good to go.
- Hasp and Padlock: For extra security, add a hasp, made of metal with holes, to the door. Lock it up tight with a padlock through the hasp's holes.
- Specific Barn Door Locks: These locks are tailor-made for barn doors. You can choose from options like a hook and eye latch, or perhaps a lock that works from both sides of the door.
- Handles with Locks: Some barn door handles have their own locks or key-operated mechanisms. They're a handy, secure way to lock up.
- Smart Locks: Want a touch of tech? Give smart locks a go. Control them remotely using a smartphone app or keypad entry for convenience and safety.
- Mortise Lock: In some cases, barn doors have mortise locks, recessed into the door's edge. You'll need a key to operate these.
Ultimately, your choice of lock depends on your needs, the type of barn door, and your security and convenience preferences. Be sure to pick a lock that suits your door's design and intended purpose. Click here to learn more about our barn door privacy lock.
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How to stop barn doors from swinging?
If you’re looking to stop your barn door from swinging, there are many ways you can do it, based on your door type and what you need:
- Floor Guides: Often used with sliding barn doors, these guides keep the bottom of the door steady, stopping it from swinging outward.
- Anti-Swing Kits: These are specialized kits designed specifically to keep barn doors still. With stabilizer rods or floor guides included, these kits are a solid tool to stop your door from swinging when it's not being used.
- Door Stops: Easily limit your door’s movement by installing door stops. You can put them on the floor or the wall to block the door’s swing path when it’s opening.
- Hooks or Straps on Wall: Hooks or straps can be fixed onto the wall near where the door opens. Then you can hook the door onto them to keep the door from swinging.
- Latch or Lock: If your barn door has a latch or lock, you can partially close the door and engage the lock. This won’t completely stop the movement, but it limits the swing.
- Magnetic Catches: Placing magnetic catches on the door and the wall will hold the door in place when it’s open, meaning no swinging. They have a strong hold and are easy to disengage when needed.
- Draft Stoppers: Another great option is to use a draft stopper – you can purchase one premade or make one yourself – and place it at the door's base to help stabilize it and keep it from swinging.
- Track Adjustment: If your barn door slides on a track, make sure the track isn't too loose. A loose track will let the door sway, so adjust it correctly for stability.
What method works best for you depends on the type of barn door, where it's located, and its style. When picking a solution to stop your door from swinging, remember to keep safety and functionality in mind.
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Are barn doors good for bathrooms?
Sure, you can put barn doors in bathrooms, but whether they make sense for you depends on a few things:
- Space and Layout: Barn doors slide along the wall, meaning they don't eat up space like regular doors that swing open. So if your bathroom is on the smaller side or there's not much room for a door to swing, barn doors could be a good solution.
- Privacy: A major concern with barn doors for bathrooms is that they leave gaps along the sides when they're closed - not great for privacy. If you're looking at barn doors, choose a design that has minimal gaps or add extra stuff like a privacy lock or seal.
- Looks: Barn doors have a unique flair that can give your bathroom a style boost. With an array of designs, materials, and finishes, you can find a barn door that complements your bathroom's decor.
- Installation: Make sure the barn door is installed correctly for smooth and secure functioning. If you're not comfortable installing it yourself, hire a professional to avoid issues like poor alignment or tricky sliding.
- Ventilation: Barn doors aren't as airtight as regular doors, which can be beneficial if your bathroom needs good airflow. On the downside, this may diminish sound insulation and odor containment.
- Maintenance: Depending on what they're made of, barn doors might need regular upkeep like cleaning and resealing, particularly due to the dampness in bathrooms.
- Cost: Barn doors can vary in price, taking into account the hardware and installation costs. Keep your budget in mind when deciding on a door type.
In a nutshell, barn doors can work well in bathrooms, especially tinier ones or if you're after a distinct look. But, pay attention to aspects like privacy, ventilation, maintenance, and cost before going in for a barn door.
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Can any door be used as a barn door?
In theory, you could make a barn door out of almost any door, but there are a few practical things you need to consider:
- Size and Weight: Barn doors are generally bigger and bulkier than your regular inside doors. Make sure the door you pick is the right size and weight for your purpose. Doors that are too heavy could strain the sliding hardware and be tough to move.
- Compatible Hardware: Barn doors need specific gear like a sliding track, rollers, and brackets. Ensure the door you're planning to convert can handle this equipment. If the door is not intended for a sliding system, you might need to modify the door or get extra hardware.
- Design and Style: People usually opt for barn doors due to their rustic or farmhouse-style appeal. Even though you could use any door style, think if the door's look suits the overall decor of the room.
- Durability: Barn doors can take a beating more than normal inside doors. Make sure the door you choose, its material, and finish can stand up to where it will be used.
- Installation: Installing barn doors the right way is key for them to function and be safe. If you're not comfortable installing doors, it's best to ask for professional help.
- Budget: Take into account the cost of turning a regular door into a barn door, including the hardware and any changes you need to make.
In short, you can change most types of doors into barn doors with some tweaks. But, it's important to check the door's size, weight, style, and how well it will work as a barn door. Also, make sure you have all the necessary hardware and know-how for the install, and think about how it will look in your room.
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What are the pros and cons of barn doors?
Barn doors are trendy because of their unique look and how they save space, but like everything, they have their good and bad points. Let's have a look.
Barn Door Pros:- Save Space: Barn doors slide across the wall instead of swinging open like regular doors. This is great for small rooms or places where there's not much room for a door to swing.
- Stylish: Barn doors can bring a rustic or modern vibe to a room, making a stylish statement.
- Personalizable: They come in all sorts of designs, materials, and colors, so you can pick one that matches your room's decor.
- Easy to Use: Barn doors are usually easy to open and close for people of all ages since they don't have knobs or handles to turn.
- Ventilation: Because barn doors don't close as tight as regular doors, they can let more air flow through rooms that need good ventilation.
Barn Door Cons:
- Privacy Might Be an Issue: Barn doors often leave some gaps on the sides when they're closed, meaning they might not be completely private. This can be a problem for rooms like bathrooms or bedrooms.
- Noise and Smell: Since barn doors don't close as tight, they might not keep sound or odor in the room as well as regular doors.
- Installation Can Be Tough: It's crucial to install barn doors correctly for them to work smoothly. If not installed right, they can be tough to slide, or end up crooked.
- Price: The cost of barn doors can be higher than traditional doors, taking into account the hardware and installation costs.
- Design Match: The rustic or modern look of barn doors might not suit all interior styles, potentially not fitting in certain decor themes.
In a nutshell, barn doors save space, look stylish, and allow for good air flow. However, they might impact privacy, require some effort to install, and not fit all room decors. When thinking of getting barn doors, weigh these points against your room requirements and what you like or don't like.
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Are barn doors good for bedrooms?
Barn doors can be used in bedrooms, but whether they're a good choice depends on some things and what you need. Here are some points to think about:
Good Things About Barn Doors in Bedrooms:- Save Space: Barn doors slide on the wall instead of swinging open. This means they take up less space, which is great for small bedrooms or tight layouts.
- Look Stylish: Barn doors can add a unique and fashionable touch to a bedroom, making them a cool design feature. Customizable: They come in all sorts of designs, materials, and colors, so you can pick a barn door that matches your bedroom's style.
- Easy to Use: Barn doors are usually easy to open and close for people of all ages since they don't have handles or knobs to turn.
Not-So-Good Things About Barn Doors in Bedrooms:
- Noise and Smell: Barn doors don't close as tight as regular doors, so they might not keep noise or smells out as much as other doors.
- Noise and Smell: Since barn doors don't close as tight, they might not keep sound or odor in the room as well as regular doors.
- Light Control: If you need a dark room for sleeping, barn doors might not be the best choice because light can get through the gaps around the edges.
In the end, barn doors can work well in bedrooms as long as you consider a few things. They're perfect for saving space and adding style to a room. But if privacy, soundproofing, and light control are important, you might need to do some extra work to address these issues or look at other door types.
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Are barn doors expensive?
Barn doors can be more expensive than standard swinging doors, but the cost difference can vary depending on several factors, like the materials, design, size, and hardware used. Here are some points to keep in mind:
- Materials: What the barn door is made of can affect the cost. They can be made from different materials, like solid wood, engineered wood, metal, glass, or a mix of these. Solid wood doors often cost more than engineered wood or metal doors.
- Design and Customization: How complex the design is and how much you want to customize it can change the price. More detailed designs, custom finishes, and special features might mean a higher cost.
- Size: Bigger barn doors usually cost more than smaller ones because they need more materials and work to make them.
- Hardware: The type and quality of the hardware used for sliding the door can also make a difference in the overall cost. Better quality, long-lasting hardware can cost more but will work more smoothly and reliably.
- Installation: If you need a professional to install the barn door, that will add to the total cost. How much it costs to install can change based on how complicated the work is.
- Extra Features: Some barn doors have more features, like built-in mirrors or windows, which can make the cost higher.
Keep these points in mind when figuring out how much a barn door costs.
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What is the difference between a sliding door and a barn door?
Sliding doors and barn doors both move side to side on a track, but their design, use, and looks are different.
Sliding Door:- Design: Sliding doors come in many styles, like modern, traditional, and contemporary designs. They usually have a clean and simple appearance.
- Functionality: Sliding doors are flexible and can be used inside or outside. You can find them in homes, offices, and commercial spaces. They can be used as patio doors, closet doors, room dividers, and more.
- Hardware: Sliding doors often have hidden tracks and rollers, which you can't see when the door is closed. The hardware is usually made to be not noticeable.
- Privacy: Sliding doors tend to give more privacy than barn doors because they close tighter. This makes them a good option for bedrooms, bathrooms, and other private areas.
- Materials: Sliding doors can be made from different materials, like glass, wood, aluminum, and composite materials.
Barn Door:
- Noise and Smell: Barn doors don't close as tight as regular doors, so they might not keep noise or smells out as much as other doors.
- Design: Barn doors usually have a rustic or farmhouse look with visible hardware, like the track and rollers mounted on the outside of the door. They're known for their unique and decorative style.
- Hardware: Barn doors have hardware you can see, which adds to their special look.
- Privacy: Barn doors might not give as much privacy as sliding doors because they can leave gaps on the sides when closed. You can add extra hardware to make barn doors more private.
- Materials: Barn doors are often made from wood, or other rustic materials. Their design typically focuses on a more natural and aged look.
In short, the main differences between sliding doors and barn doors are their style, where they're used, how the hardware looks, and how much privacy they give. Barn doors are often chosen for their unique style and decorative value in indoor spaces.
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What is the difference between barn doors vs pocket doors?
Barn doors and pocket doors are types of sliding doors. They're different in terms of how they work, how they look, and where they're usually used. Let's look at how barn doors and pocket doors are different:
Barn Doors:- How They Work: Barn doors slide on a track that's fixed to the wall above the door. They move from side to side and you can always see them, whether they're open or closed.
- How They Look: Barn doors often have a rustic or farmhouse style and are loved for their decorative appeal. They often have visible features, like the track, rollers, and handles, which are part of their appeal.
- Where They're Used: Barn doors are mainly used as doors inside the home. They're often used in living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, and other areas where their design can be a standout feature.
- Space: While barn doors can save more space than a swing door, they do need more space on one side of the door for the track.
- Privacy: Barn doors might not give you full privacy, as they typically leave gaps at the sides when shut. You can add more hardware or seals to increase privacy.
Pocket Doors:
- How They Work: When opened, pocket doors slide into a hidden pocket or space inside the wall. When they’re open, they're entirely hidden inside the wall, which is why they're called "pocket" doors.
- How They Look: Pocket doors have a more stealthy design. When open, you can't see their tracks, rollers, or handles. They have a minimal look and don't grab your attention.
- Where They're Used: Pocket doors are versatile and can be used in homes and businesses. They're often picked because they save space and can create a smooth transition between rooms.
- Space: Pocket doors save space in a smart way because they don't need wall space alongside the door. The wall pocket acts as the space for the door when it's open.
- Privacy: Pocket doors, when shut, are generally more private than barn doors. They make a more close-fitting seal and effectively block sound and light.
In short, barn doors are known for their decorative, visible sliding mechanisms, making a statement in indoor spaces. They're often used in areas where their design is appreciated. Pocket doors, on the other hand, hide within the wall and are chosen for their space-saving and functional benefits, making them a practical choice for various indoor settings. The decision between the two depends on what you prefer in terms of design, and what the specific requirements of your space are.
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What is the difference between barn doors vs French doors?
Barn doors and French doors are two different kinds of doors. They each have their own design, how they work, and where they're used. Here's how barn doors and French doors are different:
Barn Doors:- Design and Look: Barn doors often have a rustic or farmhouse-like design. They're recognized by their side-to-side sliding operation and their visible features, like a track, rollers, and handles, usually fixed to the wall above the door frame. Barn doors are loved for their unique and decorative look.
- How They Work: Barn doors slide from side to side along a visible track. Even when they're fully opened or shut, you can still see them. They're known for their smooth sliding action.
- Where They're Used: Barn doors are mainly used as doors inside, chosen for their appealing look. They're commonly used in living spaces, dining rooms, kitchens, and other areas where their design can be a standout feature.
- Space: Barn doors can save more space than a swing door as they don't require free space for the door to swing. But, they do need wall space on one side of the door for the track.
- Privacy: Barn doors may not give full privacy, as they often leave gaps on the sides when shut. If you need more privacy, you can add more hardware or seals.
French Doors:
- Design and Look: French doors have a classic and stylish design. They're made up of two full-length panels that swing open and have glass panels or window inserts for glass. French doors are known for their timeless and refined look.
- How They Work: French doors swing open and shut on hinges like traditional doors. Depending on how they're designed and installed, they can swing either inward or outward.
- Where They're Used: French doors are flexible and can be used as interior doors, patio doors, or exterior doors. They're often chosen because they let natural light in and can create an open, welcoming transition between rooms or between indoors and outdoors.
- Space: Because French doors swing open, they need enough clearance for the door to swing. This means they need floor and wall space on both sides of the door, which could limit their use in small or tight spaces.
- Privacy: If you have the right window coverings or frosted glass, French doors can provide better privacy. However, they might not provide the same level of privacy as solid doors.
In short, barn doors are known for their decorative, visible sliding hardware, making a statement in interior spaces. They're often used for their decorative appeal. On the other hand, French doors are classic and elegant doors that swing open. They're often chosen for their ability to let in natural light and create a sense of openness. The choice between the two depends on your design preferences and the specific needs of your space.