Are Barn Doors Good for Bathrooms? (Expert Insights)

Barn doors look amazing in bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchens. However, have you ever thought about installing one in your bathroom? Barn doors can be a fabulous addition to any bathroom as they are sleek and practical.

However, it is not a one-size-fits-all model, which means that not all bathrooms are suitable for barn doors. If you are thinking of incorporating a barn door into your next bathroom project, we are here to help. We created this helpful guide to help you decide if barn doors are a good choice for your bathroom. We will look at the pros and cons of installing one in your space.

Let’s get into it!

Benefits of Barn Doors in Bathrooms

We all know that barn doors make a great addition to our bedrooms and living rooms, but what about bathrooms? You may be surprised to learn that there are many benefits of installing a barn door in your bathroom, ranging from practical to aesthetic. Here is a breakdown of the main benefits that installing a barn door in your bathroom will bring.

Space-saving

One of the biggest benefits that choosing a barn door for your bathroom brings is that it is a great space-saving hack. Barn doors are generally a great option for those low on space. Barn doors slide from side to side to open. They do not move in and out. This design saves space. Barn doors do not need extra clearance around them. 

Bathrooms often have very little space, especially in older homes or in rooms with just a toilet and sink. Choosing a barn door for your bathroom can save space. It will also make your existing areas feel larger.

Aesthetic appeal

While barn doors are highly practical, we cannot forget their immense aesthetic appeal. Whether you want a rustic farmhouse design or something chic and classy, a barn door is a great choice. We often forget to bring design ideas from our living rooms and bedrooms into the bathroom. Sometimes, it feels too hard to add design elements to bathrooms. 

A barn door is a simple and practical way to enhance your bathroom's look. You don't need large statement pieces or many extra design elements.

Versatility in design

Many people write off the use of barn doors in their bathrooms as they believe the design will not fit in with their space. There is a common misconception that barn doors are only suitable for “farmhouse” or “rustic” inspired spaces. 

A barn door looks great in these themes. However, it is also very versatile. You can use it in many different design ideas. You can customize barn doors to match your style. Whether you want a farmhouse look for your bathroom or an industrial vibe, a barn door is a great choice.

Drawbacks of Barn Doors in Bathrooms

While there might be some fantastic benefits that come from choosing a barn door for your bathroom, there are also some drawbacks. A barn door has a unique design. It looks great and adds beauty to a space. However, using it in a bathroom has some downsides.

Noise Concerns

One of the core features of a barn door is that it is a sliding door, rather than a door that swings in and out. Because of this, when shut, a barn door doesn’t create a perfect seal around the doorframe. This usually isn’t a problem in other parts of the house. However, in a bathroom, it may mean there isn’t much noise-blocking. 

Bathrooms often need some soundproofing. A barn door may not provide that because of its design. If you are someone who wishes to have a soundproofed bathroom, a barn door may not be the right choice.

Installation Challenges

Another drawback that you might find when using a barn door in your bathroom is issues with the installation. Installing a barn door can be challenging, especially if it is your first time doing so. Your bathroom is probably being renovated while you install the new door. This unfinished space might make installation more difficult.

If you have never installed a barn door, or if your bathroom is tricky, think about whether a barn door is right for you.

Limited Ventilation

Bathrooms need a good deal of ventilation, and often this is done through slats in the bathroom door. Ventilation is important in bathrooms. It helps keep the room smelling fresh. It also prevents moisture build-up, especially if there is a shower. 

A barn door slides and is made of solid wood. This design limits ventilation, which may not give your bathroom the airflow it needs. Ventilating a bathroom with a barn door can be very hard. This may not matter if your bathroom does not have a shower. If your bathroom has a shower that you use often, a barn door may not give enough ventilation.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Barn Doors for Bathrooms

When choosing a barn door for your bathroom, there are several things you need to consider in order to do so successfully. Here are the main factors you need to take into account to ensure you pick the right barn door for your bathroom.

• Size of the bathroom: One of the most important considerations is the size of the bathroom if you wish to install the barn door. Barn doors are statement pieces, and if you have a small bathroom, you do not want a large barn door that overpowers the space. You must shop for barn doors with size in mind, and pick one that compliments the size of your bathroom.

• Style of the door: Contrary to popular belief, barn doors come in a wide range of styles. If your bathroom is a classic heritage design, then you do not want to install a rustic farmhouse-inspired barn door. Make sure you consider the style of your bathroom and choose a barn door accordingly. A barn door can make or break your space, so it is important that it is on theme.

• Type of hardware: Many people forget that a barn door requires some significant hardware that cannot be hidden. Hardware is required to attach the barn door to the wall or ceiling and to also allow it to slide from side to side. You can choose from many types of hardware. This lets you pick a kit that matches your barn door and the bathroom where it will be installed. Make sure you select sturdy and durable hardware, as it will be frequently used in a high-traffic area such as a bathroom.

• Material of the door: It is always a good idea to take into account the material that your barn door is made of. In a bathroom, the air is often more humid. Since this space is used often, choose a material that is strong and long-lasting. Solid wood barn doors are a great choice. However, ensure the wood is treated to resist moisture. It should also be strong enough for regular use.

The Bottom Line

A barn door is a great way to add interest to your next bathroom renovation or project. A barn door brings many advantages to the bathroom thanks to its sleek design and space-saving capabilities. However, it is important that you properly consider whether or not a barn door is the right choice for your bathroom. Not all bathrooms are suitable for barn doors, and it is a good idea to assess whether or not this applies to you. 

Consider the space you have and your design preferences. This will help you decide if a barn door is right for your next project!

Ready to transform your bathroom with a barn door? Make sure you have your barn door and barn door hardware to complete the project!