Essential Tips on How to Choose Barn Door Hardware
Barn doors are making waves across the interior design community. From sleek, modern homes to more rustic spaces, people are ditching traditional doors in favor of these space-saving, characterful versions. However, knowing how to choose barn door hardware is just as important as choosing the door itself, as the metallic hardware elements play a huge part in defining the door’s overall visual identity.
If you’re new to these features, it can feel overwhelming being faced with everything from sliding barn door hardware to bifold barn door hardware. What to go with? Getting familiar with the nature of every style— and what it offers visually and functionally—is vital to making the right choice. Being mindful of your selection will ensure smooth operation and aesthetic appeal.
This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting a barn door hardware kit, including track systems, materials, weight capacity, and finishes, helping you find the best fit for your project.
Understanding the different forms of barn door hardware
Perhaps you’ve already chosen a door with a stunning cherry finish that fits right into your living room or pantry. But when it comes to picking out the hardware, things feel a little more confusing. A proper understanding of the different functions and aesthetics will aid decision-making, whatever wood speaks to your soul.
Sliding barn door hardware
This type of barn door hardware is the form that can be found in most households. It’s a simple system where doors glide smoothly along a mounted track. This option is ideal for larger entryways, such as those found in living spaces, and bigger bathrooms. It provides easy access without the need for swinging clearance.
Bifold barn door hardware
Barn door hardware for bifold doors is an excellent solution for areas where space is at a premium, such as closets and pantries—not everyone has the space necessary for an MTV Cribs-style walk-in! These hardware systems enable doors to fold against themselves, reducing the area required for operation while maintaining the wood’s signature style.
Bypass barn door hardware
With bypass hardware systems, multiple barn doors slide past each other. This set-up comes in various in formats depending on your requirements:
- Single track bypass barn door hardware. Uses a single track, allowing two doors to slide past each other while minimizing the required wall space. This is the best choice for single doors or bypass applications where space is limited.
- Double track bypass sliding barn door hardware. Built from two separate tracks, allowing multiple doors to move independently—ideal for wider openings. Great for medium-large projects, such as an opening from the living room to the dining room.
- Triple track bypass sliding barn door hardware. With three tracks, these installations work well for maximalist installations in enormous spaces. They have a fairly imposing visual profile, so perhaps aren’t the best choice for tentative barn door newbies.
Exterior barn door hardware
Installing a barn door outside? When your project takes you out into the fresh air—perhaps a new guest house, kids’ play shed, or patio entrance—exterior barn door hardware ensures it withstands the elements. Look for weather-resistant materials like stainless steel or powder-coated finishes for longevity.
More practical considerations
Knowing how to choose barn door hardware isn’t just about the look and function of your tracks. The weight of the doors and the length of the hardware play similarly important roles.
- Weight considerations. Different barn door hardware kits support varying weight limits. Solid wood or heavier doors require heavy-duty tracks and rollers to function smoothly without sagging or strain.
- Track length. To determine the correct track size, measure the width of your barn door and ensure your barn door hardware kit includes a track at least twice the width of the door. This guarantees full door clearance when opened.
Material & finish options for barn door hardware
The material and finish of your hardware kit will impact both aesthetics and durability. The right choice will create a harmonious marriage with the door you’ve selected. Popular hardware finishes include:
- Steel & stainless steel. Strong and durable, excellent for both exterior barn door hardware and indoor applications.
- Brushed nickel. Modern and sleek, fitting for contemporary interiors.
- Black powder-coated steel. A classic option for industrial, rustic, or farmhouse designs.
- Bronze & brass finishes. Elegant and traditional, great for vintage or high-end decor styles.
What every hardware kit should include
A high-quality barn door hardware kit should include all the necessary components for smooth operation, such as:
- Flat tracks & junction plates
- Mounting hardware & bracketry
- Rollers sets
- Track stoppers for each roller
- Door guides (floor, wall, and/or ceiling mounted)
- Anti-jump bumpers
- Installation hardware kit
More comprehensive hardware kits can also include handles and pulls. Some also contain decorative customization options.
Have a browse and choose your perfect hardware solution!
Now you have a better idea about how to choose barn door hardware, it’s time to have a browse. Making the right choice will ensure seamless function while achieving your dream entryway aesthetic. Whether you’re looking for something that fits into your new farmhouse apartment scheme, a sleek modern family home, or something a little more bohemian, we offer a wide range of hardware options at The Barn Door Hardware Store.
For more insights into the nature of barn doors, installation guides, and styling information, check out the other articles on our blog today!
