What are Bifold Barn Doors? Barn door bifold doors mix the style of old barn doors with the practicality of bifold doors. They’re made with hinged panels that fold, copying the sliding movement of barn doors. Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s sell different types, like wood or metal, giving that classic rustic look.
In addition to looking nice, these doors can also save space. In fact, even the National Association of Realtors says they are stylish space savers that open up valuable space in a home. The trend of sliding barn doors continues to grow due to their adaptability and chic design.
PRO TIP: Maintaining a clean track system enhances the smooth operation of these doors, a key point often overlooked by many homeowners.
Also, remember to oil the hinges and tracks regularly to keep the folding smooth and stop it from wearing out. (I use use WD 40 Silicone Lubricant because it’s cheap and it works.)
How to Install Bifold Doors:
1. First, you place a track above the doorway or wall. (Choose an easy-to-install track kit that measures 4″+ wider than your doors.) Then, attach the door panels using rollers or hinges (included in the kit).
2. Second, get your bifold door panels. Generally, barn door bifold track kits are designed to work with various types of bifold doors.
In other words, they provide all the necessary hardware convert standard bifold doors into ones that operate like barn doors. Therefore, you can use a barn style, contemporary, black-framed glass, shutter doors, etc..
Alternatively, you can buy an all-in-one package that comes with both the metal track and bi-fold barn door panels custom-sized to your door opening. Just choose your wood color and door width.
Good measurements and the right tools make for an easy setup. Although this home improvement project is fairly simple, you want to allow yourself several hours and don’t rush. You can find barn door installation instructions here.
PRO TIP: Remember to measure the door accurately to avoid blockage, and then leave enough room for folding.
Stores like The Home Depot and guides from Bob Vila also offer steps for installing these doors.
What are the Advantages of Bifold Barn Doors?
Barn door bifold doors are super practical because they conserve space and add style with a rustic tone. Famous decorators like Joanna Gaines have made these doors really popular because they can make homes both practical and cool-looking. Furthermore, they can potentially impact a home’s value in a positive way.
PRO TIPS: To stop doors from slamming, use soft-close components for a quiet and controlled closing. Also, make sure the sliding hardware fits the door weight for smooth and easy movement.
Where Should You Use Bifold Barn Doors in a House and Why?
Bifold barn doors work best in places where you don’t have the extra wall space to slide a regular barn door open. For example, if you have a closet located in a corner – or a pantry next to the fridge.
Kitchen: They’re excellent for pantries, offering easy access without requiring space for door swing. You can even DIY an existing door into the farmhouse style like this one without having to buy new panels.
Bedrooms: They work wonders as closet doors, allowing full access while adding a rustic charm to the room. Think “walk-in closet” style – but instead using a ClosetMaid ShelfTrack.
Home Offices: Installing them for office nooks helps delineate spaces while imparting a chic look. Alternatively, you can use them to stylishly hide a desk in a closet when not in use.
Living Rooms or Dining Rooms: Barn doors can partition spaces to create cozy corners or hide away certain areas while still maintaining an open feel.
Bathrooms: As a space-saving remedy for washrooms with restricted space, bifold barn doors provide privacy without intruding on the floor space. See other bathroom barn door ideas.
PRO TIPS: There are ways you can soundproof barn doors to prevent sound leakage between rooms when using these doors for privacy.
Can Barn Style Bifold Doors Be Used for Closets or Larger Openings?
Closets: They offer an elegant yet space-saving solution, allowing easy access without undermining style. Easily reach all of your clothes at the same time – much better than the sliding bypass style. (Check out these DIY closet organizers too.)
Larger Openings: They are adaptable and can effectively cover larger openings. Therefore, you get more flexibility in width and design.
Customization: Homeowners can customize panels with select materials, colors and finishes to match their space. DIY influencers like Ana White provide step-by-step guides for building customized bifold doors at home, allowing for personalization.
