Do you want to install a sliding barn door… that locks? Good News! You can, with a $15 barn door lock.
In fact, you have a few options to choose from when adding a lock to a barn door. Plus, they are easy to install and unobtrusive for all size sliders. (And you thought installing a barn door was easy!)
1. How to Make a Barn Door Lock with a Flush-to-Wall Device:
The first device is a teardrop or fan-shaped lock which comes in 2 parts: the fan blade and the latch groove. First, attach the latch groove to the sliding door. Then, fasten the fan blade to the doorway (as shown in the picture).
The fan swings back and forth flush against the wall to lock and unlock, so you don’t have to worry about it sticking out.
In addition, you secure the fan to the side of the doorway where the door hangs when open. Therefore, you don’t really notice the latch.
All of the screws and hardware you need come in the kit, so all you need is a drill to secure the locking hardware in place.
SmartStandard Barn Door Lock Specs:
- Fan Blade: 3″ Tall x 2 3/4″ Wide
- Latch Groove: 3″ T x 4/5″ D
- Material: Carbon Steel
- Powder-Coated Finish
- 2 Size Options: Large or Small
- 2 Colors: Matte Black or Stainless Steel
- Brand: SmartStandard
- Get the SmartStandard Door Latch Here
I like this swinging latch best because it is inconspicuous and easy to use. Simply press with your finger to open or close the lock. You can see in the video below how this locking system also works if you have a gap between the door and the wall.
2. How to Add a Latch Lock to a Barn Door:
Alternatively, you can use a simple hook and eye latch. Although simple, this heavy-duty, hand-forged locking mechanism works really well as a privacy lock.
In fact, some people install it higher to double as a child lock. (Kids can’t accidentally lock themselves in.)
Compared to the fan lock, the hook and latch offers more versatility as far as installation. For example, you can affix both parts on a one-directional surface or perpendicular, as shown on the left.
It features an industrial, rustic and vintage look that fits well with authentic-looking barn doors. That said, the subtle texturing also works well with contemporary and modern style sliders.
Note: By the way, you can use this type of locking hardware on gates, windows, shutters or a shed. It is durable enough for both indoor and outdoor use.
Compared to other locks, the hook-and-latch set lets you conveniently install it from the outside or the inside.
Specs for the Sliding Barn Door Latch:
- Hook Length: 5″ Long
- Color: Black
- Material: Solid Steel
- Finish: Wrought Iron (black powder-coated anti-corrosion finish)
- Brand: Tibres
- Get the Sliding Barn Door Latch
I have not seen this latch kit in white, brown or bronze, but you can get it in stainless steel. In addition, this lockable latch comes as a set with a matching door handle.
Note: I especially like these locking mechanisms because you can install them at any height. In other words, you can affix them out of reach of little kids’ hands. =)
Plus, they add extra security and privacy to bedrooms and bathrooms, where you might not have thought a barn door would work. (By the way, this system works better for security than the fan lock above.)
3. How to Use a Schlage Barn Door Bolt Lock:
Schlage also makes a bolt lock that works similar to a jamb or pin lock that you press in. Installation requires a little more work, as you need to carve out a portion of the door to fit the hardware.
Therefore, this system is designed for use with solid doors rather than a hollow core. You can also use it on pocket doors.
You can also buy a 90-degree lock typically used on pocket doors. However, most people report that these latches don’t reach far enough and therefore don’t work.
