Crafted from reclaimed wood, barnwood sliding doors add weathered charm and character to any space. Here’s how to save money… and less time installing them.
Advantages of Installing Barnwood Sliding Doors
- Customize your barnwood doors with diverse styles, sizes, colors, and finishes according to your preferences.
- Save floor space by sliding these doors along a wall or ceiling-mounted track. Install barnwood sliding doors easily with basic carpentry skills due to their straightforward installation.
- Reclaimed barnwood’s durability enables these doors withstand daily use while retaining their charm.
- Barnwood sliders suit both interior and exterior spaces, complementing various architectural styles effectively.
Selecting the Perfect Barnwood Sliding Door
When choosing a barnwood sliding door for your home, consider these ideas:
- Measure Accurately: Measure the doorway precisely so that you purchase the right-sized door, saving time and money on returns or adjustments. TIP: Use a laser measuring tool for accuracy.
- Material Quality: Search for good barnwood that lasts long and looks nice. Find reclaimed or real barnwood from places like Etsy or local salvage yards for special choices.
- Cost-Effective Solutions: DIY installations can save money. Utilize online tutorials and resources, like YouTube channels such as “DIY Creators,” for step-by-step guidance.
- Hardware Selection: Invest in quality hardware, like sturdy tracks and rollers, to prevent future issues. Check customer reviews for reliable hardware brands. TIP: Soft-close mechanisms reduce noise.
- Sealant and Finishing: Apply a protective sealant or finish to the barnwood to enhance its lifespan. Using clear polyurethane or beeswax-based products preserves the wood.
- Space Optimization: Opt for sliding doors in rooms with limited space. Statistics show that barnwood sliding doors save up to 14 square feet compared to traditional swing doors.
- Adaptability and Style: Customization allows for various styles and sizes. Websites like Wayfair offer a range of options for different home aesthetics and sizes.
- Proper Installation: Follow installation guides meticulously. DIY kits from hardware stores often provide comprehensive instructions and hardware.
By leveraging these tips, resources, and DIY strategies, selecting and installing a barnwood sliding door becomes a cost-effective and rewarding addition to your home’s interior design.
How Much Do Barnwood Doors Cost?
Barnwood sliding door prices vary widely based on factors like size and customization. Standard-sized doors can range from $300 to $1,500, while larger or customized options may surpass $2,000.
PRO TIP: Salvage yards often offer reclaimed barnwood at lower costs for DIY projects. Plus, DIY door kits make barn door installation much more manageable, even for newbies.
Customization impacts prices significantly. Statistics indicate that custom sizes or intricate designs can increase costs by 20% to 50%. Online retailers like Home Depot or Lowe’s provide pricing details for various door sizes and customization options.
To save on costs, consider DIY installation, potentially saving hundreds of dollars in labor fees. Online tutorials from websites such as Ana White or Bob Vila offer step-by-step guidance.
Good hardware is important for making things last. Buy trusted brands such as Johnson Hardware or Quiet Glide. But keep in mind, the price of hardware can add to the total cost.
How to Install Sliding Barn Doors
Installing barn doors is a rewarding project that adds rustic charm to your home. Follow this step-by-step guide:
- Gather the necessary tools and materials, ie. sliding door kit, measuring tape, level, screwdriver or drill, pencil or marker and stud finder (optional).
- Measure the door space accurately to choose the correct size door.
- Prepare for installation by making sure the surface is level.
- Attach mounting brackets securely on both sides of the doorway.
- Install the track system above the doorway, double-checking that it’s level and secure.
- Hang the rollers onto the track and carefully insert the door panel into the track slots.
- Adjust the door for proper alignment and smooth operation.
- Secure the floor guide for added stability (if applicable).
- Add decorative handles or pulls to your door.
Where Can You Get Authentic, Quality Barnwood for Your Doors?
Real barnwood for sliding doors can come from salvage yards, places that sell reclaimed wood, or websites like Etsy. You can also find affordable reclaimed barnwood by looking in local classified ads or at demolition sites.
DIY TIP: To mimic reclaimed wood with a generic sliding barn door kit, try distressing techniques using tools like hammers, chains, or sandpaper. Staining with a mix of water, vinegar, and steel wool creates an aged appearance.
Websites such as Remodelaholic or DIY Network offer detailed tutorials on distressing techniques and staining to achieve a weathered barnwood look.
Utilize milk paint or layered paint techniques for added authenticity. Experimenting with multiple paint layers can replicate the aged appearance of authentic barnwood.
PRO TIP: Applying a clear coat or wax after distressing and staining preserves the finish and protects the door.
You can make a regular sliding barn door kit look like real reclaimed wood by using distressing and staining methods. This helps create an authentic-looking door.
Post-Installation Care and Maintenance
Make sure that your barnwood sliding door lasts long with these maintenance tips:
- Clean it regularly using a soft cloth or wood-specific cleaner.
- Avoid excess moisture exposure to prevent warping or rot.
- Apply sealant to protect and enhance its natural beauty.
- Lubricate hardware for smooth operation. I like this silicone lubricant spray.
- Regularly inspect for damage and promptly address any issues.
Why Hire a Professional for Installation
If you’re not sure about putting in barn doors yourself? Think about hiring a handyman. They can do the tricky installation work for you.