How to Build a Sliding Barn Door How to Build a Sliding Barn Door
Sliding barn doors not only give your home rustic charm, but also allow for greater productivity because the door remains out of the way when opened. In addition, they can operate easily even during inclement weather. While this guide is for building a sliding barn door for a barn, having these doors inside of the home is currently trending. Follow the steps below to get started on building your own.
Step 1 – Cutting the Boards
Measure the barn door opening and then cut the board to the height and width needed to construct the frame. To create a stronger frame, either double stack 2x4s or use 4-by-4 wood beams.
Step 2 – Assembling the Frame
Use metal braces and galvanized screws or nails to assemble the doorframe. Cut a cross brace, attaching it to the frame center. For large barn doors, use a diagonal brace on both halves of the frame.
Step 3 – Placing the Planks
Place the planking, cut to the barn door height, on top of the frame. Attach these to the barn-door frame using galvanized screws or nails. Dab a drop of wood glue at each screw or nail head for extra added strength.
Step 4 – Mounting the Track
Mount the sliding-door track to the top of the frame using wood screws and a power driver. Use a level to obtain the exact alignment needed.
Step 5 – Adding the Wheels
Use three or four track wheels mounted on the bottom of the door, so that it will slide along a level surface. Use a bottom track if the door will be higher than the barn foundation, like if the barn has an entry ramp.
Step 6 – Installing the Wall Tracks
Once the sliding barn door is assembled, measure the track lengths on the frame and install similar-sized tracks on the barn walls where the door will retract. Install a wall tract slightly longer to ensure the door will be completely away from the door opening when in a retracted position.
Step 7 – Decorating Your Door
You can paint your new sliding barn door before attaching it. While some are decoratively painted, others are plain and rustic-looking. Make sure to use outdoor, weather-resistant paint. In addition, you can add a lock to your barn door for extra security.
Step 8 – Performing Maintenance
You should perform periodic maintenance that includes cleaning the door tracking and removing any small-particle debris found. Also, inspect track wheels occasionally to keep these in working condition. They will wear with use and will need replacement, but periodic inspection and cleaning will extend wheel life and door usage.