Are you torn between the gliding aesthetic of barn doors and the convenience of hidden pocket doors for your home? Many homeowners appreciate the space-saving benefits offered by both options, which can make it even more difficult to choose. 

Let’s look at the unique benefits of each and other factors to consider when facing this dilemma for your home.  

Barn Doors

The barn door design has gained immense popularity in recent years, and it's easy to see why. Sliding along a track, barn doors save space by eliminating the need to open and close like traditional doors — which can be a huge benefit for those looking to maximize a smaller area.

Homeowners also love the warm, inviting atmosphere barn doors create throughout the home. Not to mention, they fit perfectly into a variety of different interior styles, while also adding unique character.

The installation process is simpler than a pocket door, making it an easier option for a retrofit project. The installation requires hardware for the track and door attachments, the door itself, and a few tools. Barn doors come in various materials, colors, and designs, making it easy to match existing styles and color schemes or select something that fits your vision.

Pocket Doors

Pocket doors take space-saving to another level, disappearing completely into the wall cavity when opened. This creates a seamless transition between rooms and allows homeowners the flexibility to make the most of their space.

For those who prefer a more contemporary and unobtrusive look, pocket doors are an excellent choice. They also offer better sound isolation than most barn doors, making them ideal for bedrooms, home offices, or bathrooms.

Quick Tips for Choosing the Right Door for Your Home

When to choose Barn Doors:

• You want to make a design statement with a gliding-style door.
• Space-saving is a priority, especially in small rooms or areas with limited clearance.
• You are looking for a relatively simple installation to replace a traditional door.
  

When to choose Pocket Doors:

• You need to maximize space in a small room.
• You desire a sleek, modern look.
• Sound isolation or accessibility is a priority for your space.

Retrofitting A Barn Door

If you're in an existing home and want to incorporate a barn door without doing a full remodel, you can opt for a retrofit. This allows you to tap into the space-saving and style benefits at a lower cost using an existing door opening.

Initially, you will need to choose a barn door and purchase the correct hardware. Barn doors utilize a sliding track, attachment hardware, and door handles. The barn door itself will need to be larger than a traditional door to fully cover the door opening. Keep in mind, this is a perfect time to refresh your interior style with new colors, materials, and textures.

Be sure to fix holes or dents left from the previous hardware before attaching the new door and consider a fresh coat of paint in those areas. Once the doorway and door both look the way you want them to, the hardware pieces can be attached.

Whether you opt for new door as part of your remodel or retrofit an existing doorway, the experts at Suburban Lumber are here to talk through your project, help you find the right materials, or even connect you with a local professional from our trusted network of contractors. Swing by our showroom or give us a call at 319-362-3115 to get started!