Barn doors are a creative way to bring some character into any home. Beyond traditional sliding barn doors for doorways, there are many other creative ways to use barn doors.
Whether you’re looking for some DIY project inspiration or need someone to build your very own barn door chalkboard or barn door garage door, Mr. Handyman can help.
Keep reading to learn creative ways to use a barn door, or give Mr. Handyman a call if you’re ready to begin that next barn door project.
Barn Door Chalkboard
Barn door chalkboards are the perfect addition to kids’ rooms. Not only do you have the look and convenience of a barn door, but it also encourages kids to draw on the chalkboard instead of the walls! A can of chalkboard paint makes this an easy DIY project. You can either coat a mirror or a sheet of metal in this paint and then secure it to the barn door. Always make sure the barn door rail can support this added weight before proceeding.
Barn Door Bookcase
A barndoor bookcase adds a nice farmhouse look to your office or living room. Most bookcases have one barn door that slides back and forth between each bookcase section; this allows you to section off one side of the bookcase for items you want to store behind the door. Barn doors can be retrofitted to existing bookshelves, but it will require some modification and carpentry skills to make it look like it was part of the bookcase. You can also combine a barndoor bookcase with a built in TV stand in the middle and use the doors to cover the TV when it’s not in use.
Barn Door Garage Doors
Barn doors used as garage doors add a nice rustic touch to exterior spaces. Although they can also be less expensive than traditional garage doors, there is a trade-off in security and weather protection, since they have gaps on all sides.
Barn doors on garages can’t use an automatic door opener, either. However, the aesthetics and cost savings outweigh these cons for some homeowners. Installing these doors as a DIY project is easier than traditional garage doors, but requires a lot of tools and carpentry skills. When barn doors are constructed out of solid wood, homeowners have endless options of paint or stain so they can get the exact look they want.
Barn Door Dresser
If you’re looking for a one-of-a kind bedroom dresser, adding barn doors will do it. This stylish design element isn’t just great-looking; it also allows you to use more space within the dresser since there’s no drawer hardware in the way.
If you’re retrofitting barn doors on a pre-existing piece of furniture, make sure you have the necessary clearances for the hardware before you begin, and that it can support the weight. You’ll also need to source smaller barn door hardware for these types of applications. In most cases it’s best to start from scratch if you want to utilize a barn door in certain types of furniture.
Barn Door Windows
Barn door window treatments are a fun way to bring some farmhouse charm and function into your home. Whether they’re used as exterior shutters or interior window coverings, you’ll have plenty of options for colors and hardware types. Barn doors can be used to cover picture windows and even floor-to-ceiling windows.
Barn doors can also be added to entertainment centers, armoires, bars, bathroom vanities and more.
Adding a barn door to an entertainment center or to a large picture window is a difficult DIY task. The good news is that Mr. Handyman’s custom carpentry services can build the exact barn door you’re looking for and will finish it to our exact specifications.
Whether you need a barn door installed in a dresser, on your garage, or you want a custom-built entertainment center with barn doors, Mr. Handyman can help. With years of experience and our satisfaction guarantee, you can rest assured that you’ll get exactly what you want. Give us a call today or request service online.
All Mr. Handyman franchises are locally owned and operated and may offer fewer or more services than those listed here. To learn more about barn door bookcases, chalkboards, and more offered in your area, contact your local Mr. Handyman for details or a customized on-site assessment.
Mr. Handyman has been helping homeowners repair, maintain, and enhance their spaces for over 25 years! We are the one-stop solution for everything on your to-do list. This includes answering your questions about home repairs, maintenance, and improvements. Here are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about barn door bookcases, chalkboards, and more.
Barn doors are a stylish option that helps maximize room space and functionality. Common uses for barn doors include:
Barn doors for interior use require enough wall space on one side of the door opening that is at least as wide as the door so it can fully slide open. You’ll also want an additional one to two inches of overlap on each side of the doorway for privacy and functionality. For simple calculations, measure the width of the door plus two to four inches of wall space on one side. For the track, you’ll need enough for double the width of the door. Make sure the wall is clear of any light switches, electrical outlets, or other obstacles that could interfere with the door sliding.
The best material for barn door uses depends on your style and functional needs. Some standard options include wood, which provides a timeless, warm look that comes in various finishes. If you’re hoping to have a more industrial or modern style, choose glass with a wood or metal frame. Metal is also an excellent choice for industrial interiors and offers durability. For homeowners on a budget, MDF or composite materials are a great choice and can be customized with different paint and finishes.
While you can technically install a barn door for interior use on any wall, the wall must have enough structural support. You’ll want to attach it to the wall studs and possibly add in a backer board for some extra stability, especially if you’re installing it on drywall. Keep in mind that not every wall can support a barn door without reinforcement.
It’s technically possible to install a barn door on a concrete wall, but it requires specialized hardware and drilling techniques. Before you install, make sure the wall is free of any obstructions.
Yes. In small spaces, barn doors are a great option because they are relatively easy to install and save space. You don’t need to create square footage for a door to swing open; you just need a wall that is wide enough. Doors require up to 14 square feet of floor space to spring, but a barn door frees up all that room.
Some popular barn door uses include small spaces because they can be used in many types of rooms, including pantries, closets, and bathrooms. If you want even more room, you might want to consider a bypass barn door, which is perfect for closets and pantries. In this design, one door slides behind the other to conserve even more space.
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