Choosing the right door for your bedroom is an important decision that impacts both the style and functionality of the space. In recent years, barn doors have surged in popularity as a trendy and space-saving option for interior doors, including bedrooms.
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using barn doors in bedrooms and examine alternative door styles to help you determine what kind of door is perfect for your bedroom.
Whether you’re building a new home, renovating an existing space, or simply looking to update your bedroom doors, this comprehensive guide will provide valuable insights and inspiration to help you make an informed decision that enhances both the form and function of your personal retreat.
What is a Barn Door？
A barn door, in the traditional sense, is the large door of a barn used to allow entry of animals, equipment, and hay at the farmhouse. Barn doors are usually very large, often big enough for a vehicle to pass through. They are typically made of wood and may slide or swing open on hinges.
In interior décor, a “barn door” refers to a sliding door mounted on a track above the door opening to divide spaces or close off rooms. The sliding barn doors save floor space compared to a swinging door and add a rustic or modern aesthetic, depending on the design.
What are the Benefits of Barn Doors for Bedrooms？
Barn doors are a stylish option that can fit various design themes, from rustic to modern. Aesthetic appeal is a significant advantage as these doors often become the room’s focal point.
Space-Saving Design
One of the main advantages of barn doors is their space-saving design. Unlike traditional swinging doors that require clearance to open, barn doors slide along a wall-mounted track, taking up virtually no floor space. This makes them ideal for small bedrooms or tight spaces where every square foot counts.
Versatility
Barn doors are incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways within the bedroom. In addition to the main entrance, they can be installed as closet doors, ensuite bathroom doors, or even as room dividers. This flexibility allows you to create a cohesive look throughout the space while maximizing functionality. Barn doors can also be customized with different hardware options, such as soft-close mechanisms or privacy locks, to suit your specific needs.
Easy Installation
Compared to traditional doors that often require precise measurements and extensive carpentry work, barn doors are relatively easy to install. The track system mounts directly onto the wall, eliminating the need for a complex door frame. This makes them a great option for DIY enthusiasts or those looking to update their bedroom doors without undertaking a major renovation project. Additionally, if you decide to change your decor in the future, swapping out the barn door is a simple process.
What are the Disadvantages of Barn Doors for Bedrooms？
Limited Sound Insulation and Privacy
One of the main drawbacks of barn doors is that they don’t provide the same level of sound insulation as traditional doors. Because barn doors are designed to hang over the doorway, they don’t create a tight seal, allowing sound to travel more easily between rooms. This can be problematic if you’re looking for a quiet, private space in your bedroom.
Additionally, barn doors often don’t sit flush with the wall, creating small gaps that can compromise visual privacy. While you can minimize this issue by choosing a larger door and mounting the hardware closer to the wall.
Potential for Noise and Difficulty Latching
Depending on the quality of the track and hardware, barn doors can be louder to operate than traditional doors. The sliding mechanism may also make it harder to achieve a tight latch, which can be inconvenient in a bedroom setting.
Maintenance and Durability Concerns
The exposed track of a barn door can accumulate dust and debris over time, which may affect its smooth operation if not cleaned regularly. Cheaper hardware is also more prone to wear and tear, so investing in high-quality components is crucial for long-term durability.
How to Select Bedroom Barn Doors for Bedrooms？
Determine the Right Size
Measuring for the correct size is crucial to ensure your barn door fits and functions properly.
- Door Width: Measure the width of your door opening from edge to edge. For openings with trim, measure from the outside edge of the trim. Add 2-4″ to this measurement for overlap to eliminate gaps and ensure privacy. For openings without trim, also add 2-4″ to the opening width.
- Door Height: Measure from the floor to the top of the door opening or trim. Subtract 1/2″ from this measurement to allow clearance at the bottom.
Consider the space from the top of your door frame to the ceiling to ensure you have room to mount the track hardware, usually at least 6″.
Choose Your Style and Design
If your bedroom has a minimalist look, a flush barn door with a simple design would be a great choice. For a cozy, rustic feel, consider a reclaimed wood door with a traditional style. Industrial interiors might look best with metal-finished doors.
The color of your barn door plays a big role in your bedroom. A bright or bold color can add a pop of color and make a statement. Conversely, neutral colors like white, beige, or gray offer a more subtle look. You can consider the door’s color, which matches or contrasts with your walls and furniture.
Consider an unfinished door you can paint or stain yourself for a custom look.
Determine if You Need Single or Double Doors
Once you’ve established the foundation of your bedroom’s design by selecting the right barn door size, style, and material, it’s time to add those essential finishing touches that will transform the space and make it truly your own.
Most bedrooms use a single barn door, but double doors can make a dramatic statement for a grand entrance or large opening. Ensure you have enough wall space on either side for the doors to slide open completely.
Select Track Hardware
The barn door track hardware comes in different styles like classic flat strap, straight strap, bent strap, aero, and more. Choose a design that pair your door and other hardware in the room.
Consider the weight capacity of the hardware and select an option rated for your door’s weight. Heavy, dense wood, glass, or metal doors will need heavy-duty hardware.
Track length should be at least twice the width of a single door and four times the width for double doors to allow them to open fully.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do barn doors impact the resale value of a home?
Barn doors can increase the appeal of your home due to their trendy appearance. Potential buyers may find them attractive, which could positively influence the resale value.
Are there soundproofing options for barn doors used in bedrooms?
You can add weatherstripping or special acoustic seals to help reduce noise. While they won’t be as soundproof as traditional doors, these additions can improve the situation.
English 
Spanish 
French 
Italian 
German 
Dutch 
Swedish 
Polish 
Romanian 
Greek 
Portuguese 
Czech 
Bulgarian