FAQ
Houston Door Showroom and Order Questions:
- Any door featured as a sale item on the GC Direct website and all other items sold on the showroom floor. These featured items are offered at deep discounts. Ask for pricing details and discount coupon.
- Any first quality product including premium entry doors and options from our product catalog. These first line products are eligible for a 20% discount. Ask for details.
We accept all major credit cards: Visa, AmEx, Mastercard, and Discover. You may also pay via check and/or cash. We do not offer financing at this time.
Customers may pick-up their orders during business hours, Monday thru Friday. Saturday pickup of orders is not available. If customers need the items shipped, we can ship your order for free in the continental US. Please let us know at the time of order placement.
Yes, samples are available for purchase in the showroom. Please ask our sales representatives for samples!
We offer a 20% discount to all first quality products including premium entry and barn doors.
There is a wide selection of discounted high-quality overstock and scratch-n-dent products on sale in our stock room. These doors are available for same day pick up.
We do not offer military discounts.
Please notify us as soon as you can if something is wrong with your order. We will be able to help you with any problems that occur during our normal business hours. If an item is missing, we will reship you the missing item or you can pick up.
Once your order has been processed by our team, you will receive an email notification stating your order has either gone into production for first line products or is ready to be picked up if it is a stock door. If your order has gone into production, you can expect production time to take 2-3 business weeks. If you have any questions about your order between those days, you are more than welcome to reach out to our team about your order. Once your order is ready for pick up or shipped, you will receive another email notifying you that your order has left our facility and is on its way to your home, or business. This email will provide a tracking number so you can track your shipment.
Yes, we do! Please refer to our installation service page for more info: https://glasscraftdirect.com/install-service/
General Houston Door Questions:
People used to build houses with two front doors for several reasons:
- Formal Entryway: One front door was typically used as the formal entrance, reserved for guests and special occasions. The other door served as an everyday entrance. This division allowed homeowners to create a clear distinction between the formal and informal use of the house.
- Weather: If you lived somewhere really hot or cold, two doors could come in handy. You could keep one door closed to keep your house’s temperature stable. It’s a bit like opening a window slightly to let some air in without letting all your heat out during winter.
- Cultural Significance: In some cultures, two front doors held symbolic or cultural meaning. For example, in Chinese architecture, a dual-door entryway often represented balance and harmony. In other cultures, it might have had specific religious or superstitious connotations.
- Two-In-One House: In some city areas, a house might’ve been built for two families, not one. So, each front door led to a completely different home inside the same building.
- Design Aesthetics: Architecturally, double front doors enhanced the symmetry and aesthetics of the house’s façade, especially in grand or historic homes.
- Status and Wealth: Having two front doors was sometimes a status symbol, indicating that the homeowner could afford a larger and more intricate house with multiple entrances.
As architectural styles evolved and modern convenience became a priority, the practice of having two front doors became less common. Today, single front doors are more typical in residential construction. However, in some historic or period homes, you may still find the original double entrance, serving as a reminder of past architectural traditions and cultural practices.
Front doors generally open inwards for several reasons:
- Safety: Inward opening doors provide better security as they are more difficult for intruders to force open. The hinges are on the inside, making it harder to remove the door from its frame.
- Space Efficiency: Inward opening doors require less space on the outside, allowing for more efficient use of the area. This can be beneficial for narrow hallways or buildings located close to sidewalks or roads where an outward opening door might obstruct the passage.
It’s worth noting that there are also situations where front doors open outward, such as in some commercial buildings, public spaces, or emergency exits, where specific safety regulations or crowd flow come into play.
There are many ways to decorate double front doors:
- Paint and Finish: Pick a door color that goes well with your house. Bold colors stand out, while neutral colors have a classic look. Use weather-resistant paint to protect your doors from rain and sun.
- Planters: Put big planters with colorful flowers, bushes, or little trees next to your front doors. This adds color and makes your entrance more inviting. Pick planters that fit your house style.
- Outdoor Lighting: Add lights like sconces or lanterns near your front doors. Good lighting makes your house look better and keeps it safe.
- Door Hardware: Change your door handles, knockers, and hinges for a new look. Pick finishes and styles that match your overall design. Rugs and Doormats: Put a nice outdoor rug or doormat by your entrance. Choose one that can handle weather and lots of people walking on it.
- Window Treatments: If your front doors have windows, add blinds, curtains, or decorative film for privacy and style.
- Seasonal Decor: Change decorations for different seasons and holidays, like pumpkins for fall, wreaths and lights for winter, or flowers for spring and summer.
- Wreaths: Wreaths are a popular decoration you can change for seasons or holidays. Use a green wreath for spring, a beachy one for summer, and a festive one for holidays.
- Address Plaque: Put an address sign near your front doors to help people find your house and add style. Outdoor Artwork: Hang outdoor art or sculptures near your front doors for a unique look.
- Symmetry: When decorating, use matching items on both sides of the door for a balanced look.
- Personal Touch: Add personal touches like a custom door mat, family name sign, or family crest to make your front doors special.
- Maintain and Clean: Keep your doors and the area around them clean. A nice entrance makes a better impression.
Your double front doors are the main part of your home’s outside look, so make sure your decorations show your style and fit your house. Try different ideas, and change things up to keep your home looking fresh and welcoming.
In Florida and other areas where hurricanes are common, front doors usually open outwards for practical reasons:
- Safety in Storms: Doors that open outwards are less likely to get blown open or damaged by strong winds during a hurricane. Doors that open inwards might get damaged because of the pressure differences caused by severe weather.
- Easy to Leave the House: If a storm causes a lot of debris or flooding, it can block doors that open inwards, making it hard to leave the house quickly if needed. Doors that open outwards won’t get blocked this way, so you can get out easily and safely.
- Keeps Water Out: Outward-opening doors are designed in a way that makes it harder for water to get in during a heavy rain or flood. They make a better seal against the door frame.
- Saves Energy: Outward-opening doors can create a tight seal that keeps the hot, humid air of Florida outside and the cool, air-conditioned air inside. This can make the house more energy-efficient. It’s important to remember that places like Florida where hurricanes happen often have rules about how to build houses to make them more likely to survive severe weather events.
Doors that open outwards are just one of these design features that help protect both the buildings and the people living in them during a hurricane. In most other locations that aren’t prone to have hurricanes, inward opening doors are more common.
The choice between fiberglass and steel entry doors in Houston depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Here’s a comparison to help you make an informed decision:
Fiberglass Entry Doors:
Appearance: Fiberglass doors can mimic the look of real wood and come in a variety of styles and finishes. They can be painted or stained to match your home’s aesthetics.
Insulation: Fiberglass doors are energy-efficient and provide better insulation compared to steel doors.
Durability: Fiberglass doors are resistant to rust, dents, and corrosion. They are less likely to show wear and tear over time. Maintenance: They require relatively low maintenance, such as occasional cleaning and possibly re-painting or restaining over the years.
Cost: Fiberglass doors are generally more expensive than basic steel doors, but they provide good value for their durability and energy efficiency.
Steel Entry Doors:
Security: Steel doors are known for their strength and security. They provide a high level of protection.
Durability: Steel doors can withstand harsh weather conditions and are less likely to warp or rot.
Affordability: Steel doors are usually more budget-friendly than fiberglass doors, making them a cost-effective option.
Maintenance: They are low-maintenance, although regular painting and maintenance are needed to prevent rust and corrosion.
Appearance: Steel doors have a more industrial look compared to fiberglass or wood but can be painted to match your home’s style.
In summary, if you prioritize aesthetics and insulation, fiberglass entry doors might be a better choice. On the other hand, if security, durability, and cost-effectiveness are your primary concerns, steel entry doors could be the better option. Consider your specific needs and budget, and factor in the climate and weather conditions in your area when making your decision.
Painting a front door red is a tradition that carries various cultural, historical, and symbolic meanings. The choice of a red front door goes beyond personal preference and can hold specific significance depending on the cultural and regional context. Here are some reasons why people opt to paint their front doors red:
Symbol of Welcome: Red is often associated with hospitality and warmth. A red front door is seen as a way to welcome guests, creating a sense of friendliness and openness.
Historical Significance: In early American history, a red door served as a symbol of a safe haven along the Underground Railroad, indicating that a house was a secure place for escaped slaves.
Good Luck: Red is considered a color that brings good luck and wards off evil spirits in some cultures. Painting the front door red is believed to protect the home and its occupants.
Bold and Striking: Red is a bold and attention-grabbing color. A red front door can make a statement and draw the eye to the entrance, becoming a focal point for the house.
Cultural Traditions: In Feng Shui, a traditional Chinese practice emphasizing harmony and balance in the home, a red door is believed to bring prosperity and positive energy.
Historic and Colonial Homes: Many historic and colonial homes feature red front doors as part of their architectural and design traditions. This choice maintains the historical accuracy of the house’s exterior.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, painting a front door red can simply be a matter of individual taste and style. Some people appreciate the way red complements their house’s exterior or adds a vibrant touch to the façade.
While red is a popular choice, there are numerous other colors available, and homeowners may select colors with personal meanings or that match their overall color scheme. When choosing a paint color for a front door, it’s essential to consider personal preferences and the specific message or atmosphere one wishes to convey to visitors and passersby.
Although most residential front doors in Houston open inward, some swing outward for practical and architectural reasons. Here are some of the reasons why you might have a front door that opens outward:
Space Constraints: In homes with limited interior space near the entryway, an outward-swinging door can be more practical since it doesn’t take up valuable space when opened. This design ensures that furniture, fixtures, and objects inside the house don’t obstruct the door’s path.
Emergency Concerns: Certain building codes and safety regulations require that exterior bedroom or sleeping area doors swing outward, making it easier for occupants to exit the building in case of an emergency.
Climate Considerations: In areas prone to severe weather conditions, such as hurricanes or high winds, outward-swinging doors can be more weather-resistant and provide better protection during storms.
Historical or Architectural Style: In certain historical buildings or architectural styles, outward-swinging doors might be part of the original design or period-correct restoration, reflecting the aesthetics and building practices of the time period.
Accessibility: Modern accessible design standards may recommend outward-swinging doors to accommodate individuals with mobility issues, providing more space for wheelchair users and people with assistive devices to enter and exit.
While outward-swinging doors can be beneficial in certain situations, they also have some disadvantages, such as security concerns. Ultimately, the choice of door swing direction should consider the unique needs and circumstances of the home or building, local building codes, and safety requirements. So while most residential front doors swing inward, outward-swinging doors are common in settings where they are more practical or necessary.
Securing double front doors is important for both safety and peace of mind. Here are steps you can take to secure double front doors effectively:
Quality Locks: Invest in high-quality deadbolt locks for both doors, with a one-inch throw. Look for locks rated as Grade 1, the highest residential lock rating. Reinforce door frames and strike plates to prevent kick-ins.
Security Bars: Install security bars or braces on the inside of both doors to reinforce resistance against forced entry.
Keyless Entry Systems: Consider installing a keyless entry system with keypad access. This allows you to set unique entry codes for family members or trusted individuals, and change them as needed.
Reinforce Hinges: Use hinge pins that cannot be easily removed, like non-removable hinge pins or security studs, to prevent unauthorized access.
Security Cameras: Install security cameras near the entryway as a visible deterrent and a way to record any suspicious activity.
Peepholes: Install peepholes on both doors to see who is at the door before opening it.
Secure Glass Panels: Reinforce glass panels with security film or laminated glass to make it more difficult for intruders to break in.
Alarm System: Consider a monitored home security system with sensors on both doors for immediate alerts and deterrence.
Lighting: Install motion-activated lighting around the entryway to discourage potential intruders.
Security Consultation: Consult a security professional or locksmith for personalized recommendations based on your needs.
Communication System: If your home has an intercom or communication system, use it to verify the identity of visitors before opening the doors.
Secure Patio or Sliding Doors: Ensure sliding or patio doors near the double front doors are also secured with quality locks and reinforced glass.
Home Automation: Consider home automation features to control and monitor security systems remotely using a smartphone app.
Remember that security is multi-layered. Combining multiple security measures greatly enhances the safety of your double front doors and your home overall.
When it comes to securing your front door, a deadbolt lock is often the go-to choice for maximum security. Specifically, a Grade 1 deadbolt lock is recommended for its strength and resistance against forced entry. To help you make an informed decision, here are some key features and considerations that contribute to a deadbolt lock’s security:
Grade 1 Rating: Deadbolts are commonly rated based on their security level, with Grade 1 being the highest rating. These locks undergo rigorous testing for durability and resistance to attacks, making them the optimal choice for bolstering front door security.
One-Inch Throw: The throw refers to the part of the deadbolt that extends into the door frame. Opting for a deadbolt with a one-inch throw provides enhanced security as it penetrates deep into the door frame, making it significantly harder to kick or force the door open.
Reinforced Strike Plate: The strike plate is the metal plate on the door frame into which the deadbolt extends when locked. Look for a deadbolt with a reinforced strike plate and longer screws (around 3 inches) to fortify the door against forced entry attempts.
Key Control: Consider choosing a deadbolt lock that incorporates key control features, allowing authorized individuals to duplicate keys. This feature ensures better control over the number of key copies and helps to prevent unauthorized duplications.
Double Cylinder Deadbolt: If your front door has nearby windows or glass, a double cylinder deadbolt is worth considering. This type of deadbolt requires a key to unlock from both the inside and outside, providing an extra layer of security by preventing access through broken glass.
Smart Locks: Modern smart deadbolts offer advanced security and convenience features such as remote locking and unlocking, temporary access codes, and smartphone control. Ensure that the smart lock you choose is from a reputable manufacturer with robust security measures to safeguard against digital threats.
High-Quality Materials: Opt for deadbolts made from durable, high-quality materials like solid steel or brass. These materials offer superior resistance to tampering and ensure the lock’s longevity.
Regular Maintenance: Even the most secure lock requires proper maintenance to provide optimal security. Regularly inspect your deadbolt lock to ensure it is in good working condition and promptly replace it if any damage or wear is detected.
Remember, a robust deadbolt lock is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to achieving comprehensive home security. Factors such as the door’s strength, the quality of the door frame, the presence of reinforced glass, and additional security measures for windows all contribute to an effective security system. To maximize security, consider implementing multiple layers of protection, including motion-activated lighting, security cameras, and an alarm system, in conjunction with a high-quality deadbolt lock.
Front doors are available in various materials, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. When selecting the material for your front door, factors like aesthetics, budget, security, and climate should be considered. Here are the most commonly used materials for front doors:
Wood: Wooden front doors offer a classic and traditional look. They come in different wood species and can be stained or painted to match your home’s style. Wood doors provide excellent insulation but require regular maintenance to prevent damage from warping, cracking, or rot.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass doors mimic the look of wood but are more durable and low-maintenance. They are energy-efficient, resistant to rot, rust, and termites, and can withstand various weather conditions without warping.
Steel: Steel doors are highly secure and deter forced entry. They require minimal maintenance but can be susceptible to dents, scratches, and rust if not properly maintained. Steel doors are a popular choice for homeowners prioritizing security.
Aluminum: Aluminum doors are lightweight and resistant to corrosion. They are commonly used in contemporary and modern designs due to their sleek appearance. While aluminum doors are durable and low-maintenance, they may not provide the same level of security or insulation as steel or wood.
Composite: Composite doors combine materials like wood and fiberglass to offer the aesthetics of wood with the durability and low maintenance of fiberglass. They are energy-efficient and effectively resist weather and pests.
Glass: Some front doors feature glass panels or are made entirely of glass to provide natural light and a modern look. However, solid doors offer better insulation and security. Reinforced glass and proper sealing can enhance security and energy efficiency.
The choice of material depends on your priorities, such as aesthetics, security, energy efficiency, and maintenance requirements. Consider the climate in your area and the style of your home when selecting the most suitable material for your front door. Remember, you can enhance the security and insulation of your front door by adding appropriate locks, weatherstripping, and additional security features.
Front Door Questions:
Our front doors are sold as exterior residential doors, but customers may use them for their interiors if they wish. We also have interior barn doors.
Lead time for our ready-made products, including samples and hardware, is next day.
Our wood doors currently have a lead time of 4 weeks, and our fiberglass doors are 5 weeks. Feel free to contact us for updates on our lead time.
Be sure to first take all necessary measurements. Then once you have removed your old slab door or pre-hung unit, prep the doorway, and install your new GlassCraft Direct door. GlassCraft Direct recommends getting a professional installer for the less-experienced handyperson.
A door jamb is the top and 2 side posts of a doorway. For more terminology, please visit the Door Terminology page under the Resources tab.
If a customer wants a new jamb, threshold, etc. in addition to a new door, we recommend they purchase a pre-hung door. If a customer only needs the door itself, then GlassCraft Direct recommends a slab door.
Yes, we do offer double doors. Simply email info@glasscraft.com with the door you are interested in.
It is entirely up to the customer, however, some of our doors are available both in wood and fiberglass, though with the respective material’s finish options. It also depends on the type of climate in which you live, among other factors.
Weight varies depending on slab vs. pre-hung unit orders, however, typically weighs between 100-150 pounds for a single door.
Grab a tape measure and measure the bottom and top, and sides of your door. Then measure the thickness of the door, as well as the bore hole backset and thickness of the jamb if you’re getting a pre-hung unit.
GlassCraft Direct’s highest privacy-rated glass are our Cloud frosted glass and Rain textured glass options, both rated at 9.
Brickmould is a decorative moulding used to trim the inside edge of a door frame to conceal the seam between the door frame and the wall edges.
GlassCraft Direct does a 3-coat system when we finish our doors. First, we prime and stain it, then we go in with topcoat that provides UV protection.
The distance between the holes drilled for hardware and the edge of the door. The standard for residential doors is 2-3/8 inches.
Finished Fiberglass Doors have a Limited Warranty of 5 years, Unfinished Fiberglass Premium Doors have a Limited Warranty of 5 years, and Unfinished Fiberglass PRO Doors have a Limited Warranty of 5 years.
We do not recommend that customers add a storm door to our GlassCraft Direct doors because they can damage and/or ruin the door. It also voids our warranty.
GlassCraft Direct offers standard 6-8 doors, as well as 8-foot-tall doors.
Barn Door Questions:
It’s important to consider overlap with your door and the opening. We consider a standard of 2” overlap on each side of the door from the door opening width.
We typically recommend a 2″ overlay on each side of your opening to act as a light, sound, and privacy barrier. This will make your door a total of 4″ wider than the opening and 2″ taller than the opening. You can also make the door just an inch taller if you are tight on clearance. Keep in mind that you will lift your door a 1/2″ off the floor to allow it to roll. For a cased opening it is most popular and cosmetically appealing to make the door to cover all the casing. You will measure from outside of trim to trim for the width and from the floor to the top of the casing for the height. Our doors are built on the inch so round up to the nearest inch if the exact measurement is unavailable.
Mounting your track to a header not only gives a more finished look but adds additional support to helping disperse the weight of the system and prevents crushing of the drywall on large or heavy door applications.
For a double barn door installation, you will need two of our doors and two of our hardware kits. One door gets one hardware kit. The rails from each of the two kits meet in the center above your wall opening.
All of our hardware kits support doors up to 220 lbs. All of our barn doors weigh under 220lbs.
A minimum clearance of 6-1/2” is required from the top of the door to the ceiling to accommodate the track/rail and rolling hardware. The top of the door should be level or above the frame opening.
We do not prep the door for the hardware. Each barn door installation is different and we allow the customer to choose where they would like the hardware to be placed onto the door. We do however prep the door for our inset vista handle. If you order the vista handle for either the front or back of the door, we will rout the hole into the door for you.
The 2 panel refers to the design of the door and DOES NOT mean you are getting two doors. For example, the 2 Panel Chevron barn door design has the chevron design divided into two panels. If you are wanting two doors, you will need to select the quantity of the door as “2”. By selecting 2 for the quantity you will receive two of everything which will make a double door unit.
Yes, we do carry bypass hardware! Our bypass hardware comes in a kit of 5 bypass brackets. For a Bypass Double door installation, you will need 2 doors, 2 rolling door hardware kits plus 1 bypass rail bracket kit. On our website you would build your door and hardware choices and select the quantity as “2”. By selecting 2 for the quantity you will receive two of everything which will make a double door unit. Then you would add the bypass bracket kit in your cart. That will give you everything you need for a bypass door installation.
All of our hardware kits include two rollers, one pre-drilled rail, two stoppers, screws & nuts, two anti-jump disc, C floor glider and installation guide. Our hardware kits come with a choice of a 78-3/4” or 100” long rail. For the 78-3/4” we recommend using on doors up to 36” wide. For the 100” rail we recommend using on doors larger than 36” wide up to 48” wide. If you need a larger rail for a door larger than 48” wide, we offer the rails separate for purchase to extend the length of the rail.
We offer standard door sizes, but we can also custom size doors for special projects. If you do not see the size you need, feel free to contact us so we can double check we can produce the size you desire.
Yes, we do offer color samples for all of our finish options.
Yes, we do! OurAntique door collection offers one-of-a-kind mid to late 1800 French Colonial doors from Egypt. Each door is beautiful, unique and a one of a kind piece. We also offer a collection of Live Edge wood slabs that can be used as a unique barn door or a table top for your home!
To make a barn door, you can follow these steps:
- Measure all the doorways, stairs, hallways that lead to the room you’re going to install the door. Then measure the width and height of the door opening where you will install your barn doors.
- Cut the wood to the desired dimensions using a circular or miter saw.
- Stick and secure these pieces together using wood glue and screws.
- Add any desired design elements, such as cross bars or diagonal braces, to the door. You can also paint or stain it to match your home decor.
- Install the barn door hardware, such as the track, rollers, and handle, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Attach the door to the track and ensure it slides smoothly. Make any necessary adjustments as needed.
Barn doors are still in style, and it’s easy to see why:
- Practicality: Beyond their good looks, barn doors are pretty handy. Need to create a private space, divide a room, or hide a messy closet? A barn door has got you covered. Plus, their slide mechanism is a breeze to use.
- Space-Smart: Because they slide along the wall, barn doors save you precious floor space. For those with smaller homes or rooms, these doors are a real lifesaver.
- Rustic Charm: The simple yet charming look of barn doors is timeless. These doors, with their classic, adaptable design, look good in just about any setting – be it farmhouse-themed or a slick modern loft.
- Custom-Made: You get to call the shots with barn doors. There are tons of colors, materials, styles, and designs to choose from. You can make it fit your home down to a tee.
- Versatility: Barn doors aren’t picky. They look good in homes, offices, restaurants – you name it. This adaptability is part of why they’ve stayed popular for so long.
- Style Statement: A barn door is more than just a door – it’s a style statement. Installing one in your space isn’t just practical; it’s a way to add character and a visual point of interest.
In short, barn doors have a lot going for them. They’re a blend of style, practicality, and versatility – the very reasons why so many people like them.
Securing barn doors is a cinch with the right hardware and mechanisms. It all depends on the door’s style and purpose. Check out some popular ways to lock barn doors:
- Simple Latch: Many barn doors come with a simple latch, like a sliding bolt or something more ornate. Just slide the bolt into the catch or bracket on the door frame, and you’re good to go.
- Hasp and Padlock: For extra security, add a hasp, made of metal with holes, to the door. Lock it up tight with a padlock through the hasp’s holes.
- Specific Barn Door Locks: These locks are tailor-made for barn doors. You can choose from options like a hook and eye latch, or perhaps a lock that works from both sides of the door.
- Handles with Locks: Some barn door handles have their own locks or key-operated mechanisms. They’re a handy, secure way to lock up.
- Smart Locks: Want a touch of tech? Give smart locks a go. Control them remotely using a smartphone app or keypad entry for convenience and safety.
- Mortise Lock: In some cases, barn doors have mortise locks, recessed into the door’s edge. You’ll need a key to operate these.
Ultimately, your choice of lock depends on your needs, the type of barn door, and your security and convenience preferences. Be sure to pick a lock that suits your door’s design and intended purpose. Click here to learn more about our barn door privacy lock.
If you’re looking to stop your barn door from swinging, there are many ways you can do it, based on your door type and what you need:
- Floor Guides: Often used with sliding barn doors, these guides keep the bottom of the door steady, stopping it from swinging outward.
- Anti-Swing Kits: These are specialized kits designed specifically to keep barn doors still. With stabilizer rods or floor guides included, these kits are a solid tool to stop your door from swinging when it’s not being used.
- Door Stops: Easily limit your door’s movement by installing door stops. You can put them on the floor or the wall to block the door’s swing path when it’s opening.
- Hooks or Straps on Wall: Hooks or straps can be fixed onto the wall near where the door opens. Then you can hook the door onto them to keep the door from swinging.
- Latch or Lock: If your barn door has a latch or lock, you can partially close the door and engage the lock. This won’t completely stop the movement, but it limits the swing.
- Magnetic Catches: Placing magnetic catches on the door and the wall will hold the door in place when it’s open, meaning no swinging. They have a strong hold and are easy to disengage when needed.
- Draft Stoppers: Another great option is to use a draft stopper – you can purchase one premade or make one yourself – and place it at the door’s base to help stabilize it and keep it from swinging.
- Track Adjustment: If your barn door slides on a track, make sure the track isn’t too loose. A loose track will let the door sway, so adjust it correctly for stability.
What method works best for you depends on the type of barn door, where it’s located, and its style. When picking a solution to stop your door from swinging, remember to keep safety and functionality in mind.
Sure, you can put barn doors in bathrooms, but whether they make sense for you depends on a few things:
- Space and Layout: Barn doors slide along the wall, meaning they don’t eat up space like regular doors that swing open. So if your bathroom is on the smaller side or there’s not much room for a door to swing, barn doors could be a good solution.
- Privacy: A major concern with barn doors for bathrooms is that they leave gaps along the sides when they’re closed – not great for privacy. If you’re looking at barn doors, choose a design that has minimal gaps or add extra stuff like a privacy lock or seal.
- Looks: Barn doors have a unique flair that can give your bathroom a style boost. With an array of designs, materials, and finishes, you can find a barn door that complements your bathroom’s decor.
- Installation: Make sure the barn door is installed correctly for smooth and secure functioning. If you’re not comfortable installing it yourself, hire a professional to avoid issues like poor alignment or tricky sliding.
- Ventilation: Barn doors aren’t as airtight as regular doors, which can be beneficial if your bathroom needs good airflow. On the downside, this may diminish sound insulation and odor containment.
- Maintenance: Depending on what they’re made of, barn doors might need regular upkeep like cleaning and resealing, particularly due to the dampness in bathrooms.
- Cost: Barn doors can vary in price, taking into account the hardware and installation costs. Keep your budget in mind when deciding on a door type.
In a nutshell, barn doors can work well in bathrooms, especially tinier ones or if you’re after a distinct look. But, pay attention to aspects like privacy, ventilation, maintenance, and cost before going in for a barn door.
In theory, you could make a barn door out of almost any door, but there are a few practical things you need to consider:
- Size and Weight: Barn doors are generally bigger and bulkier than your regular inside doors. Make sure the door you pick is the right size and weight for your purpose. Doors that are too heavy could strain the sliding hardware and be tough to move.
- Compatible Hardware: Barn doors need specific gear like a sliding track, rollers, and brackets. Ensure the door you’re planning to convert can handle this equipment. If the door is not intended for a sliding system, you might need to modify the door or get extra hardware.
- Design and Style: People usually opt for barn doors due to their rustic or farmhouse-style appeal. Even though you could use any door style, think if the door’s look suits the overall decor of the room.
- Durability: Barn doors can take a beating more than normal inside doors. Make sure the door you choose, its material, and finish can stand up to where it will be used.
- Installation: Installing barn doors the right way is key for them to function and be safe. If you’re not comfortable installing doors, it’s best to ask for professional help.
- Budget: Take into account the cost of turning a regular door into a barn door, including the hardware and any changes you need to make.
In short, you can change most types of doors into barn doors with some tweaks. But, it’s important to check the door’s size, weight, style, and how well it will work as a barn door. Also, make sure you have all the necessary hardware and know-how for the install, and think about how it will look in your room.
Barn doors are trendy because of their unique look and how they save space, but like everything, they have their good and bad points. Let’s have a look.
Barn Door Pros:
- Save Space: Barn doors slide across the wall instead of swinging open like regular doors. This is great for small rooms or places where there’s not much room for a door to swing.
- Stylish: Barn doors can bring a rustic or modern vibe to a room, making a stylish statement.
- Personalizable: They come in all sorts of designs, materials, and colors, so you can pick one that matches your room’s decor.
- Easy to Use: Barn doors are usually easy to open and close for people of all ages since they don’t have knobs or handles to turn.
- Ventilation: Because barn doors don’t close as tight as regular doors, they can let more air flow through rooms that need good ventilation.
Barn Door Cons:
- Privacy Might Be an Issue: Barn doors often leave some gaps on the sides when they’re closed, meaning they might not be completely private. This can be a problem for rooms like bathrooms or bedrooms.
- Noise and Smell: Since barn doors don’t close as tight, they might not keep sound or odor in the room as well as regular doors.
- Installation Can Be Tough: It’s crucial to install barn doors correctly for them to work smoothly. If not installed right, they can be tough to slide, or end up crooked.
- Price: The cost of barn doors can be higher than traditional doors, taking into account the hardware and installation costs.
- Design Match: The rustic or modern look of barn doors might not suit all interior styles, potentially not fitting in certain decor themes.
In a nutshell, barn doors save space, look stylish, and allow for good air flow. However, they might impact privacy, require some effort to install, and not fit all room decors. When thinking of getting barn doors, weigh these points against your room requirements and what you like or don’t like.
Barn doors can be used in bedrooms, but whether they’re a good choice depends on some things and what you need. Here are some points to think about:
Good Things About Barn Doors in Bedrooms:
- Save Space: Barn doors slide on the wall instead of swinging open. This means they take up less space, which is great for small bedrooms or tight layouts.
- Look Stylish: Barn doors can add a unique and fashionable touch to a bedroom, making them a cool design feature. Customizable: They come in all sorts of designs, materials, and colors, so you can pick a barn door that matches your bedroom’s style.
- Easy to Use: Barn doors are usually easy to open and close for people of all ages since they don’t have handles or knobs to turn.
Not-So-Good Things About Barn Doors in Bedrooms:
- Noise and Smell: Barn doors don’t close as tight as regular doors, so they might not keep noise or smells out as much as other doors.
- Noise and Smell: Since barn doors don’t close as tight, they might not keep sound or odor in the room as well as regular doors.
- Light Control: If you need a dark room for sleeping, barn doors might not be the best choice because light can get through the gaps around the edges.
In the end, barn doors can work well in bedrooms as long as you consider a few things. They’re perfect for saving space and adding style to a room. But if privacy, soundproofing, and light control are important, you might need to do some extra work to address these issues or look at other door types.
Barn doors can be more expensive than standard swinging doors, but the cost difference can vary depending on several factors, like the materials, design, size, and hardware used. Here are some points to keep in mind:
- Materials: What the barn door is made of can affect the cost. They can be made from different materials, like solid wood, engineered wood, metal, glass, or a mix of these. Solid wood doors often cost more than engineered wood or metal doors.
- Design and Customization: How complex the design is and how much you want to customize it can change the price. More detailed designs, custom finishes, and special features might mean a higher cost.
- Size: Bigger barn doors usually cost more than smaller ones because they need more materials and work to make them.
- Hardware: The type and quality of the hardware used for sliding the door can also make a difference in the overall cost. Better quality, long-lasting hardware can cost more but will work more smoothly and reliably.
- Installation: If you need a professional to install the barn door, that will add to the total cost. How much it costs to install can change based on how complicated the work is.
- Extra Features: Some barn doors have more features, like built-in mirrors or windows, which can make the cost higher.
Keep these points in mind when figuring out how much a barn door costs.
Sliding doors and barn doors both move side to side on a track, but their design, use, and looks are different.
Sliding Door:
- Design: Sliding doors come in many styles, like modern, traditional, and contemporary designs. They usually have a clean and simple appearance.
- Functionality: Sliding doors are flexible and can be used inside or outside. You can find them in homes, offices, and commercial spaces. They can be used as patio doors, closet doors, room dividers, and more.
- Hardware: Sliding doors often have hidden tracks and rollers, which you can’t see when the door is closed. The hardware is usually made to be not noticeable.
- Privacy: Sliding doors tend to give more privacy than barn doors because they close tighter. This makes them a good option for bedrooms, bathrooms, and other private areas.
- Materials: Sliding doors can be made from different materials, like glass, wood, aluminum, and composite materials.
Barn Door:
- Noise and Smell: Barn doors don’t close as tight as regular doors, so they might not keep noise or smells out as much as other doors.
- Design: Barn doors usually have a rustic or farmhouse look with visible hardware, like the track and rollers mounted on the outside of the door. They’re known for their unique and decorative style.
- Hardware: Barn doors have hardware you can see, which adds to their special look.
- Privacy: Barn doors might not give as much privacy as sliding doors because they can leave gaps on the sides when closed. You can add extra hardware to make barn doors more private.
- Materials: Barn doors are often made from wood, or other rustic materials. Their design typically focuses on a more natural and aged look.
In short, the main differences between sliding doors and barn doors are their style, where they’re used, how the hardware looks, and how much privacy they give. Barn doors are often chosen for their unique style and decorative value in indoor spaces.
Barn doors and pocket doors are types of sliding doors. They’re different in terms of how they work, how they look, and where they’re usually used. Let’s look at how barn doors and pocket doors are different:
Barn Doors:
- How They Work: Barn doors slide on a track that’s fixed to the wall above the door. They move from side to side and you can always see them, whether they’re open or closed.
- How They Look: Barn doors often have a rustic or farmhouse style and are loved for their decorative appeal. They often have visible features, like the track, rollers, and handles, which are part of their appeal.
- Where They’re Used: Barn doors are mainly used as doors inside the home. They’re often used in living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, and other areas where their design can be a standout feature.
- Space: While barn doors can save more space than a swing door, they do need more space on one side of the door for the track.
- Privacy: Barn doors might not give you full privacy, as they typically leave gaps at the sides when shut. You can add more hardware or seals to increase privacy.
Pocket Doors:
- How They Work: When opened, pocket doors slide into a hidden pocket or space inside the wall. When they’re open, they’re entirely hidden inside the wall, which is why they’re called “pocket” doors.
- How They Look: Pocket doors have a more stealthy design. When open, you can’t see their tracks, rollers, or handles. They have a minimal look and don’t grab your attention.
- Where They’re Used: Pocket doors are versatile and can be used in homes and businesses. They’re often picked because they save space and can create a smooth transition between rooms.
- Space: Pocket doors save space in a smart way because they don’t need wall space alongside the door. The wall pocket acts as the space for the door when it’s open.
- Privacy: Pocket doors, when shut, are generally more private than barn doors. They make a more close-fitting seal and effectively block sound and light.
In short, barn doors are known for their decorative, visible sliding mechanisms, making a statement in indoor spaces. They’re often used in areas where their design is appreciated. Pocket doors, on the other hand, hide within the wall and are chosen for their space-saving and functional benefits, making them a practical choice for various indoor settings. The decision between the two depends on what you prefer in terms of design, and what the specific requirements of your space are.
Barn doors and French doors are two different kinds of doors. They each have their own design, how they work, and where they’re used. Here’s how barn doors and French doors are different:
Barn Doors:
- Design and Look: Barn doors often have a rustic or farmhouse-like design. They’re recognized by their side-to-side sliding operation and their visible features, like a track, rollers, and handles, usually fixed to the wall above the door frame. Barn doors are loved for their unique and decorative look.
- How They Work: Barn doors slide from side to side along a visible track. Even when they’re fully opened or shut, you can still see them. They’re known for their smooth sliding action.
- Where They’re Used: Barn doors are mainly used as doors inside, chosen for their appealing look. They’re commonly used in living spaces, dining rooms, kitchens, and other areas where their design can be a standout feature.
- Space: Barn doors can save more space than a swing door as they don’t require free space for the door to swing. But, they do need wall space on one side of the door for the track.
- Privacy: Barn doors may not give full privacy, as they often leave gaps on the sides when shut. If you need more privacy, you can add more hardware or seals.
French Doors:
- Design and Look: French doors have a classic and stylish design. They’re made up of two full-length panels that swing open and have glass panels or window inserts for glass. French doors are known for their timeless and refined look.
- How They Work: French doors swing open and shut on hinges like traditional doors. Depending on how they’re designed and installed, they can swing either inward or outward.
- Where They’re Used: French doors are flexible and can be used as interior doors, patio doors, or exterior doors. They’re often chosen because they let natural light in and can create an open, welcoming transition between rooms or between indoors and outdoors.
- Space: Because French doors swing open, they need enough clearance for the door to swing. This means they need floor and wall space on both sides of the door, which could limit their use in small or tight spaces.
- Privacy: If you have the right window coverings or frosted glass, French doors can provide better privacy. However, they might not provide the same level of privacy as solid doors.
In short, barn doors are known for their decorative, visible sliding hardware, making a statement in interior spaces. They’re often used for their decorative appeal. On the other hand, French doors are classic and elegant doors that swing open. They’re often chosen for their ability to let in natural light and create a sense of openness. The choice between the two depends on your design preferences and the specific needs of your space.