How to Build Double Swinging Barn Doors
Building a captivating set of double swinging barn doors is a splendid way to enrich your home with both form and function. While the concept may sound a bit daunting at first, you’ll find that knowing how to build double swinging barn doors doesn’t require an engineering degree or decades of carpentry experience—just the right tools, the right materials, and the right plan. Once completed, these barn doors can swing both inward and outward, making them ideal for doorways where you might want easy two-way access, such as kitchens, living rooms, or even home offices.
Why do so many homeowners and designers love double swinging barn doors? It’s simple: they exude rustic charm while still fitting neatly into modern aesthetics. The natural wood textures, sturdy hardware, and unique movement create an eye-catching statement piece that can instantly transform any room. Add in the flexibility of being able to push the doors either way, and you’ve got a winning combination of practicality and style.
Understanding Double Swinging Barn Doors
Double swinging barn doors are basically two door panels hinged on opposite sides of the doorway. Unlike traditional single-direction doors, these barn doors can swing both ways, offering greater accessibility and a touch of elegance. You will sometimes see them referred to as “saloon-style” doors, particularly when they’re smaller, but their larger counterparts are simply known as double swinging barn doors.
Mechanics and Functionality
- Dual Hinges: Each door panel typically uses specialized hinges called “double-action spring hinges” that allow the door to swing inwards and outwards.
- Counterbalance: When properly balanced, each door returns to a neutral position, reducing the chance of accidental slams.
- Space-Saving Advantage: They require minimal clearance on either side—an invaluable feature in tight areas.
Aesthetic Appeal
When you know how to build double swinging barn doors well, you gain not just an additional functional entrance but a piece of décor that seamlessly blends with various interior styles. From sleek, modern lofts with metal accents to cozy, rustic farmhouses awash in reclaimed wood, these swinging doors fit right in. Embrace the natural grain of high-quality wood or paint them with bold colors for a chic statement. The possibilities are endless.
Essential Materials and Tools
Before you get started, it’s crucial to gather all the essentials so you won’t be scrambling to find missing items in the midst of a critical build step. At this stage, the best approach is to list everything you might need and ensure you have them all at your workspace.
Primary Materials
- Wood Boards: Choose sturdy wood such as pine, cedar, or oak, ensuring each board is straight and free from large knots or cracks.
- Hinges (Double-Action): These are specialized hinges that allow your barn doors to swing both ways.
- Fasteners: Wood screws, nails, or a combination of both—choose based on your wood thickness and structural needs.
- Panels (If Using): Plywood or tongue-and-groove planks for a more decorative look.
Hardware
- Handles and Pulls: Select an option that complements the overall décor.
- Latch (Optional): If you want the doors to lock in place or stay securely shut.
Tools Checklist
- Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are the foundation of success.
- Carpenter’s Square: Ensures precise 90-degree corners and helps maintain a balanced build.
- Circular Saw or Miter Saw: For cutting boards and panels to exact dimensions.
- Drill and Bits: Pre-drilling screw holes prevents wood splitting.
- Sander or Sandpaper: Smooths out rough surfaces.
- Safety Gear: Goggles, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself from debris.
Collecting these materials upfront sets the stage for a smoother, safer project. Being well-prepared also helps maintain momentum, letting you focus on actually building your double swinging barn doors without interruption.
Planning Your Door Dimensions
Planning is everything when learning how to build double swinging barn doors. If your measurements are off, the doors might not close properly, or they could rub against the floor, creating unsightly wear and tear over time.
Key Measurement Factors
- Door Width: Start by measuring the width of the doorway, then divide by two. Add an extra inch or two to each door panel’s width to account for overlaps if desired.
- Door Height: Measure from the floor to the top of the door frame. Subtract a small clearance—usually ½ inch—to prevent the door from scraping along the floor.
- Thickness: Barn doors can be thicker than standard interior doors. Ensure your chosen thickness suits your hinges and frame.
Balancing Aesthetics with Practicality
- Proportion: The door panels should appear balanced relative to wall space. Oversized panels can dominate a small room, whereas too-small panels look awkward.
- Swing Clearance: Double-check that the swinging arc of each door won’t collide with furniture, light fixtures, or other obstructions.
- Frame Support: If your wall studs aren’t ideally placed, you may need additional support or a header board to securely mount the hinges.
By mapping out these factors and noting them on a simple diagram or blueprint, you’ll avoid frustrating miscalculations. A well-thought-out plan is the stepping stone to building gorgeous, functional double swinging barn doors.
Preparing the Workspace
A well-organized and safe workspace is vital. This not only improves efficiency but also helps you avoid injuries. Start by clearing away any unnecessary clutter and making room for larger boards and tools.
Safety Precautions
- Protective Gear: Wear goggles, work gloves, and a dust mask when cutting or sanding.
- Stable Surface: Secure your lumber on sawhorses or a sturdy workbench to prevent wobbling.
- Proper Lighting: Good lighting reduces the likelihood of measurement or cutting errors.
Layout and Organization
- Marking Cut Lines: Using chalk or pencil, draw precise cut lines on each wood piece.
- Dedicated Tool Area: Keep frequently used tools within arm’s reach to streamline the build process.
- Ventilation: If you’re working indoors, ensure adequate airflow, especially when using power saws or applying stains.
Taking time to set up your workspace might feel like an extra step, but it’s an investment in the safety and quality of your final product. Proper organization and safety measures lead to a smoother, more enjoyable building experience.
Constructing the Door Frames
After all that preparation, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and build the core of your double swinging barn doors—the frames. These frames form the backbone of your doors, supporting the panels and hardware.
1. Cut Your Boards
- Measure twice, cut once. Ensure each board is cut to the length and width you outlined in your plans.
- Label each piece so you don’t confuse them during assembly.
2. Create a Rectangular Frame
- Lay out the cut boards on a flat surface.
- Use a carpenter’s square to ensure all corners are perfectly 90 degrees.
- Apply wood glue along each joint for added stability, then clamp the boards together before fastening with screws.
3. Reinforce Corners
- Secure each corner with additional screws or metal brackets.
- Verify that everything remains square after reinforcement.
4. Optional Crossbeams
- For added sturdiness and a classic barn-door look, install diagonal bracing.
- Cut the brace to fit diagonally within the frame, then secure it with screws and wood glue.
At this stage, precision is key. An uneven frame can cause your door to warp or become misaligned over time. By methodically constructing the door frames, you lay the foundation for installing panels, hardware, and, eventually, those double-action hinges.
Adding the Panels
Once your frames are complete, it’s time to move on to the panels, which provide the main visual impact of your double swinging barn doors.
1. Selecting Panel Materials
- Plywood: Lightweight and easy to work with, but requires a good finish to be decorative.
- Tongue-and-Groove Planks: Offer a rustic, classic barn aesthetic, especially when the wood grain is highlighted.
2. Cutting and Dry Fitting
- Measure the inner dimensions of each frame and cut panels accordingly.
- Place the panels within the frame before fastening to ensure a snug fit.
- Sand down any edges that prevent the panels from settling flush against the frame.
3. Attaching Panels
- For plywood, secure the edges with screws from the back of the frame to keep the front face clean.
- For tongue-and-groove planks, attach each plank to the horizontal supports and ensure proper alignment between pieces.
4. Sanding and Smoothing
- Go over the entire door with a fine-grit sandpaper to remove splinters or rough edges.
- Wipe off any sawdust with a damp cloth.
By incorporating well-fitted, visually appealing panels, you set the tone for the overall appearance of your barn doors. Whether you’re going for an understated look with simple plywood or a more decorative approach with reclaimed wood planks, pay attention to detail for a polished finish.
Installing Hinges and Swing Mechanism
The hallmark of any double swinging barn door lies in its ability to open both ways. Double-action spring hinges are your go-to hardware.
1. Mark Hinge Placement
- Position hinges approximately 6 to 8 inches from both the top and bottom edges of each door.
- Mark screw holes precisely, using a pencil or marker.
2. Pre-Drill Screw Holes
- To avoid splitting the wood, pre-drill holes for each screw.
- Use a bit slightly smaller than the screw’s diameter.
3. Secure the Hinges
- Align the hinge on your marks and fasten with screws, using a hand screwdriver or power driver on low torque.
- Ensure each hinge is firmly attached without over-tightening, which can strip the screws or damage the wood.
4. Swing Test
- Gently push the door to confirm it swings in both directions without binding.
- Adjust hinge tension if needed. Many double-action hinges include an adjustment screw to alter the tension, allowing you to fine-tune how quickly the door returns to center.
This step is paramount in achieving that smooth, effortless swing characteristic of saloon-style or barn-style double doors. Proper hinge installation goes hand in hand with accurate door dimensions, so if you notice any irregularities, backtrack and check measurements or alignment rather than forcing a solution.
Finishing Touches
Your double swinging barn doors are now functional, but the finishing process elevates them into a statement piece.
- Staining or Painting
- Choose a stain to enhance the wood’s natural grain or a paint color that complements your interior design.
- Apply with even strokes, following the wood grain. Allow ample drying time before applying a second coat if needed.
- Sealing for Durability
- Use a polyurethane finish or similar sealer to protect the wood from moisture, scratches, and fading.
- For high-traffic areas, consider multiple layers of protective coating.
- Aesthetic Hardware
- Swap out basic handles for decorative pulls that match your style.
- Install any additional accessories, such as corner brackets or wrought-iron accents, to heighten the visual appeal.
- Final Touches
- Carefully inspect for any paint drips, rough spots, or hardware issues.
- Address these minor imperfections now rather than after prolonged use.
The finishing stage is where your personal style shines through. Whether you opt for a minimalistic, modern look or lean into the rustic vibe, these details speak volumes about the care and craftsmanship behind your double swinging barn doors.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular door hinges instead of double-action hinges?
A: Regular door hinges only allow one-way movement. For true two-way swinging functionality, double-action spring hinges are essential.
Q: How do I maintain the correct tension on my double-action hinges?
A: Most double-action hinges come with an adjustment screw. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to find the sweet spot that lets the doors swing freely yet still return to center.
Q: Is a soft-close or hold-open mechanism available for these doors?
A: Yes. Some advanced double-action hinges come with soft-close features or hold-open stops, though they’re less common. You can also add external door stoppers to achieve similar effects.
Q: What type of wood is best if I live in a humid environment?
A: Cedar or pressure-treated pine can withstand humidity better than some hardwoods. It’s also crucial to seal and maintain the doors properly to reduce the risk of warping.
Q: Do I need a professional installer for the hinges if I’m a beginner?
A: While installing double-action hinges can be straightforward for intermediate DIY enthusiasts, beginners may benefit from professional help to ensure proper alignment and tension.
Q: Can I repurpose old doors into double swinging barn doors?
A: Absolutely. If the doors are in good condition, you can retrofit them by adding double-action hinges. Just verify that the dimensions and structural integrity are suitable for swinging both ways.
