If you have limited wall space and want sliding barn doors, they can feel inconvenient because they take up a lot of wall space. One practical solution to regain wall space is to install bifold barn doors. They are easy to install and operate, and they come in different materials, designs, and finish options. From kitchens to closets, these doors work well in almost every spot.
This guide explains how bifold barn doors operate, why they are a great door option, and how to measure bifold barn door size properly.
How Does the Bifold Barn Door System Operate?
The Bifold Barn door doesn't slide flat along the wall; instead, it folds accordion-style along an overhead track. One panel is attached to the wall on a fixed pivot point and doesn't move along the track. The other panel hangs from a roller and freely moves along the track. As you open the door, the moving panel pivots and folds against the fixed panel, so that both panels are stacked together beside the doorway.
Bifold barn doors occupy less space than the standard sliding doors because the panels are folded instead of sliding.
Therefore, it's best to choose barn doors if you have limited wall space beside the opening because barn doors need less clearance beside the opening compared to the standard sliders. However, if you have enough wall space, you can choose standard sliders as they are easy to install and operate. When you have limited clearance, mostly in closets, pantries, laundry rooms, and bathrooms, then bifold barn doors can be the best choice.
Benefits Of Bifold Barn Doors
Here are some reasons why you should choose bifold barn doors :
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Takes Up Less Space
Unlike regular sliding doors that take up a lot of wall space, bifold doors fold up to save space and stay out of the way. This makes bifold barn doors a good choice for small spaces like closets, bathrooms, or laundry rooms.
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Looks Classy
Bifold barn doors complement both modern industrial and traditional farmhouse designs. These doors bring rustic charm to your space and can easily achieve a modern look by combining glass and metal.
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Easy To Operate
The folding design operates smoothly, so you can open and close them whenever you want.
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Flexible And Useful
Bifold barn doors can be used to split rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. They work well in every spot, including hallways, closets, pantries, offices, or even a store.
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Can Be Personalized
You can easily personalize bifold barn doors with different materials, designs, and finish options. You can also customize bifold barn door hardware.
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Easy Installation
Bifold barn doors are easier to install than traditional sliding barn doors. Bifold barn doors only require a simple hinge and track system to fold within the doorway. So they are an ideal choice for DIY installation or a quick professional setup.
How to Measure a Bifold Barn Door for Your Space?
Here is the right step-by-step measurement guide to find the right bifold barn door size for your space:
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Calculate the Width
Using a measuring tape, measure the accessible space for the bifold barn door. If the opening has trim, measure from the outer edge of the trim. Add 2 extra inches to the measurement so the door fully covers the opening when closed.
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Calculate the Height
To measure the height, measure from the floor to the top of the opening. If you want an overhead track, measure from the top of the track to the floor. Make sure you leave at least half an inch of space at the bottom to keep the door from dragging.
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Review Panel Thickness
Checking the door thickness is another important factor. Generally, standard bifold doors are ¾ to 1 ¾ inches thick. Thinner doors feel lighter and are easier to open, while thicker ones offer greater durability, cost more, and are also soundproof.
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Evaluate the Track System
Measure the area above the doorway for the track.
Write down all the above measurements and show them to your manufacturer while you buy a bifold barn door. If your measurements don't match standard sizes, you'll need a custom bifold barn door.
Conclusion
If you have limited wall space, bifold barn doors are a great choice for freeing up space. Bifold barn doors take up much less space as compared to standard sliders. They are flexible, easy to install, and can be customized to your preferences. Consider taking proper measurements of the doorway height, width, and panel thickness before buying. Proper measurements ensure that the door fits the doorway perfectly.
