How to Make Bifold Barn Doors

Bifold barn doors blend the rustic charm of a traditional barn door with the practicality and space-saving features of bifold doors. Perfect for areas with limited space that cannot accommodate the swing of a standard barn door, these innovative doors fold neatly to the side, allowing for maximum usability of the surrounding area.

This guide on how to make bifold barn doors will walk you through the process of creating your own bifold barn doors, from gathering materials to the final installation, enabling you to add a unique and functional element to your home’s design. Whether you’re an experienced DIY enthusiast or a beginner eager to undertake a new project, this project offers an exciting challenge with a rewarding outcome.

What is a Bifold Barn Door?

A bifold barn door is essentially a traditional barn door that has been modified to fold in half, allowing for more space-saving options. These doors are typically made of wood and have the signature cross-brace design commonly found on barn doors.

You can choose to make your bifold barn door with a single or double folding design, depending on the width of your doorway and personal preference. Regardless of the style, these doors are designed to function similarly to standard bifold doors, providing easy access and maximizing space.

It is important to note that bifold barn doors may require more hardware and support than a regular barn door due to the folding mechanism, so it’s essential to plan accordingly when building your own.

Why Make Your Own Bifold Barn Doors?

Making your own bifold barn doors offers several benefits, including:

Cost Savings:

Building your own bifold barn doors can be significantly cheaper than purchasing ready-made doors. Plus, you have control over the quality of materials used.

Customization:

By making your own doors, you can choose the exact size and design that best fits your space and design aesthetic. You can also choose to use reclaimed or unique materials for a one-of-a-kind look.

Personal Satisfaction:

Undertaking a DIY project, especially one as unique and functional as bifold barn doors, is incredibly satisfying. You’ll have the pride of knowing you built something with your own two hands and added value to your home.

Materials Needed

Before beginning this project, you will need to gather the necessary materials. The good news is that most of these items can be found at your local hardware store, making this project easily accessible for DIY enthusiasts.

Wood Boards (Preferably Pine or Oak):

The amount and size of the wood boards you will need will depend on the size of your door. You will need enough to create a frame for your bifold barn door, as well as cross braces and panels.

Hinges:

You will need at least two hinges per door panel, but this may vary depending on the height and weight of your doors. Make sure to choose strong and sturdy hinges that can support the weight of your doors.

Bifold Door Hardware:

This includes tracks, rollers, and pivot hardware specifically designed for bifold doors. Make sure to choose hardware that is compatible with the thickness of your door panels.

11 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Make Bifold Barn Doors

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Wood Boards

Using a measuring tape, measure the dimensions of your doorway and cut the wood boards accordingly. Remember to account for the folding mechanism when determining the width of each door panel. The length of each board will depend on the height of your doorway and personal preference. It’s always better to cut the boards a bit longer than needed, as you can always trim them down later. But, if you cut them too short, you will have to start over.

Step 2: Sand and Stain/Paint the Boards

Before assembling your door, it’s essential to sand down the wood boards to ensure a smooth finish. You can also choose to stain or paint the boards at this stage, depending on your preferred aesthetic. You can also add a sealant to protect the wood from moisture and wear over time. The staining/painting process can be done after the door is assembled, but it may be more challenging to reach all areas once the door is put together.

Step 3: Assemble The Door Frame

Using wood glue and screws, assemble the frame of your bifold barn door. Start by attaching the top and bottom boards to the side boards. Make sure everything is square and use clamps to hold the pieces in place while the glue dries. Otherwise, the door may not fold correctly. It may also be helpful to pre-drill the screw holes to prevent the wood from splitting. The size of your frame will depend on the dimensions of your door opening.

Step 4: Add Cross Braces

Using the measurements from step one, cut and attach the cross braces to the door frame. The number of cross braces you will need will depend on the size and design of your door. These braces not only add support but also contribute to the traditional barn door look.

It’s essential to ensure that the cross braces are evenly spaced and adequately secured to prevent any warping or bending of the door over time.

Step 5: Install Hinges

Once the frame is assembled, it’s time to attach the hinges. Place two hinges on each side of each door panel, making sure they are evenly spaced. Use screws and a drill to secure the hinges to the door frame and panels. It’s essential to use sturdy and durable hinges that can support the weight of your doors. The hinges should be installed on the inside of the door frame so they are not visible when the door is closed.

Step 6: Install Bifold Hardware

Next, install the bifold door hardware. This includes tracks, rollers, and pivot hardware designed specifically for bifold doors. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure proper installation. It may be helpful to have someone assist you at this stage to hold the doors in place while installing the hardware. You can also use a level to ensure the doors are hanging evenly. But keep in mind that the tracks may need to be adjusted later.

Step 7: Test the Doors

After installing the hardware, it’s time to test your doors. Open and close them a few times to make sure they are functioning correctly and without an issue. If you notice any sticking or uneven movement, make adjustments to the hardware as needed. The doors should fold smoothly and evenly. You may also need to adjust the tracks or pivot hardware if the doors are not hanging straight.

Step 8: Add Finishing Touches

Once your bifold barn doors are assembled and installed, you can add any finishing touches. This could include handles, knobs, or locks, depending on your preferences. These final details can add character and personality to your doors. It’s also a good idea to add felt pads or bumpers on the back of the doors where they will come into contact with the walls to prevent any damage. You can also add weather stripping to the bottom of the doors to provide a better seal.

Step 9: Mount The Doors

With the bifold barn doors completed and tested, it’s time to mount them onto your doorway. This step may require an extra set of hands to help lift and position the doors. Make sure the tracks are level and secure before attaching the doors to them. Once mounted, test the doors again to make sure they are functioning correctly.

Step 10: Enjoy Your New Bifold Barn Doors

Congratulations, you have successfully built and installed your bifold barn doors! Now it’s time to sit back and enjoy the beautiful addition to your space. These doors are not only functional but also add a rustic and charming element to any room. It’s also worth noting that these doors can be easily removed and reinstalled if you ever need to change or update them. You can also choose to add additional features such as a top track or handles, in the future.

If you have any issues with your doors, refer back to the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional help.

Step 11: Maintenance and Care

To ensure your bifold barn doors last for years to come, it’s important to properly maintain and care for them. This includes periodically checking the hardware for any loose screws or damage. You may also need to adjust the tracks as they can become misaligned over time. It’s also a good idea to regularly clean and treat the wood with a protective sealant to prevent any wear or damage from moisture or sunlight. With proper care, your bifold barn doors will continue to be a beautiful and functional addition to your space.  So why wait? Start building your own bifold barn doors today!

Following these steps will guide you through the process of creating beautiful and functional bifold barn doors. Remember to take your time, use proper tools and materials, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if needed. With a little bit of patience and effort, you can transform any doorway into a statement piece with bifold barn doors.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance and care are essential to ensure the longevity of your bifold barn doors. Here are some tips for keeping them in tip-top shape:

• Regularly check the hardware and tighten any loose screws or hinges.
• Keep an eye on the tracks and make sure they are aligned properly. If not, adjust them as needed.
• Clean and treat the wood with a protective sealant every 6-12 months to prevent wear and damage from moisture or sunlight.
• Avoid slamming the doors, as this can cause damage to the hinges and frame.
• If your doors start to stick or become difficult to open and close, check for any debris in the tracks. Wipe them clean if necessary.
• Touch up any scratches or nicks in the wood with a matching wood stain or paint.
• If your bifold barn doors are exposed to extreme weather conditions, consider adding an extra layer of protection such as a storm door or awning.

By following these simple maintenance tips, you can ensure that your bifold barn doors will continue to be a beautiful and functional addition to your space for years to come.

Additional Tips

• You can customize your bifold barn doors with different hardware, finishes, or distressing techniques to fit your personal style.
• For a more streamlined look, consider using flush hinges and handles that are recessed into the door panels.
• If you have larger door openings, you may need to use additional support brackets or track extenders for added stability.
• Bifold barn doors can also be used as room dividers or closet doors, giving them even more versatility.
• Remember to measure twice and cut once to ensure precise and accurate cuts for your door frame and panels.
• Consider using reclaimed or salvaged wood for a more rustic and sustainable option.
• Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different designs or patterns on the door panels.
• Have fun and enjoy the process of building your own bifold barn doors!  So why wait? Start creating your own unique bifold barn doors today.
• Remember to always prioritize safety and use proper protective gear when working with tools and materials.
• If you are unsure about any step in the process, seek guidance from a professional or refer to additional resources for help.
• Don’t forget to share your finished bifold barn doors on social media using bifold barndoors for inspiration and to show off your DIY skills!  Happy building!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I Use Different Types of Wood for the Door?

A: Yes, you can use any type of wood for your bifold barn doors as long as they are sturdy and durable enough to support the weight of the door panels. The type of wood you choose can also affect the overall look and style of your doors. You can also choose to stain or paint the wood for a customized finish.

Q: Do I Need Professional Help Installing Bifold Barn Doors?

A: While it may be helpful to have an extra set of hands during installation, bifold barn doors can be easily installed by following the manufacturer’s instructions and using basic tools. However, if you are unsure about any step or don’t feel comfortable with the installation process, it’s always best to seek professional help.

Q: How Do I Determine the Size of My Door Frame?

A: To determine the size of your door frame, measure the width and height of your doorway. The recommended size for bifold barn doors is about two inches less than the total width and one inch less than the total height of your doorway to allow for proper clearance and movement. Make sure to measure the frame accurately to ensure a perfect fit for your doors. It’s also a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific measurements or requirements.

Q: Can I Install Bifold Barn Doors in Any Type of Doorway?

A: Yes, bifold barn doors can be installed on any type of doorway as long as there is enough space for the track and hardware. However, if you have a larger or wider doorway, you may need to use larger and heavier-duty hardware to support the weight of the doors. It’s important to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific requirements based on your doorway size.

Q: Can I Install Bifold Barn Doors in a Bathroom or Other Moisture-Prone Areas?

A: While bifold barn doors can be used in any room of the house, it’s important to consider the level of moisture and humidity in the area before installation. If your bathroom or other moisture-prone areas are not properly ventilated, it may cause damage to the wood over time. In these cases, it’s recommended to use wood that is resistant to moisture or to regularly treat the wood with a protective sealant. 

As always, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper care and maintenance.

Conclusion

Crafting and installing your own bifold barn doors is an attainable project that can significantly enhance the aesthetic and functionality of your space. By carefully selecting materials, following the step-by-step guide on how to make bifold barn doors, and adhering to maintenance recommendations, you can ensure that your doors not only look stunning but also stand the test of time.

Whether you’re aiming to add a rustic touch to your living area, create privacy in an open-plan space, or simply want to undertake a fulfilling DIY project, bifold barn doors are a versatile and rewarding choice. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key in bringing this beautiful addition to life in your home.