Can a Barn Door Be Hinged?

The simple answer is “yes”. A popular way to hang barn doors is by using an overhead track system but that is not the only way. Barn doors can be installed just as easily using hinges, foregoing the track system altogether. This allows for more flexibility in terms of placement and opening direction.

Hinged barn doors are typically mounted on a pair of large, sturdy hinges and can be opened in both directions. They can be hung on a wall or frame like a traditional door and can be locked with a latch or lock if desired.

When installing a hinged barn door, it's important to ensure that the hinges are properly installed and can support the weight of the door. It's also important to make sure that the door is properly leveled and that the hardware is functioning smoothly. It's also important to make sure that the door is sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use.

In summary, a barn door can be hinged, allowing for more flexibility in terms of placement and opening direction. They are typically mounted on large, sturdy hinges and can be opened in both directions. It's important to ensure proper installation, level, and hardware alignment to ensure smooth functioning and durability. There are a few choices when it comes to hinges: butt hinges, single action hinges, and double action hinges.

When deciding whether to use a butt hinge or double action hinge, it’s best to first consider how you want the barn door to function. Either hinge will get the job done and it really all depends on what option works best for you. Barn doors are great for a bathroom, home office, kitchen, pantry, laundry room, or flex space and can be incorporated into any home design.

Butt Hinge

Let’s first look at the butt hinge and how it may be the right hinge for your barn door. It is a simple device that has two rectangular-shaped leaves supported by a joint in the middle. When installed, the butt hinge is largely hidden when the door is closed. The hinge enables the door to be easily operated. A door jamb is required for the installation and the hinge will need to be mortised into the door. A butt hinge is a single action hinge which means the door will swing in only one direction and will not automatically return the door to the center position. For this reason, butt hinges are used primarily on exterior doors.

Double Action Hinges

Double action hinges, on the other hand, function very differently than the butt hinge. Some of the major differences are as follows. First, two types of double action hinges are gravity and spring. Mechanically, both operate differently but with the same result. Gravity hinges use the force of gravity to bring the door back to the center. A small ramp pushes the door open and slides back down the ramp when it closes. Some types of gravity double action hinges allow the door to hold open at 90 degrees. As the name suggests, the spring hinge uses an internal spring to open and close the door but does not have an option for holding the door open. 

Things to Consider When Choosing Swinging Door Hardware

Another difference from the butt hinge is that double action hinges will automatically return the door to the center and will allow the door to swing in both directions. For this reason, you do not necessarily need to install a door handle but for aesthetics, it is a good option. Also, these hinges can be installed in a traditional door opening or in a non-traditional door opening using trim boards. Double action hinges allow for great ease of use with barn doors. The door can be pushed open with a hand, elbow, or butt, making them a perfect option for your doors. 

Now that you know that a barn door can be installed with hinges and all the great hinge choices available, you are in a good position to decide the best one for your new barn door. Barn style doors are a great design choice that can be incorporated into any home. They can be a great solution for a large opening, a master bathroom, or a home office to name a few. Swinging Cafe Doors offers a wide variety of swinging and sliding barn doors. 

Strap Hinges

Installing barn doors with strap hinges and barn door hardware can add a rustic and charming aesthetic to any space. The strap hinges, often crafted from durable materials like iron or steel, provide a timeless and authentic look, reminiscent of traditional barn doors. These hinges not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute to the door's functionality and stability.

Sliding Barn Door Track Hardware

Barn door hardware, including track systems and rollers, facilitates smooth and effortless movement of the door along the chosen path. This hardware comes in various styles and finishes, allowing for customization to match the overall décor. Proper installation of barn doors and their associated hardware requires careful measurement and alignment to ensure seamless operation.

Compliment Your Home with our Swinging Doors

When choosing hinges for a door, it's important to consider the weight and size of the door, as well as the desired aesthetic. It's also important to make sure that the hinges are heavy duty, durable, and designed to withstand heavy use. It's recommended to consult the manufacturer's instructions and if you are not confident with your skills, it's recommended to hire a professional to install the hinges.When choosing hinges for a barn door, it's important to consider the weight and size of the door, as well as the desired aesthetic. It's also important to make sure that the hinges are durable and designed to withstand heavy use. It's recommended to consult the manufacturer's instructions and if you are not confident with your skills, it's recommended to hire a professional to install the hinges.