How to install sliding barn doors?

In addition to being a trending decorative feature in modern homes, internal sliding barn doors are also great at saving space. Consider adding a sliding barn door to your house if you want to add a charming and rustic look to your house. Moreover, what makes them more attractive to homeowners is that they are pretty simple to install especially for the Do-It-Yourself (DIY) enthusiasts. In case you are wondering how to install sliding barn door in house by yourself, this guide by United Porte, a leading manufacturer of doors in the U.S., will take you through the easy process of installing a barn door to create the custom look you want in your house.

Product - Sturdy Barn Door | Planum 0010 Concrete

Easy Steps for Installation of Barn Doors

Space and Hardware Considerations
Before you consider adding a sliding barn door to your house, grab a tape measure and evaluate the size of the aperture where your barn style door will be installed. To install a sliding barn door, you will need adequate wall space next to the opening, where the doors will slide open. A general rule for hardware size is to double the door width and add 4 inches to find the required total hardware length. Find the necessary interior wood barn door hardware that matches the size of the opening and the internal design of your house from United Porte’s wide variety of styles, sizes, and finishes.
Treating the Door
Should you choose an untreated door, begin with applying an attractive paint or stain to protect the door from moisture and damage. Moisture causes the door to warp and swell.
Backer Board Installation
Unless you have concrete walls, you will need to install a 1-inch thick backer board to separate the door from the wall. Treat the board with paint that matches your door or wall color. Use a level to make sure the header board is straight, and secure it firmly to the wall using 4-inch structural screws.
Metal Track Installation
The metal track is the rail on which your door will slide to open and close. Position the metal track at the center of the header board and drill screw holes into the board to match the track’s screw holes. Secure the metal track firmly to the header board with wood screws. Remember to use the lever to make sure that the metal track is straight and perfectly horizontal to the ground.
Door Hangers and Anti-Jump Discs Installation
Attach the hangers and anti-jump discs to both ends of the door with screws. A template is usually included in the kit to assist you with attaching the hangers.
Barn Doors Installation
Hang the door to the metal track and adjust the anti-jump discs to ensure the door does not jump off the metal track.
Doorstops and Floor Guide Installation
Doorstops secure the door from sliding out of the track while floor guides reduce the wobble when opening or closing the door.

Tools You Need to Hang a Barn Door

Paint or stain
Stud finder
Tape measure
Pencil
Level
Screwdriver
Power drill/driver
Drill bits
Wood screws
Step ladder