How to measure for sliding barn door hardware

Installing a sliding barn door can be a stylish and functional addition to your home. However, one crucial factor is measuring for the door hardware. These measurements are essential to ensure your barn door fits and functions correctly. 

In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to prepare for your barn door hardware installation. All you’ll need is a tape measure and something to note down your measurements.

The measurements needed for your barn door installation

Before you buy a sliding barn door, you’ll need to measure the width and height of your doorway, the wall space where your door will slide, and the space needed for your hardware. Here’s how to measure them.

Step 1: Measure the doorway width

First, you need to measure the width of the doorway where you plan to install the barn door. Measure from one side of the door frame to the other. 

Take note of this measurement and then add an extra 5-10cm on each side. So, if your doorway measures 80cm wide, your barn door should ideally be around 90-100cm. This width will ensure proper coverage and prevent gaps.

If your doorway width exceeds the width of a single barn door, you may consider installing double barn doors. In this case, divide the doorway width by 2 to determine the width of each barn door. 

Step 2: Measure the doorway height

Next, measure the height of the doorway from the floor to the top of the opening. This measurement will guide you in determining the height of your barn door. You’ll need a gap of about 1cm between the door and the floor.

Bear in mind that the barn door hardware will also require extra space above the door frame. Generally, you’ll need an additional 5-10cm for the hardware. Make sure there is enough room between the top of the door frame and the roof for your hardware to sit.

Step 3: Check for clearance

Beyond the width and height, check the area around the doorway for obstructions such as light switches, outlets, windows, vents, and trim work. The door needs space to slide completely open without colliding with anything. For double barn doors, you will need clearance on both sides of the door.

To check for adequate clearance, measure the width of the proposed barn door and compare it with the space on the side of the doorway. If your door is 100cm wide, ensure that there’s at least 100cm of unobstructed space alongside the doorway.

Step 4: Calculate the track length

The barn door track length should be at least twice the width of the barn door. Multiply the barn door width by two and add an extra 5-10cm for extra clearance on each side. If your barn door is 100cm wide, you should ideally have a track that is 200cm long. This will prevent the door from sliding off the track.

If you choose to install double barn doors, you will need a longer track, or you can use a track joiner to connect two tracks together.

Step 5: Check the door weight

It is also important to check the weight of your barn door. Standard sliding barn doors weigh between 10-40kg. You’ll need to ensure your door doesn’t exceed the maximum weight capacity of the track.

Rolltrak barn door tracks can hold up to 100kg, so you won’t have to worry about it holding your door in place. 

Accurately measuring for your sliding barn door hardware is crucial to ensure a smooth and efficient installation process. With your detailed measurements, you can now confidently choose the perfect-sized barn door and hardware.

Everything you need for a seamless barn door installation

At Rolltrak, we offer top-tier sliding barn door tracks, joiners, and must-have accessories for reliable and smooth operation. Our hardware is designed with your convenience in mind, promising an effortless installation process. Check out our full range or find us in your favourite Bunnings Warehouse store.