The Battle of the Doors: Barn Door vs. Pocket Door

Do you have a spot in your home where a swinging door takes up too much space? That’s where sliding doors come in handy. You have two standout contenders to choose from: barn doors and pocket doors. But which should you choose?

Whether you’re remodeling a bathroom, revamping your pantry, or undertaking a whole-home renovation, this guide will help you decide which type of door is the best fit.

What Is a Barn Door?

A barn door slides along an exposed track mounted above the doorway. Often constructed from wood or a wood-look material, the door remains visible when open, resting flat against the wall.

Pros of Barn Doors

• Straightforward to install
• Visually striking
• Easy to access and maintain
• Can be installed in pairs for wide openings

Cons of Barn Doors

• Needs clear wall space for sliding
• Poor sound dampening
• Limited locking options
• Can be heavy and loud to operate if not well-installed

What Is a Pocket Door?

A pocket door slides open and closed as well, but it disappears into a hollow cavity within the wall. The track is concealed, and the door disappears completely when opened for a minimalist look.

Pros of Pocket Doors

• Great for tight or high-traffic areas
• Clean look
• Better privacy and sealing

Cons of Pocket Doors

• Complex installation
• Harder to repair
• Not as visually dramatic

When to Install a Barn or Pocket Door

Different rooms demand different solutions. Here’s where each option shines:

• Bathrooms: Pocket doors are usually ideal. They preserve floor space, offer better sound control, and improve privacy with a more secure lock.
• Pantries: Barn doors add style and are easier to install, assuming you have the wall space. Pocket doors offer a neater profile but cost more and involve more work.
• Closets: Both work well, depending on your goals. Pocket doors disappear, making them ideal for narrow hallways. Barn doors add charm and are simpler to retrofit.
• Laundry rooms and hallway nooks: Pocket doors keep small areas looking clean and unobstructed. They’re especially useful when a washer and dryer sit in a hallway closet.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Door

Choosing between a barn door and a pocket door depends on how you want it to function and what aesthetic you prefer:

• Space requirements: Barn doors need enough adjacent wall space to slide open, with no artwork, outlets, or furniture in their path. Pocket doors require wall cavities that are free from plumbing and wiring.
• Installation difficulty: Installing a barn door typically involves mounting a track to the wall. Pocket doors require wall framing and potentially relocating studs or utilities. Accessing the hidden track and hardware for repairs may require opening the wall.
• Aesthetic appeal: Barn doors introduce texture and movement to a room. Pocket doors favor a cleaner, quieter look.
• Cost: Barn doors generally cost less to install, especially in existing spaces. Pocket doors may raise the budget due to demolition, framing, and finish work.

Door Types for Different Home Styles

Match your door style to your home’s architecture:

• Traditional homes: Pocket doors are best. They hide away when open, preserving the existing trim and molding.
• Rustic or farmhouse: Barn doors are a natural choice. Wood finishes, wrought iron hardware, and the sliding function fit right in.
• Industrial spaces: A steel or reclaimed wood barn door with visible hardware enhances the raw, functional aesthetic.
• Minimalist designs: Pocket doors preserve the clean lines of this style.
• Eclectic or transitional: Either door style can work. A painted barn door bridges old and new, while a pocket door keeps the space versatile.

Request a Remodeling Consultation with DiFabion

DiFabion Remodeling has helped Charlotte-area homeowners reimagine their spaces since 2000. Our certified remodelers, in-house carpenters, and award-winning design team collaborate closely with you. We’ll help you select door styles, fixtures, hardware, and every other detail to ensure your remodel reflects how you live and what you love.

Schedule a consultation to explore how the right door can transform your home.