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If you’re looking for a secure and stylish way to lock your exterior sliding barn doors, we’ve got you covered! Our selection of barn door privacy locks and locking hardware products are suitable for every door in your home or commercial space.
Whether you have a traditional swinging door or a custom vertical slide pocket door, our locking mechanisms and door pulls will give you the extra layer of security and privacy that you need.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about barn door locks, including the different types available, the installation process, measurement considerations, and more.
What Are Exterior Barn Doors?
Barn doors are popular for their rustic charm and space-saving benefits. Instead of using a traditional swing door that takes up valuable floor space when open, sliding barn doors save space by sliding along a track on the wall.
They’re commonly used for closets, room dividers, cabinet doors, or garage entries. An exterior version is typically wider than an interior one which helps large objects like vehicles through it easily.
What Types of Exterior Barn Door Locks Do I Need to Install?
There are many types of exterior barn door locks that might suit your needs depending on the level of security required. Here’s a quick rundown:
- The latch: The most simple choice is an add-on latch installed onto the side of the door. It requires minimal hardware and installation time but doesn’t provide much privacy protection.
- Flush mount handle: A sleeker option that allows for easy opening from either or both sides without presenting an obstruction via external handles. When locked (usually keyed), its flush placement keeps those not authorized out better than basic latches.
- Privacy lock set (interior use only): This type shouldn’t be used outside where the weather can damage it easily- since we don’t want rusting metals in our inserts, do we? Popularity comes as it’s a complete set, allowing for both locking and privacy, usually with door pulls combined. Example sets include the Baldwin Prestige Madrina knob or Kwikset Halifax Square Satin nickel.
- Bi-parting barn doors: For larger door openings or bigger traffic passage needs, these are double-hinged doors able to slide open from the center point on multiple tracks in the wall. They need an extra lock mechanism but allow for wider opening space when desired.
- Custom hardware options: As some exterior barn doors come in unique sizes and shapes than standard sliding doors, a custom mechanism could be required, which can be ordered specifically for individual doors or projects. Note that custom locks have higher expenses and longer lead times for deliveries.
What Should I Consider When Measuring For An Exterior Barn Door Lock?
To ensure the optimal function of your barn door locks hardware products, you need to determine the correct fitment before committing to shipping fees, as customization may involve additional fees.
Getting accurate measurements is important as you won’t want to pick something ill-fitted that won’t even attach to your chosen style of door. Here are a few things to consider when measuring for an exterior barn door lock:
- Door Style: Consider whether you have a traditional swinging door or a sliding version, and determine the correct hardware for that specific type of door.
- Door Thickness: Measure the thickness of your door to select hardware that is compatible and will securely fasten it in place.
- Door Opening Size: The size of your doorway opening is important as this gives you an idea of what kind of locking mechanism would work best.
- Hardware Placement: Determine where you want to install the lock on the door frame or the adjacent wall so that it operates optimally with minimal obstructions in its way – think carefully about accessibility and positioning before drilling for any locks!
- Customization Needs: If your barn door has non-standard sizing, curves, arches, or material than usual- additional customization may be needed depending on what product line your chosen lock piece comes from.
What’s Involved in Installing an Exterior Barn Door Lock?
Installing an exterior barn door lock is similar to installing any other type of hardware kit.
The key difference lies within the semi-industrial finish and functionality, as most barn doors require products built stronger than usual as they tend to open under quite some pressure and encounter regular usage over time.
For first-timers at DIY installation, we recommend considering having a skilled handyman take care of it, especially if walls need drilling or pre-existing damage might affect the sound attachment of those pesky screws!
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide on how to install an exterior barn door lock:
- Measure Twice: Determine what kind of auxiliary pieces are included (bolts/screws) before beginning
- Place Hardware onto The Door Correctly: Attaching both handles or flush toilets handles should be done right; one solid grip shouldn’t be lower than another nor higher to secure proper pulling access while still keeping unwanted intruders out.
- Trace Markings Onto The Door: Set the lock placement by use of a template that can be provided with certain kits. Mark all necessary places on the door and frame where installation hardware will need to be connected.
- Drill pilot Holes: Use a powered drill with the correct size bit, making sure its depth is measured accordingly in order not to damage the other side of the door or wall.
- Align Lock Mechanism: Attach the locks mechanism with care to ensure proper fitment while securely affixing for strength and stability during daily use.
- Checking Closure Alignment: Check everything lines up properly by closing and opening the door a few times; also verify that locking mechanisms remain operational without jamming somehow.
- Maintenance Once Installed: Last but not least, listen to manufacturers’ guidance regarding future lubrication needs, if any.
Is Shipping Available For Exterior Barn Slide Door Locks?
Yes! Most reputable brands offer free shipping when purchasing products from their online stores, which is convenient as your selections come straight to your location.
This saves time on looking for them at brick-and-mortar stores while giving you easy access to product details before purchase.
Some brands may also offer expedited shipping options for an additional fee, which can be useful if you need the lock quickly for a project.
It’s also important to note that availability and delivery times may vary depending on where you’re located, as well as some customization choices. Always check with the brand or supplier to know what their lead time estimates are so you don’t get stuck waiting longer than wanted compared to last-minute demands!
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing an exterior barn door lock, there are many factors to consider, from functionality, aesthetics, customizations, and ordering regulations details down to your shipping preferences.
With a wide variety of products available from different brands- research carefully so you can make the best choice suited for you.
