If you are planning to buy a pole barn, you need to think carefully about which type of door to choose. Several styles are available, but they have important differences in the way they function and how they can affect the comfort of the interior.

Sliding Doors

Sliding doors are cost-effective and are made in a variety of sizes to suit any pole barn. You can choose a single sliding door or two that slide toward each other and meet in the middle.

Sliding doors are easy to open and close, but they must be operated manually, which might be a challenge for some individuals, especially if the door needs to be opened often. They are not insulated against cold temperatures and don’t provide a tight enough seal to keep out animals, insects, dust, and dirt. Depending on where the pole barn will be located and how you plan to use it, that may or may not be a serious problem. Sliding doors are appropriate for a pole barn used to house animals or to store vehicles and equipment that are used infrequently.

Overhead Doors

An overhead door can be opened and closed with a remote control, which makes it easier to use than a sliding door and a better option if the door will be opened frequently. It can provide a better seal to keep out pests, and it can be insulated to protect the building’s contents from cold temperatures. An overhead door is a good option if people will be entering and leaving the building several times a day, but overhead doors tend to cost more than sliding doors and can be expensive to repair if they break down.

Hydraulic Doors

Hydraulic doors are larger, wider, and heavier than other types and are operated with a simple hydraulic system. They can come in one or two pieces. A hydraulic door makes sense for a large farm or for a commercial building where vehicles or heavy equipment are stored, but it’s not appropriate for a smaller pole barn used for residential storage.

A hydraulic door opens outward but may swing partway into the building. This allows for more storage space and flexibility with the arrangement of the building’s interior. If you want, you can leave the door open while working inside your pole barn to allow in natural light and fresh air. The door can also provide shade and protection from rain.

Explore Pole Barn Design Options

CHA Pole Barns offers buildings in a wide range of sizes and styles to suit a variety of needs. Whether you want a pole barn to use for storage or as a shelter for horses or livestock, we can help you choose the right design. Contact us today to learn more.