You can customize a pole barn based on your needs and how you plan to use the building. Pole barn door types are one important area to consider. You can choose sliding, overhead or hydraulic doors, and several factors will shape which one is best for you.
Pole Barn Door Types: Sliding Doors
Sliding doors are the least expensive option. They take more work to open than other doors. Still, they are a good choice if you won’t move tools or equipment in and out often.
Sliding doors also make less noise than other types. As a result, they work well for horse barns, because they are less likely to spook the horses.
Also, these doors can be one or two pieces. You can mount them on the outside or inside of the building. Inside mounting can help in a cold climate, because snow and ice are less likely to block the doors. Sliding doors come with steel or steel and aluminum framing.
Overhead Doors
An overhead door opens upward. It costs more than a sliding door. However, it is a good choice if you will use the door often.
In addition, you can open an overhead door by hand or electronically. These doors can be as wide as 40 feet to move large equipment. You can also customize them with windows or paint them to look like wood.
Hydraulic Doors
Hydraulic doors are large, wide and heavy-duty. They swing open, and people commonly use them on agricultural and commercial buildings. However, they are less common on suburban and equestrian buildings, because those usually don’t need such a large door.
Hydraulic doors can also be one or two pieces. For example, a single-piece hydraulic door with hinges at the top swings straight out. Some swing partially into the building.
When raised, a hydraulic door can provide shelter from rain or the hot sun. People also often install lights inside the door to light the area when it is open.
Comparing Pole Barn Door Types
In short, sliding doors cost the least and stay quiet. Overhead doors suit frequent use. Hydraulic doors handle the largest openings on farm and commercial buildings. So compare these pole barn door types against how you will use your building.
