I want to build a pair of external outward swinging hinged barn doors. Each door is 1200mm wide and 2300 mm height.
Hello @cal1780
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about building a barn door.
Here is a great guide on building a timber gate - How To Build A Gate. Depending on your needs you can build the gate using https://www.bunnings.com.au/70-x-45mm-outdoor-framing-h3-treated-pine-2-4m_p8032126 or https://www.bunnings.com.au/90-x-45mm-outdoor-framing-h3-treated-pine-2-4m_p8032172 . Just keep in mind that the thickness of the materials you use will contribute to the overall weight of the gate. I propose using https://www.bunnings.com.au/buildex-14g-x-150mm-class-4-bugle-batten-screws-25-pack_p0890595 to anchor the timber pieces together. Please make sure to drill pilot holes to prevent splitting the timber pieces.
I recommend looking at the https://www.bunnings.com.au/pinnacle-16mm-galvanised-rh-long-strap-security-gate-hinge_p4150143 to mount your gate. Please note that these hinges come in left and right hand configurations. The frame can be covered with https://www.bunnings.com.au/100-x-12mm-1-5m-fence-paling-h3-treated-pine-cca-1-5m_p0120253 in a horizontal pattern. Should you wish to install the paling vertically, I suggest making sure that the paling is straight and that it will have safe anchoring points on the timber gate frame.
Before you begin, I suggest drawing up your gate design on paper. This will tell you how many rails you'll need and how many diagonal braces will be necessary. Just remember that the more rails and support you add the heavier the gate frame gets. I've placed a sample image below to give you an idea.
If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.
Eric
