This week's blog post is about one of our favorites sliding barn door accessories: the Support Track Header AKA Ledger Board. Even though this is quite a popular product loved by general contractors and interior designers, many people are not sure about the benefits of using this accessory for sliding barn door installation.
But wait a second. What is a Support Track Header?
A Track Support Header (Ledger Board) is a custom-cut and custom-finished slab of wood prepared for your specific specifications and door dimensions.
The use of a Ledger Board is highly recommended for all barn door installations where there is no wood blocking on the wall.
When you buy a Ledger Board from RealCraft, we will predrill and install ledger lock fasteners to match your barn door hardware kit specifications. This means making your hardware installation extremely easy, accurate, and fast. Since the Support Track Header is already pre drilled for the RealCraft Flat Track Hardware line with exact measurements, placing, and spacingfor your track system attachment, so you won't need to worry about making sure everything is lined up!
Ledger Boards are available to pair with 4-18 ft. They are compatible with the following hardware styles: Classic, Aero, Prop, Mini, Hammered Flat Track hardware, and Hex Bar, and Swiss Rod Architectural hardware. The Support Track Header can support doors up to 400 lbs. with ease.
Each Ledger Board is shipped ready to install, complete with all the hardware and instructions needed for installation.
Do I need a Support Track Header for my barn door?
It depends! Even though you must a Ledger Board in case your wall does not have wood blocking, there are two other reasons to use a ledger board for your barn door installation:
- In case you don't have a door frame (just an opening from floor to ceiling);
- Aesthetics.
1. Installing a barn door without a door frame using a Track Support Header
In case you want a sliding barn door but don't have a door frame, just an opening from the floor to the ceiling, using a ledger board will give you the support you need to hang your barn door.
To install a barn door without having a door frame, install the Track Support Header (ledger board) across the opening and attach it to each side of the opening. See the example on the right side of a barn door installation without a door frame.
2. Using a Support Track Header for Aesthetic Purposes
Besides securing your barn door to the wall, the ledger board can also enhance your barn door appearance and make your installation look more cohesive.
When building your RealCraft Support Track Header, you can choose from 20 different wood species 3 different finish options so you can match it with your barn door or use an entirely different species for contrast! Take a look at this beautiful project featuring a Reclaimed Wood Support Track Header:
How to Install a Support Track Header in 4 Easy Steps.
Now let's take a look on how to install a Support Track Header. In addition to the Header, you will need:
- Pencil
- Level
- Power Drill
- 1/4" Drill Bit
- Tape Measure
- 5/6" Hex Driver
- Stud Finder
Step 1. Mark where you would like the door edge to be when the door is closed. Add 1.5" to that to find the board edge location.
Step 2. Mark where you would like the door edge to be when the door is closed. Add 1.5" to that to find the board edge location.
Step 3. From your board edge mark, measure to the center of each stud marked in step 2 and mark your board's corresponding location along the center drill line. This step keeps your mounting screws hidden behind your track.
Step 4. Hold your board up on the wall, align the end marks, and drill line. Be sure to use a level to install the board. Sliding doors that are not level will only want to stay open or closed. Using your 5/16" driver, install your board with the provided screws. We recommend an impact driver or power drill for this process.
Shop RealCraft's Support Track Header
RealCraft offers a large selection of barn doors, barn door hardware and barn door accessories. For more information and for custom orders, send us an email at info@realcraft.com
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