Stable Doors

A stable door is split across the middle so the top and bottom can open separately. Open the top for fresh air and light while the bottom stays shut to keep children and pets in. Stable doors started out on barns and farm buildings, which is why they are still sometimes called barn doors or Dutch doors.

Today’s stable doors look traditional but are built to the same standard as any modern front or back door. This guide explains how they work, where they suit best and what to think about before you order.

How stable doors work

Each half has its own lock. A bolt joins the two halves so they open together as one door when you want. Our stable doors are composite, with a solid core in each half, and come in 13 colours.

In practice that gives you three ways to use the door:

• Top half open: air and light in, bottom half locked shut.
• Both halves bolted together: it opens and closes like a normal door.
• Both halves locked: fully secure when you go out or go to bed.

Where they work best

• Kitchens and back doors onto a garden
• Cottages and farmhouses
• Homes with dogs or young children

They are also handy for anyone who spends time chatting over the door to neighbours or keeping an eye on the garden while cooking.

Designs

Choose from traditional panelled, cottage and half-glazed designs, or a farmhouse design. Side panels and top lights can be added just like a standard composite door.

A half-glazed design lets more light into a kitchen or hallway. Choose obscure glass if the door faces a road or path. Our door glass guide explains the options.

Why composite stable doors

A composite door has a solid core inside a tough GRP skin with a wood grain finish. It will not warp, rot or need painting, which matters on a stable door because both halves need to stay true to line up and seal well. Compare materials in our composite vs uPVC doors guide.

Security on stable doors

Because each half locks on its own, a stable door is not a weak point when it is shut and locked. When choosing your hardware, look for anti-snap cylinders rated to TS007 3 star or Sold Secure Diamond. For new homes, Approved Document Q expects doors to meet PAS 24.

Remember the top half is only secure when it is closed and locked. Don’t leave it open when you are out of the room for long. Read more in our door locks and security guide.

Measuring for a stable door

You measure for a stable door exactly as for any other door. Measure the brickwork opening, not the old frame, at three points for the width and three for the height. Use the smallest of each and take off 10mm. Our guide to measuring doors walks you through it step by step.

Think about which way the door opens and which side the hinges are on. Most back doors open inward, and the top half needs space to swing back against a wall.

Things to check

• Will the top half clear wall cupboards, light switches or a window when it opens?
• Do you need a low threshold for easy access to the garden?
• Do you want glass in the top half, or a solid panel for privacy?

Made-to-measure doors are made to your sizes, so they can’t be returned for a change of mind. If you are not sure about anything, call us on 020 3488 9299.

Quick answers

Are stable doors secure?

Yes. Each half has its own lock, and a bolt joins the two halves. When both halves are closed and locked, the door is as secure as a standard composite door.

Can a stable door be used as a front door?

Yes, it works well on cottages and farmhouses. Choose a design and glass that give you the privacy you need.

Can I open both halves together?

Yes. Slide the bolt across and the two halves open and close as one door.

Do you fit stable doors?

We supply only. You can find an installer to fit your door.

Design and price a stable door →