Muted d string barre chords

1. Why are my barre chords muted?
2. Are barre chords easier with light strings?

Why are my barre chords muted?

But it then means you either miss the fat bottom string when you strum, or mute it - usually with the tip of the index finger, some players use their thumb wrapped round. Bear in mind that the barre finger only needs to press on the (6th) 5th and top strings. Use the side not the fleshy pad part of that finger.

Are barre chords easier with light strings?

While thicker strings produce a better tone, they also make barre chords harder to play, at least for guitarists who are just getting started with playing barre chords. A good temporary solution is to change to a lighter gauge of strings that will make barre chords easier to play.