We’re getting ready to ditch our dining room, and transform our dedicated dining space into an office/ guest room combo. In addition to building walls to close off the space, we’re considering installing double pocket doors for a touch of drama.
If you’re also looking to revamp your space, pocket doors can be a fantastic addition.
In contrast to trendy/ out of trend “barn doors” that run on an exposed track, pocket doors slide seamlessly into the wall, optimizing space and adding a unique touch to any room. And unlike barn doors, pocket doors have been around forever, and are considered a timeless, yet dramatic feature in a home. And just like a swing door, they can lock and shut tightly, too.
In this post, I’ve put together what I’ve found all about pocket doors to understand the detailed steps to install them.
Before we get into the steps, let’s answer some questions that I (and probably you, too!) have about these specialty doors.
Are Pocket Doors Hard to Maintain?
Maintaining pocket doors is surprisingly easy. To ensure smooth operation, it’s important to keep the track clean and free from debris. Regularly clean the track by wiping it down with a damp cloth or a mild cleaning solution. Clear away any obstructions or debris that may accumulate over time. Additionally, lubricate the track using a silicone-based spray to prevent sticking or squeaking. By following these simple maintenance practices, your pocket doors will continue to operate smoothly for years to come.
Do You Install Pocket Doors Before Drywall?
Typically, pocket doors are installed during the construction or renovation phase, before the drywall is installed. This allows for proper framing and seamless integration with the surrounding walls. However, it is possible to replace pocket doors into an existing wall without removing the drywall. This process requires careful planning and additional modifications to accommodate the door and track within the existing structure.
The Home Talk has a post about how they installed a pocket door into an existing wall, and they outline their exact plan to execute this project; they did have to remove a small part of the drywall to achieve this.
Why Are Pocket Doors So Expensive?
Pocket doors can be more expensive than traditional doors due to the specialized hardware required. The cost includes a sturdy track system, door hangers, rollers, and guides. You can buy all of these materials in a kit system. The kit pictured below is highly rated on Amazon. Buy it HERE.
Here is how all those parts work together, if you want a good visual of that:
Additionally, retrofitting pocket doors into an existing wall may require professional expertise, contributing to the overall expenses. However, the space-saving benefits and aesthetic appeal of pocket doors make them a worthwhile investment in your home.
Additionally, if you don’t want to purchase a kit, you can create your own frame and track yourself, but I wouldn’t advise that unless you have building experience. Even a seasoned carpenter has written about how detailed you have to be to create the pocket just right. You can read about that HERE.
Can I Use My Existing Door as a Pocket Door?
Using your existing door as a pocket door is possible, but it depends on the door’s suitability for the conversion.
Solid-core or hollow-core doors are generally more conducive to this transformation. These types of doors, commonly found in interior settings, provide the necessary structure and weight distribution required for pocket doors.
On the other hand, doors made of solid wood or with intricate glasswork may not be ideal for conversion due to their weight and potential structural challenges. It’s important to assess the suitability of your existing door before proceeding with the pocket door conversion.
You can spruce up a hollow core door before you use it as a pocket door. Ryan Hobbies has an excellent article about his installation using regular hollow-core doors that he’s jujed up.
Step-by-Step Pocket Door Installation Guide
Step 1: Measure Twice, Install Once
Begin by measuring the doorframe opening accurately. Record the height and width of the space to ensure a perfect fit for your pocket doors.
Step 2: Cleaning and Clearing the Track
Prior to installation, thoroughly clean the track using a damp cloth or a mild cleaning solution. This step ensures smooth door operation by removing any dirt or debris. Clear away any obstructions that may impede the sliding motion of the pocket doors, allowing for seamless functionality.
Step 3: Installing into an Existing Wall
If you’re retrofitting pocket doors into an existing wall, careful planning and additional steps are necessary. Begin by creating a new opening in the wall, ensuring it is wide enough to accommodate the pocket doors. Frame the new opening according to the manufacturer’s instructions, providing ample support for the track and door system. Follow the remaining installation steps outlined below to complete the pocket door installation process.
The blog Cass Makes Home outlines this process in such great detail when they tackled pocket doors in their primary bathroom. It is definitely worth the read, and it is super helpful.
HomeTalk also outlines this process with plenty of clear photos of the renovation. The photo below demonstrates the pocket door kit already installed into the pre-existing wall.
Step 4: Track Installation
Attach the track along the top of the doorframe using screws and a power drill. Ensure the track is level, as this is essential for smooth door operation. Use a spirit level to verify the horizontal alignment before securing it in place.
Step 5: Door Hangers and Rollers
Attach the door hangers and rollers to the top of your pocket doors. These components act as the wheels that allow the doors to slide along the track. Align them with the pre-drilled holes in the doors and secure them in place using screws. Take a moment to admire how these simple additions elevate your salvaged doors into functional masterpieces.
Step 6: Mounting the Doorframe Hardware
Now it’s time to install the doorframe hardware to ensure your pocket doors stay on track. Begin by attaching the door guides on the floor, which will prevent the doors from swinging back and forth. These guides are essential for maintaining the proper alignment and smooth operation of the doors. Then, securely fasten the door pulls or handles of your choice. This is your opportunity to add a personal touch and showcase your unique style. Whether you opt for sleek and modern or rustic and vintage, the choice is yours!
Chris Loves Julia has amazing tips about the framing step and what kits are best to use. They installed pocket doors for their primary closet. The same bloggers have experience hanging soft close pocket doors in their primary bathroom.
Step 7: Testing, Testing!
Congratulations, you’ve reached the final step of this transformative journey! Give those pocket doors a test drive by sliding them open and closed. Observe the smoothness of their movement and the newfound versatility they bring to your space. Take a moment to appreciate your hard work and the remarkable transformation you’ve accomplished.
If you need more visual help with installation, BHG also has a wonderful step-by-step guide with plenty of photos as well to add to the collection I’ve found.
Once the doors are fully installed, cleaning the track is a bit trickier because the doors are in place, but it can still be done with a few simple steps.
Start by fully opening the doors and securing them in the open position. This will give you access to the track. Use a vacuum cleaner with a narrow attachment to remove any dust or loose debris from the track. Alternatively, you can use a small brush or a cloth to gently sweep away any dirt. If the track is particularly dirty, you can dampen a cloth with a mild cleaning solution and carefully wipe the track, ensuring it is completely dry before closing the doors.
Do you have pocket doors? What are your feelings about them? How have they held up? Let me know your recommendations or if you think we should go for it!