Pocket doors seem to be coming back into fashion recently, as opposed to previous structures, which tend to have tracks hanging over the wall, and tracks can also be part of a decorative home. Pocket doors are sliding doors that disappear into a cavity within the wall when fully opened. Unlike traditional doors that swing open and require space, pocket doors slide along a track and retract into the wall, effectively saving space and improving room flow. This is particularly useful in tight areas where swinging doors could be obstructive.

Here are some common questions about pocket door.

Can I lock the pocket door?

Pocket doors can be equipped with locks, though the options might be more limited compared to traditional doors. When choosing a lock for a pocket door, it’s important to ensure that the hardware is compatible with the sliding mechanism and that the installation is done properly to avoid any issues with the door’s operation.

• Privacy Locks: A privacy lock can be installed in most pocket doors, and it is ideal for use in bathrooms or bedrooms where privacy will be required to be established. These types of locks rely on a simple mechanism which functions under engagement with a latch securing the door in position.
• Keyed Locks : Some pocket doors have keyed locks added to them for greater security, but this could be through special solutions or specialty hardware. Less common, yet to those in demand, are keyed locks.
• Flush-Mount Locks : Flush-mount locks are installed flush to the door surface, which is well-suited to the smooth, clean look of pocket doors. They function in much the same way as standard locks but are built to accommodate the sliding motion.

Are pocket doors ada compliant?

• ADA instructions require the door to be at least 32 inches wide when the door is open. The pocket door should be installed in a way that allows this will at full opening. The space where the door slips into the wall should also not be without restrictions.
• ADA compatible doors usually require to open and close less power, so the sliding mechanism of the pocket door should be smooth and not difficult to maneuver.
• The handles or strokes on the pocket should be installed at a height that is accessible for people with different heights and abilities, usually between 34 and 48 inches from the floor.
• The construction should ensure that the pocket doors do not create a barrier or obstacle when they are open or closed. The area around the door should be without obstacles.

How to replace a pocket door?

• Use a pry bar or utility knife to carefully remove the trim around the door frame. This might involve removing nails or screws. Unscrew or unfasten any hardware, such as the door handle or latch.
• If the door is stuck, use a crowbar to gently pry it open so that the door can slide smoothly into the open position for access to the top rollers and tracks. Remove the roller from the top and remove it from the track. Carefully slide out and remove from the track. Dispose of door scraps or recycle as needed. Remove the old track and any remaining door frame assembly. Check whether the wall needs to be repaired or cleaned to ensure the smooth installation of the new door.
• Mount the roller on top of the new door according to the manufacturer’s installation guide. Place the roller on the track and slowly slide the door into the slot. Make sure the door moves smoothly in the track and is the correct fit for the door frame. Level the roller or the track to have the door level and running smoothly. Verify the sliding and adjustment of the door a number of times to comply with standards. Refit the trim strip on the door frame with filling and patching as necessary. Fit hardware accessories such as door handles and locks for proper functionality.

Can the wall be fitted with pocket doors?

• Gypsum (light section): Suitable for: plasterboard is the most common type of wall to install pocket doors. Because the inner structure of the plasterboard usually allows you to create space (ie “pockets”) for sliding doors inside the wall.
• Bearing wall load: The wall structure bearing load is more complicated because it promotes the weight of the entire building. Installation of a pocket door may require overhaul or reinforcement of walls to ensure structural stability.
• Brick or concrete walls: brick or concrete walls are more difficult to install, because these walls are very strong and maybe drill and cut to form pockets.
• Wooden walls are usually suitable for installing the door pockets, because the inner structure of wooden walls is easier to work and modify.