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25 November 2013

Basic Installation Of A Pocket Door Set For Basement Finishing Remodels

By Angela Briggs


One thing that older homes often have that sets them apart from the average home is a pocket door set. What makes them so interesting is they slide into what appears to be the wall and are concealed by the wall. This is unlike regular doors that swing out one way or another in plain sight. This works great for basement finishing projects to help give the appearance of more room.

Typically there are two general types of sliding doors that can come in several different forms. This just sounds kinda confusing. The first kind is called the single type. This one uses a single door which slides either right or left in the wall when it is opened up. The second type is called the double. This kind has two sliding doors, with one moving to the right side and one moving to the left side when opened.

The normal installation is simple and straight forward for even the average homeowner. The normal tools required are drywall saws to cut out any drywall. Screwdrivers for mounting any hardware like the tracks or handles. Tape measures and a skill saw to measure and cut various items. A lead pencil for marking any measurements and a claw hammer to remove all unwanted nails and other debris.

It is best to start by removing the old door and frame completely and removing any drywall on the side of the wall the door will be sliding into. Remove any studs that are in the way and install the header the rails will attach to. Make sure that any studs removed are not structural and no plumbing or electrical is in the way of.

The doors basically slide through 2-4 split studs. These studs act like regular ones but are hollowed out and composed from a wood-metal composite. They should be hung from a header and nailed to the floor. Also it is vital that any split studs remain plumb and straight to prevent possible binding.

Attach any hanging brackets onto the header. Ensure the brackets are tight, slide any track wheels inside it. Attach the doors to the wheels and ensure the bracket pins are put into place tightly. Install any bottom guides after making sure they operates smoothly without binding up inside the frame.

Install any pulls that are in the kit along with any handles and locks. Cut the drywall to repair the hole the you made. Sand, prime and paint the drywall to match the surrounding walls. Install any left over trim using pinch head finish nails. Finish up by cleaning the area up nicely so it is free of any debris or left over scrap.

Remember this is just a brief overview of how to install a pocket door for a basement finishing job. It is generally best to read any assembly instructions while following them both carefully and completely. It is also good to have friends or family over to help on your project. Installed right it will delight your family friends friends for many years to come.




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