How to Install a Pocket Door

One of the easiest ways to install a pocket door is to use a pocket door kit. It will give you some extra information you need as well as the ball bearing hangers and soft closer, the slider that you install the door onto and more.

Then, you’ll need to measure out twice the door’s width into the wall to ensure there’s enough pocket space in the wall to hold the door when it is opened.

You’ll also need to determine whether your wall is load bearing or not. If your wall is load bearing, it is strongly recommended to consult a structural engineer before installing a pocket door in that space, as the wall will likely require additional support like a heavy beam above the opening to handle the load the wall was originally carrying. This can add significant cost to your project, so be sure to check.

Use a stud/live wire finder and make note of where any studs, electrical wiring or plumbing are. If you need to relocate electrical wires, it is recommended to call a professional electrician.

If your space or wall is smaller, consider using a small or medium-sized door in place of a larger one.

Next, you’ll need to remove the existing door (if necessary) as well as any moulding or trim from around your doorway. Be sure to lay a drop cloth across your floor to prevent any damage, and wear eye protection.

Start by taking the existing door off it’s frame by removing the hinges. Once the door is off, continue to pry off the moulding using a pry bar or the back of a hammer. If there are any shims or nails, you can use a reciprocating saw to cut them.

Once your door is removed and your moulding taken off, you’ll now need to cut away any drywall and studs that are in the way of your new pocket door area.

Start by removing the drywall on the section of the wall where the pocket door will recede into when opened. With the drywall removed, it’s now easier to check for any plumbing, electrical wires or other obstructions.

Cut away any studs in the area of your pocket door recess area. 

Your pocket door will probably need a new header at a higher height, so you’ll need to check your pocket door slider kit’s instructions to get the exact measurements. Most doors are 80 inches, so your new stud header should be placed at approximately 84 ½ inches, ensuring a gap for the door track. Use a brad nailer to secure the header to the studs.

Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to assemble the pocket door slider kit. Be sure to attach the track inside the header and ensure it is level. Then, you can secure the track firmly using screws and a drill.

Start by installing the metal studs into the track. Then mount the hangers on the top edge of the door and then slide the wheeled carriages into the track. Now hook the door onto the carriages, and make sure that it hangs straight. Use a level to be certain. Ensure that the door opens and closes smoothly and evenly into and out of the recessed pocket.

Now you need to repair the drywall. So hang new sheets and cut them to fit. Use drywall screws to fasten them to the studs. Once your drywall is up, you’ll need to mud and tape it, and once dry, sand it to a smooth finish to get ready for paint.

Use a drill to attach the pocket door latch to the door and frame as per the kit’s instructions.

Lastly, cut and install your new trim around the doorway and the pocket opening. Use a brad nailer to secure the trim and fill any nail holes with putty, then sand and paint it to match your room’s design.