Pocket Doors

Install pocket doors to create a unique look and increase usable square footage

Pocket doors are an important element of Victorian architecture that enjoyed a resurgence of popularity during the 1950s, and is again popular today. In recent years, contractors have been installing pocket doors more frequently at building owners' request.

It's little wonder that pocket doors are so popular when you consider that the typical door requires 8 to 10 square feet of floor space to swing open; regaining that space for business use makes good sense.

Pocket doors have been used in the following situations:

1. Laundry rooms, an advantage when designing apartment buildings.
2. Powder rooms, easing the traffic flow in busy public facilities.
3. Offices, using a single door for space efficiency of floor and walls.
4. Board rooms, creating a touch of elegance.

Explore the feasibility of pocket doors

In new construction, pocket doors can be implemented in the design phase. In existing construction, analyze how much space will be regained and whether pocket doors will improve traffic flow. In a crowded office area, for example, pocket doors can create the space for more offices. Pocket doors smooth traffic flow in and out of restrooms in busy public venues. In addition, handicapped customers enter and exit more easily with pocket doors in comparison to swinging doors.

Determine the amount of work needed to install pocket doors

In existing construction, analyze the labor needed before adding pocket doors. Two main styles of doors exist. The more familiar style consists of interior pocket doors, which slide into the wall. So-called exterior pocket doors either slide along a track outside the wall or function as exterior doors to the building, sliding along tracks. For exterior pocket doors that slide along a wall, installation of hardware is an easy project. For interior pocket doors, the project requires deconstructing an existing wall, installing the hardware and framing the opening.

Purchase pocket doors that harmonize with function and style

From French doors and ornate wooden doors to frosted glass doors, pocket door manufacturers provide a variety of styles. It is also possible to use standard doors up to 1 3/4-inches thick. Antique doors, while pricey, can be found at specialty dealers.

Find a contractor to install your pocket doors

In existing construction, an experienced contractor can reroute ductwork, pipes or wiring for pocket doors with a minimum of down time in the affected area. You also want the new pocket door to blend seamlessly into the space, so it is worth it to hire a professional.

• For trouble-free pocket doors, sellers of high-quality hardware are your best bet. Stick with one of the major manufacturers or their distributors to ensure that your doors don't stick or jump the tracks.

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