Whether you are installing a single or double pocket door, the first thing you should do is make sure you have a great rough opening. The rough opening is the foundation of your system and should be at least a few inches wider than the intended door slab. A good rough opening should allow the door to slide into the wall and be level. Without this, the pocket door may be prone to wiggle and droop.
The best way to ensure you have a solid rough opening is to measure the width and height of the desired door slab. If you’re installing a 30 inch door, for example, your rough opening should be 61 inches wide and 84 inches tall. You’ll also want to give yourself enough clearance for the top and bottom plates. This means the floor should be leveled and sanded before you begin the framing process.
The pocket door is a heavy duty product and requires a strong fastener that penetrates deep into the drywall. For added security, foam stops can be fitted to the back stud.
Besides having a great rough opening, you should also install a quality hardware set. Not only does a quality hardware kit have all the right tools, but it can also provide a hassle free installation. It’s important to choose the right components, such as a sturdy slat system, adjustable slats, and a solid bottom plate.
The best pocket door framing kit should also come with a great set of instructions. Some manufacturers even offer finished jambs, which are a great way to save some money. Other times, you may need to fabricate your own. However, there are a few tips to make the task easier on you.
One of the most important steps is to sand the rough cut edges of the finish jambs. If the rough cutting is done correctly, you should end up with a beautiful, finished product. Of course, if the cut is not perfect, it may require more sanding than you bargained for. Also, it’s a good idea to sand the top of the door panel.
While the pocket door is obviously the most important part of your pocket door frame, you’ll need to give the rest of the assembly a little attention. First, remove the drywall and shims. Next, use an electric miter saw to cut the frame down to the appropriate size. Be sure to deduct 1 inch for the drywall and the lath or plaster walls.
You should also use a T-square to make sure the frame is square. Ideally, the front of the frame should be flush with the wall and the back should be level. In addition, you should be careful to attach the side split jambs to the bottom plate. Assuming that the slats are evenly spaced, this should be a no brainer.
Finally, you’ll need to add a pocket door header. Unlike the standard door, a pocket door has a header, which is composed of metal track and nailing strips. These components aren’t bolted to the pocket jambs, but are instead attached to steel studs on the pocket side of the opening.