The 5 best pocket door brands

Pocket Door Buying Guide

Are you redesigning your home and looking for ways to free up space? Consider installing pocket doors. Pocket doors are sliding doors that disappear into the walls when opened, freeing up floor space and eliminating door swing. Pocket doors are perfect for small spaces with limited door swing or for creating open floor plans. In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to consider before purchasing a pocket door.

1. Pocket Door Types

There are two types of pocket doors: single-pocket doors and double-pocket doors.

Single-pocket doors

Single-pocket doors are the most common type of pocket doors. These doors slide into a single pocket within the wall. Single-pocket doors are ideal for small spaces and single doorways. They are also more affordable compared to double-pocket doors.

Double-pocket doors

Double-pocket doors, also known as “barn-style” doors, slide into two pockets on opposite sides of the door frame. They are ideal for larger spaces and double doorways. Double-pocket doors are more expensive because they require two tracks and two pockets.

2. Pocket Door Styles

Pocket doors come in a variety of styles to match your home’s aesthetic.

Flush doors

Flush doors are the most popular type of pocket doors. The door slides into the wall and sits flush with the wall when closed, creating a seamless look. Flush doors are perfect for modern or minimalist homes.

Paneled doors

Paneled doors have a classic look with raised or recessed panels on the door faces. Paneled doors are perfect for traditional or classic homes.

Glass doors

Glass pocket doors allow natural light to flow through rooms while providing privacy when needed. Glass pocket doors are perfect for contemporary or modern homes.

3. Pocket Door Size

Pocket doors are available in standard sizes or can be custom-sized to fit your specific needs. Standard single-pocket doors come in 24-, 28-, 30-, and 32-inch widths. Standard double-pocket doors come in 48-, 56-, 60-, and 64-inch widths.

It’s important to measure the doorway carefully to ensure that you purchase the right size pocket door. Measure the height, width, and depth of the doorway before making a purchase.

4. Pocket Door Materials

Pocket doors are available in a variety of materials to match your home’s aesthetic and budget.

Wood

Wood is the most popular material for pocket doors. Wood doors can be painted or stained to match your home’s décor. Wood is a durable and long-lasting material, but it can be expensive.

MDF

MDF, or medium-density fiberboard, is a less expensive alternative to wood. MDF doors are made from wood fibers and resin, and they can be painted or stained to match your home’s décor. MDF doors are not as durable as wood doors and are more susceptible to moisture damage.

Glass

Glass pocket doors create a modern and sleek look. Glass doors can be transparent or frosted for privacy. Glass is a durable material, but it can be more expensive than wood or MDF.

5. Pocket Door Hardware

Pocket doors require specific hardware to operate smoothly. The hardware needs to be durable enough to support the weight of the door.

Track systems

The track system is the most important part of the pocket door hardware. The track system supports the door and allows it to slide smoothly into the pocket. Make sure to purchase a track system that is durable and designed for your door’s weight.

Roller guides

Roller guides are attached to the top of the door and guide the door along the track system. Roller guides need to be durable and able to bear the weight of the door.

Door pulls

Door pulls are used to open and close the door from the outside. Door pulls come in a variety of styles and finishes to match your home’s décor.

6. Pocket Door Installation

Pocket door installation is a complex process that should be completed by a professional. A pocket door system includes the door, the pocket frame, the track system, and the hardware. The installation process involves cutting a hole in the wall, creating the pocket frame, installing the track system, and hanging the door.

Make sure to hire a reputable contractor with experience in pocket door installation. The contractor should be licensed and insured.

7. Pocket Door Cost

Pocket door prices vary depending on the size, material, and hardware. Single-pocket doors are less expensive compared to double-pocket doors. Wood pocket doors are more expensive compared to MDF or glass pocket doors.

Pocket door installation costs vary depending on the complexity of the job and the contractor’s fees. It’s important to get multiple quotes from reputable contractors before making a final decision.

Conclusion

Pocket doors are a perfect addition to any home. They free up floor space, eliminate door swing, and create an open floor plan. When purchasing a pocket door, consider the type, style, size, materials, hardware, installation, and cost. With the right pocket door, you can create a functional and beautiful home.