Frequently Asked Questions About Pocket Doors: Your Ultimate Guide
Pocket doors are becoming a popular choice for homeowners and designers looking to save space and enhance their interiors. Whether you’re considering them for a new build or a renovation, here’s a rundown of the most frequently asked questions we receive to help you decide if pocket doors are the right fit for your space.
1. What Exactly Are Pocket Doors?
Pocket doors are sliding doors that "disappear" into a cavity wall when opened. Unlike traditional hinged doors, they don’t require any space to swing, making them ideal for rooms with limited square footage. In comparison to standard sliding doors, pocket doors offer a minimalistic appearance as all hardware is concealed within the wall.
2. Are Pocket Doors Easy to Install?
While installing pocket doors is more complex than traditional hinged doors, it can be done successfully with professional installation. At P C Henderson, our range of pocket door systems come with comprehensive fitting instructions and an installation video to guide installers through the fitting process.
3. What Are the Benefits of Pocket Doors?
- Space-saving: Perfect for small spaces or areas where a swing door would be impractical.
- Sleek & Modern Design: Pocket doors offer a clean, contemporary look that fits any interior.
- Improved Flow: They provide an uninterrupted flow between rooms, which is great for open-concept designs.
- Accessibility: Ideal for accessible design, allowing for easy movement and flow of traffic.
4. What Types of Rooms Are Pocket Doors Best For?
Pocket doors work well in almost any room, but they are especially great for:
- Bathrooms: Save space while maintaining privacy.
- Living Areas: Create an open plan concept whilst still having the option to close off spaces when needed.
- Utility Rooms: Save valuable floor space in your kitchen area.
5. Are Pocket Doors Easy to Maintain?
Yes! Pocket doors are extremely easy to maintain if installed correctly.
A few tips to ensure your pocket door runs smoothly are:
- During installation, ensure the track is free from debris to allow the hangers to run smoothly within the track.
- Ensure the cavity wall is free from wiring or screws which would effect the opening/closing of the door.
In case you need to remove the door after installation or require access to the hardware, our Pocket Door Pro has been designed with a track extension piece for easy maintenance.
6. Are Pocket Doors More Expensive Than Traditional Doors?
While pocket doors can be more expensive to install due to the necessary framing and hardware, the benefits they provide in terms of space-saving and design can be well worth the investment.
7. How Thick Does My Wall Have to be to House a Pocket Door?
Our Pocket Door Pro system requires a finished wall thickness of 120mm or 125mm. Our standard Pocket Door kit requires a finished wall thickness of 95mm.
8. What is a Pocket Door Liner Kit and Why Are They Important?
A pocket door liner kit, also known as a jamb kit, includes vertical and horizontal timber jambs which attaches to the leading edge of the pocket door frame to provide a professional, aesthetic finish. This creates a base in which the architrave is then fitted to.
A jamb kit typically includes brush strips to protect the pocket and prevents you from being able to see the hardware within the pocket. The kit also includes a jamb upright which has been recessed to match the shape of the door to prevent the flow of light between rooms when the door is closed.
At P C Henderson, we offer liner kits for both single and double pocket door applications.
In Conclusion: Pocket doors are a fantastic solution for maximizing space while maintaining a sleek, modern look. Whether you’re designing a new home or remodeling an existing one, pocket doors can add both functionality and beauty to your space. Have any other questions about pocket doors? Feel free to reach out, and we’d be happy to help!