Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Installation Tips For A Basic Pocket Door Set For Basement Finishing Projects

By Angela Briggs


One of the things that older homes generally have that puts them apart from most homes is the pocket door set. What really makes them interesting is that they slide into and are generally concealed by the outer wall. This is typically unlike regular doors which swing out facing one way in plain sight. This works out better for basement finishing jobs to help give the rooms the appearance of having a larger area.

Typically there are two general types of sliding doors that can come in several different forms. This just sounds kinda confusing. The first kind is called the single type. This one uses a single door which slides either right or left in the wall when it is opened up. The second type is called the double. This kind has two sliding doors, with one moving to the right side and one moving to the left side when opened.

A typical installation is often a simple matter even for the normal house owner. The general tools they need are a saw for cutting drywall. A screwdriver set for attaching the hardware like handles and tracks. A good skill saw and tape measure for cutting and measuring. A graphite pencil to mark any measurements down and a good hammer to take out any nails and debris.

It is best to begin by completely taking out the old door and its frame and cutting the drywall on whichever side of your wall it will be sliding inside. Remove any studs which could be in the way before installing the upper header for the rails to attach to. Ensure that all studs that get removed are not structural ones and that the plumbing and electrical is moved.

The doors generally slide through what is called split studs. They act like regular studs but are hollow and made from a metal wood composite. These have to be hung from the header and attached to the floor. It is critical that these split studs are straight and plumb to prevent any binding.

Install the headers hanging brackets. Make sure your bracket is secured, slide the wheels for the track in it. Secure the door onto the wheels and make sure the bracket pins are slipped into place. Attach the lower guide after first checking that it will operate without any binding in the frame.

Install the pulls that are inside the kit along with your handles or locks. Cut some drywall to fix the holes the you made. Then sand, primer and paint your drywall so it will match the other walls. Install any other trim using small finish nails. Finish by cleaning your area up so it is free from any debris and left over scrap.

Remember this is just a brief overview of how to install a pocket door for a basement finishing job. It is generally best to read any assembly instructions while following them both carefully and completely. It is also good to have friends or family over to help on your project. Installed right it will delight your family friends friends for many years to come.




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