Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Basic Installation Of A Pocket Door Set For Basement Finishing Remodels

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 relatively simple even for the average home owner. The typical tools needed are a drywall saw to cut out drywall. A screwdriver is used to mount any hardware like tracks and handles. A tape measure and skill saw for measuring and cutting. A pencil for marking down measurements and a hammer to help remove any unwanted nails or other debris.

It is best to start by removing the old door and frame completely and removing any drywall on the side of the wall the door will be sliding into. Remove any studs that are in the way and install the header the rails will attach to. Make sure that any studs removed are not structural and no plumbing or electrical is in the way of.

The doors typically slide through what framers call, split studs. They are like regular 2x4 studs but are hollow and constructed from metal-wood composites. These must be hung from your header and then attached to the floor-boards. It is important that the split studs are installed straight and plumb so they do not cause 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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