With constant use, pocket doors tend to get out of adjustment. When this happens, the lower ends of the door tend to rub against the floor, preventing smooth movement. In those cases, it is necessary to make slight adjustments to get things back to normal.
Adjusting a pocket door isn’t such a simple task. That’s because you have to remove part of the door hardware to access the adjustment parts. In addition, you’ll need to have special tools that aren’t exactly easy to find in any hardware store.
Today you’ll know each and every one of the steps you must follow to make the difficult task of adjusting a pocket door a total breeze. Without complicated procedures and applying a simple methodology, you’ll be able to adjust any type of pocket door.
You’ll also know some essential aspects to choose the most appropriate type of pocket door according to the characteristics of the installation site. Pay attention and try not to miss any important details.
How to Select a Perfect Pocket Door
To choose the perfect pocket door you must know very well:
- Installation site conditions
- Entrance width
- Door use
Below, you’ll find a detailed explanation of each and every one of these important aspects that you should take into account before making the final decision.
Installation Site Conditions
First, you should know if the walls are wide enough to hold the pocket doors. Most pocket doors have a minimum thickness of 35 millimeters. Therefore, the walls must be at least 100 millimeters thick.
Second, you must choose the shape of the door according to the shape of the container wall. It’s true that most of the walls are straight. However, in some cases the walls could be round. A very common feature in modern architecture homes.
For these cases, it would be convenient to buy a curved pocket door or request a custom door manufacturing.
Third, you must take into account the hardness of the walls or the presence of an obstacle in the place. If the walls are already built and are too sturdy, it isn’t convenient to demolish them to install pocket doors.
Nor is it convenient to do so when there are important elements inserted into the walls, such as pipes, cables, air conditioners or radiators. In those cases, it’s better to opt for doors with external sliding tracks.
Entrance Width
The width of the entrance will help you decide the ideal size and type of pocket door you need. For example, for a normal entrance with a width between 62.5-82.5 cm, one door is sufficient. Make sure the door is wide enough to block the entire entrance.
For a 125-145 cm wide entrance, you must use double pocket doors. Remember that you must choose a suitable mounting hardware, according to the characteristics of the doors.
For example, if the doors are light, such as those made of PVC, a rail at the top is sufficient to provide stability. If they’re heavier, such as those of solid hardwood, it would be convenient to install an upper and lower rail.
Door Use
You should also keep in mind the use that you’ll give to your pocket doors. For example, to provide privacy and comfort in rooms and bathrooms, single models are the most convenient. Don’t forget about locking system you like to use in such case. If you like to lock the door from both sides then must check the door locking feature.
On the other hand, to separate two different spaces, such as a kitchen from a dining room, the double models are the most appropriate.
Step by Step Guide to Adjust A Pocket Door
Adjusting a pocket door is easier than you imagine. You just have to do the following:
- Remove the upper door trim and the adjacent side board to discover the adjusting nut.
- Turn the nut locking lever to the left. It’s that little piece of plastic around the adjusting nut.
- Then, adjust the height of the door by turning the adjusting nut with a 3/8-inch pocket door wrench.
- Finally, when the door is in the right position, place the nut locking lever in its original. Then reinstall the side board and the door trim.
Removing your old pocket door is nearly similar to this one. Following few steps you can do it easily like an expert.
Conclusion
It’s convenient to adjust all your pocket doors periodically. Doing this will prevent wear on the lower part of the door and scratches on the floor. Make sure you have all the necessary tools before starting work.
If you don’t have a clear idea of what type of pocket door to install in your home, follow the useful tips in this article to make the best decision.