How To Install French Pocket Doors

Be sure to screw the brackets into the studs.

How to install french pocket doors.

Measure cut and install trim around the door starting with the top header trim piece and then the side jambs. For the casing trim outside use finish nails just long enough to bite into the 2 x 4s longer nails might extend too far into the door chamber and scratch the door during opening and closing. Reinstall the door and then install the door guides on the inside and outside of the door at the mouth of the pocket. Use the long level and carpenter s square to make sure the inside of the opening is square and true.

Whether you are installing interior or exterior doors be sure to plan for space around the door swing. Installation costs do not differ by material. For doors 1 3 8 inches thick install the track 7 8 inches from the header. Unlike pocket doors and sliding doors french doors command more space for operation.

Next install the slider track using the rails that came in your pocket door kit. Remove trim carefully so you don t damage it and label the pieces as you go to make putting them back up easier. When installing double or french pocket models the largest cost consideration is in the demolition rewiring and framing of the space required. Finish the joints with drywall tape and several coats of drywall compound.

Then put the hardware and door into the slider track. For doors inch thick install the track flush with the header. Remove the old frame around the opening with a hammer and pry bars where you want to install french doors. Fiberglass doors are a great alternative to traditional wooden doors they are easy to maintain and offer superb durability insulation and versatility in appearance and style.

If needed use a hand saw to cut the track that came with your pocket door hardware so that it s 1 8 inch shorter than the opening. To install exterior french doors you can follow similar instructions to those on the previous page for installing interior french doors though you have to remember to seal your opening carefully to protect the interior of your home from the elements. These are heavier than hollow core wood doors so they will be a little more expensive to secure and install. A popular choice for exterior doors steel provides superior security and weather resistance without proper care these doors may rust over time.

Remove the door and then install drywall over the door pocket using construction adhesive and 1 inch drywall screws. Install the track according to the thickness of the header. Then cut the exposed studs to make room for the new framing.