Learn how to install pocket door hardware in 5 steps:
So, you want to learn how to install pocket door hardware?
Well, you’ve come to the right place. Either read the article below, or watch the free video course to learn how.
Pocket doors are still a popular choice for homes, offices, and other buildings for residents who want an entryway to appear “door-less” and open, and yet be able to block sound, visuals, or create a sense of privacy when they need it. If you like a somewhat open concept and want to have open entry ways, but still want the ability to block off sound or shut a door to be able to have a meeting, conversation, or achieve some privacy, a pocket door is a great solution. Essentially, pocket doors are doors on sliders that hide away in the wall when not used. Typically they employ a handle or latch that, when pulled, slides the door across the entry way, effectively “closing” it.
This article will walk you through a 5 step process of how to install pocket door hardware: the actual handle and latch system that allows you to slide the door across the entryway. Whether you’ve just purchased and installed a new pocket door, or whether your looking to refurbish and restore an existing pocket door, we’ll walk you through installing your new hardware. The basic process involves installing a catch on the wall or surface that you’re sliding the door into, and a pull lever (so you can actually grab and slide the door) on the door itself. To watch the free, full video course- click here.
Tools you’ll need:
Here’s a list of some of the tools you’ll need to get started:
- Jigsaw
- Cordless Drill
- Hammer
- Marking Pencil
- Electric Screwdriver
- Measuring Tape
- Speed Square
- Chisel
- Paddle Bit
- Drill Bit – for the “pilot” hole (we’ll explain this later)
Watch this video to learn more about the tools you’ll need:
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How to install your pocket door hardware in 5 steps:
Step 1- Read the directions: Wherever you purchased your pocket door hardware, start by reading the directions that come with the door hardware that you purchased. Make sure that the hardware is for the thickness and the type of door that you are installing the hardware for, and take note of any warnings or special notes the manufacturer gives. This is where you’ll find specific measurements such as door latch height, which you’ll need in step
Step 2- Measure the door latch height: Determine the recommended height of the door latch (the handle you’ll pull the door with) as per the manufacturer directions for the pocket door hardware. Typically, this involves measuring off of the floor, to the center of your door (see below) and make mark with your pencil. This is the exact center of where you want your door latch to be.
Now that you have the center point of your door latch, use the manufacturer’s instructions to determine how to measure above, and below that center point so that account for the full height of the door latch. In other words, when you’re done measuring above, and below the center point- you should have the exact sizing for your door latch and where it will be installed into the door. See example below (your hardware manufacturer will say different sizing than this example, so be sure to consult your instructions):Finally, measure how “deep” you’ll be installing your pull latch (refer to manufacturer’s instructions), and mark the door appropriately.
Step 3- Drill and cut for latch installation: Drill a “pilot hole” through the door at the lower corner of the marked area to be cut out. Use the pilot hole to insert the jigsaw blade and cut along the pre-marked lines. Cut along the lines with the jigsaw. Watch the video below to see how:
Step 4- Set and secure the hardware: Once you’ve cut out a section of the door, slide the latch in place. *Note: you might have to work with it a bit, as the latch should fit in nice and snug. You may tap the latch in place with a hammer if needed. When you have the hardware set in the cut-out, secure it in place (through drilling, etc.) per the manufacturer’s instructions. See the images and video below for more information.
If the hardware comes with a locking mechanism make sure that the mechanism can swing freely. If the latch is placed to deep, the locking mechanism can be restricted and may not work correctly. Secure the hardware to the door as instructed by the manufacturer.(watch the video below for an example)
Step 5 – Install the catch plate: Place the locking mechanism in the “locked position”. Now close the door gently, and allow the locking mechanism to strike the wooden door jamb, making a small mark or indent. This mark will be the location of the catch plate.
Place the mark at the lower side of the door catch opening and trace around the outside of the catch plate. Use a wood chisel to remove the skin of the wood jamb to a sufficient depth to allow the catch plate to be installed flush.
Use a paddle bit to drill the jamb out to allow for the locking mechanism to extend into the jamb and hook onto the catch plate. Watch the video below for more detail:
