A pocket door hangs on carriers that travel on an overhead track. The door slides between split jambs inside the wall. A bumper at the frame’s rear or the door’s side keeps the door from sliding too far into the wall. Guides on the floor keep the door from rattling inside the frame. For a successful installation, there must be room for the pocket door to travel inside the wall. In addition, the wall must be wide enough for the door and free of plumbing, wiring, or ductwork. Pocket door frames are available at many home centers. They come as a unit with the track already attached, making installation easy. In some cases, you may need to buy separate parts—including individual split jambs, spacers for the jambs, wheel carriers, and the overhead track—and install them one at a time. Before you begin, make sure there’s room for the pocket door to slide into the wall. Also, make sure you have enough time to devote to installation. Protect your space by covering the floor with a drop cloth. Once the rough opening is done, expect to spend half a day installing the pocket door frame, the drywall, and the door; then a day or two more to finish the wall.
