How to Trim Out a Pocket Door

A pocket door is as simple as its name implies; a pocketed door. Yet it’s beyond its simple workings lies a complex set of mechanisms that allow a pocket door to work correctly. Simple physics make it work yet many steps are employed to bring about a final product, the sliding pocket door.

Typically installed during the framing stages of new construction, a pocket door is built into the house from the blueprint. A pocket door can be installed during a remodel, provided certain conditions are met. The wall the pocket door is to be installed in is not bearing, contains no HVAC, plumbing and electric and is wide enough to fit the pocket door.

This article is written for someone who has already installed the pocket door frame, installed the pocket door slab and is ready for trim out. All tile, vinyl or wood floors should be completed; carpet should not. I have written several articles on installing pocket doors, frames and slabs, so check those out if you haven’t made it to trim out yet.

Begin by cutting to length the two side pieces of trim that surround the door. To do this, first make a mark on each of the upper two corners of the door opening 1/8″ in. This 1/8″ is known as the trims reveal. Make a mark on the header track and each side. Measure from the floor up to where the two lines intersect, and then transfer this measurement to the trim piece.

Each side of the trim is marked and cut differently. The thinnest part of the trims profile goes to the inside of the opening. Measure on this side of the trim and make a mark, then repeat on the opposite piece of trim. The marks you make are inside or short points of a 45 degree angle. Place on a miter saw and cut each piece, then attach them to the opening using 4d finish nails and liquid nail. Measure and cut the top piece and attach the same way. Repeat the trim process for the other side of the door opening.

Once the two sides are trimmed in, the lathe strips are next. Use 1 ½ x ¾” lathe, beveled or profiled strips to cover the inside edge of the pocket door frame, jamb and header. I like to leave a small reveal covering the edge of the trim, but you can simply let it go flush with the trims back; it’s your call. Measure from the floor up to the header for the first piece, cutting it at a 45 degree angle at the top and attaching it with 4d finish nails. Repeat for each of the other three sides, and then cut and install the four header pieces.

Make sure the door slides in between the trim correctly and then counter sink your nails with a nail punch. You are now ready to install the handle and lock.

Reference:

• www.helpfulhandymanhints.com