Decorating your own space is exciting, but choosing the right door can be pretty confusing. If you live in a tiny space, pocket doors are incredible space-savers. However, before you install a pocket door, make sure you buy the necessary pocket door hardware.
The best pocket door hardware will be sturdy, look sleek, come with mounting hardware, and be durable enough to last for a long time. The hardware compatible with your pocket door will vary with the door thickness. Hence, measure the thickness of your pocket door to choose the right hardware.
To help you spend your hard-earned money wisely for pocket doors installation, we have done adequate research on the best pocket door hardware available in the market today. This article will talk about the top 8 pocket door hardware along with a buying guide and installation process.
Pocket Door Hardware: Overview
A pocket door is one that slides into the adjacent wall when it is opened. These are popularly used in small apartments or for architectural effects. While pocket doors are very convenient if you live in a studio apartment, its installation requires good-quality hardware.
There are different types of pocket door hardware like latches, edge pulls, lock, hinges, flush pulls, etc. These also come in different shapes, sizes, and finishes. Before you purchase any of them, you have to measure the thickness of your door. The detailed buying guide section in this article will give you a clearer idea about the factors to consider while purchasing pocket door hardware.
If you search for pocket door hardware, you will find numerous brands that offer pocket doors and hardware that differ in shape, size, color, and quality. This video includes tips from a pro architect for choosing the right pocket door hardware:
8 Best Pocket Door Hardware in 2020
Here are the top 8 pocket door hardware currently available in the market:
1. Baldwin Estate Pocket Door Narrow Edge Pull
Baldwin Estate is a popular brand that designs sleek and functional pocket door hardware. This brass edge pull is well made with a super-slim profile. It can be completely tucked into the door, thereby minimizing the amount of space it takes.
The pulling mechanism of this hardware is spring-loaded. This means that you can retrieve it easily while closing the pocket door. Additionally, if you want a pocket door hardware that goes well with the classic decor in your home, you may want to choose the Baldwin Estate pull as it has a satin nickel finish.
- 3/4"W x 3 7/8"H x 1 5/8" projection
- For use on pocket doors
- Spring loaded edge pull returns lever flush with face...
If you are not familiar with tools, this pull’s installation process can be a bit difficult. Although the pack comes with the necessary installation pieces like knobs, tracks, handles, and door hinges, you may need a professional’s help to install it. However, If you have used tools before, this will not be a problem.
Baldwin pocket door hardware is ideal to use with hallway, laundry, closet, and bathroom pocket doors. It is highly durable and makes opening and closing the pocket door hassle-free. It is available in different finishes, so you can choose one based on your preferences.
Pros
- Sleek and stylish design
- Solid forged brass
- The pulling mechanism is spring-loaded, hence easily retrievable
- Satin nickel color goes with all kinds of home decor
- Fits in most pocket doors
- Highly durable
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Available in different finishes
- Best for hallway, laundry, closet, and bathroom pocket doors
Cons
- Installation can be challenging if you have not used the tools
- The screws in the pack are cheap, so these can break off easily (you may need extra screws in case this happens)
2. Johnson 1500 Soft Commercial Pocket Door Hardware
Johnson 1500 pocket door frame is made in the US and offers a lifetime warranty. If anything in the kit gets damaged or breaks, you can request full reimbursement or a replacement. This 30” x 80” (76 x 203 cm) pocket door frame can be used to install a pocket door into a 2×4 stud wall.
It is very easy to install this hardware as the kit includes everything you need to install the pocket door. You can also find detailed installation instructions. Even if you are not familiar with tools, the installation process will be easy as you do not need to build a frame or do any kind of drilling.
- COMMERCIAL GRADE - The Soft Close and Open 1500 Series...
- UPGRADE TO STEEL - We are proud to slowly phase out the...
- SOFT-CLOSE AND OPEN OPERATION - Soft-close and open...
- EASY TO INSTALL - Comes with all necessary hardware, no...
Johnson 1500 pocket door hardware comes with its own frame, wrench, track, and door bumpers. You can cut down the frame to any size to fit your pocket door frame. Moreover, this hardware allows easy and smooth opening and closing of the pocket door.
The self-adjusting floor anchors in this product allow settling the floor without changing the horizontal alignment of the header and the track. The true lifetime warranty that Johnson Hardware Store offers is also worth mentioning. Overall, Johnson 1500 pocket door hardware is a great product that can be used for the installation of all kinds of pocket door hardware.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Premium quality
- Easy installation (no drilling required)
- The kit includes all the hardware needed for installation
- Easy open and close operations
- Used to install a pocket door into a 2×4 stud wall
- Has self-adjusting floor anchors
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons
- The installation instructions are not very clear
- Allows for a lot of flex on the walls
- The tracks may bend or twist over time due to the weight of the door
3. Kwikset Round Bed/Bath Pocket Door Lock
Kwikset Round pocket door lock is an excellent option if you do not mind it being visible from the outside. This door lock takes the spot occupied by the doorknob. However, there is no reason to worry because it looks very aesthetic and elegant. The satin nickel finish allows it to blend with any kind of home decor.
- Round Pocket Door Lock: Privacy Function
- Face Bore: 2-1/8"; Edge Bore: 1"
- Backset: 2-3/8"; Door Thickness: Adjustable 1-3/8" -...
- Faceplate: 1" x 2-1/4" Round Corner; Strike: 1-1/8" x...
Kwikset door lock comes with an easily adjustable latch, so you can use this lock on all standard-sized pocket doors. Also, the installation process is very easy, even if you are a beginner. You won’t need a professional to help you install the pocket door hardware. You just need to follow the instructions given in the manual.
This lock also has a locking mechanism for added privacy and security. However, the lock is quite shallow, so the locking and unlocking can be a bit difficult. To sum up, Kwikset is a great pocket door lock if you are looking for one that can replace your doorknob.
Pros
- Easy to install (clear instructions are given)
- Adjustable latch
- Has a locking mechanism for added security
- Fits into space occupied by a doorknob
- Looks stylish and elegant
- Has a satin nickel finish
Cons
- Poor locking mechanism
- The Latch is not very strong
- Does not come with a warranty
4. IDH by St. Simons Pocket Privacy Door Pull
IDH By St. Simons pocket door pull is one of the best pocket door pulls due to its durability and sturdiness. This pull is also available in 13 different colors, including brass, nickel, copper, chrome, and black finishes. All of these look great and would go well with any home decor.
- Premium quality solid brass
- Height: 2-3/4-inch
- Width: 2-1/2-inch
- Door thickness: 1-3/8-Inch to 1-3/4-inch
Another major advantage of this door pull is that it is fully reversible. This means that it can be reversed for doors opening in either direction. These door pulls are designed to fit doors that are 1 3/8 to 1 3/4 inches (3.5 to 4.4 cm) thick.
It is easy to install Simons door pull. It only takes about half an hour, even if you are not familiar with the tools. Users say it is better to pre-drill the screw holes. This is because the screw heads are a bit soft, so if there are no screw holes, chances are, the heads will get damaged. This will affect the finish.
This pull also comes with a locking mechanism. You can lock from the inside using the lever in it. If you lock the pocket door by accident, insert a screwdriver into the groove on the outside. Overall, the locking mechanism is of good quality.
Pros
- Stylish and elegant
- Sturdy and durable
- Easy to install
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- 13 different colors are available
- The locking mechanism allows emergency opening
- Door thickness: 1 3/8 to 1 3/4 in (3.5 to 4.4 cm)
- Fully reversible (can be reversed for doors opening in either direction)
Cons
- You have to turn the knob on both sides to unlock
- The font size of the installation instructions are too small for easy reading
- Screw heads are soft, so you have to pre-drill the screw holes
5. Prime-Line Pocket Door Handle And Pull
If you have a non-locking pocket door, the Prime-Line pull is a great option. It has a satin nickel-plated finish and constructed using solid brass. Users love its durability and sturdiness. Also, it goes well with wood and colored doors due to its sleek and classy appearance.
- QUICK AND EASY INSTALL – Quickly and easily install...
- SOLID CONSTRUCTION – The Pocket Door Passage Pull is...
- CONTEMPORARY STYLE – The satin nickel-plated finish...
- GUARANTEED TO LAST – The Pocket Door Passage Pull is...
The finger slot in this pull is 7/32-inch (0.6 cm) deep. This helps in the easy movement of the door. The Prime-Line pull is easy to install. The pack comes with fasteners for quick installation. It also includes a die-cast pull hook.
The disadvantage of Prime-Line pocket door handle and pull is that it can be used only with non-locking pocket doors. This does not have a latching function. Therefore, to close the door, you have to use the side indentations or push the top of the vertical piece on the front.
To sum up, Prime-Line is highly durable and long-lasting. To top it all, it comes with a one-year warranty.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Sleek and stylish
- Satin nickel-plated finish
- Good quality
- Easy to install
- Comes with fasteners for quick installation
- Has a one-year warranty
- High durability
Cons
- It sits on the door’s surface, so it is visible on the outside
- Can be used only with non-locking pocket doors
6. Tibres Sliding Barn Door Handle
Tibres Sliding barn door handle is great for residential and commercial doors; it fits well with barn doors, pocket doors, closet, and even with drawers. This door handle can fit to doors made of steel, aluminum, or timber.
- RELIABILITY AND DURABILITY - The door pull handle is...
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL USE - The flush door handle can be used...
- UNIVERSAL DESIGN - With this finger pull handle, smooth...
- EASY TO INSTALL - The pull door handle may be directly...
The Tibres door handle is made of heavy-duty solid steel and is highly durable. Its black finish allows it to blend in with different decor styles, such as modern, industrial, and rustic. The frosted finish acts as a protective coating, thereby preventing corrosion over time.
It is very easy to install this door handle. Its surface sits flat on the door, so you just need to attach it to the door using a couple of screws. No chiseling or deepening is required to install the Tibres door handle. Moreover, the installation kit comes with a black flush handle and the screws for attachment.
Overall, Tibres sliding barn door handle will be a great buy to install your pocket door. All the customers absolutely loved this handle and highly recommended it.
Pros
- Sturdy
- High durability
- Made of heavy-duty solid steel
- Looks elegant and classy
- Multi-functional (can be used for doors and drawers)
- Easy to install
- Mounting hardware included in the installation kit
- The frosted black finish prevents corrosion
Cons
- None
7. Schlage Lock Company Sliding Pocket Door Pull
Schlage pocket door pull is an excellent pull due to various reasons. It allows smooth sliding of pocket doors and works for both left-handed and right-handed doors. If you want to replace the door pull in your home quickly, this is the brand you are looking for.
- Aged bronze finish
- Solid brass construction
- Secure to a sliding door
- Fits doors ranging from 1.375 to 1.5 inch thick
The installation process is very easy. Users recommend using a coping saw for installation. If the slab is laid down, you can try using a jigsaw. This pull fits doors that are 1.375 to 1.5 inches (3.5 to 3.8 cm) thick. If you know how to use a saw and a router, you will be able to install the Schlage pocket door pull in no time.
One disadvantage is that if the pull gets stuck, it is hard to move it. Therefore, users recommend leaving some space near the pull during installation so that you can use that space to pull back the door if the pull gets stuck.
Schlage pocket door pull has a bronze finish, which makes it fit for all kinds of home decor. It is constructed using solid brass, so it is sturdy and durable.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Fits standard-sized doors (1.375 to 1.5 inch or 3.5 to 3.8 cm)
- Looks elegant (has a bronze finish)
- Sturdy (made using solid brass)
- Can be used for both right and left-handed doors
- Allows smooth opening and closing operations
Cons
- The pull can get stuck at times
8. Hartford Building Products Bifold Track and Hardware Kit
Hartford hardware kits are commonly used for the installation of pocket doors. All the components are zinc-plated and made of heavy-gauge steel. Therefore, it is very sturdy and durable. It also has a 250 lbs (113 kgs) capacity, which is more than what most pocket door hardware offers.
- For 1 3/8” to 1 3/4” doors. 125 lbs. per panel
- Top Mounted. 4- Wheel Ball Bearing Hangers - ride...
- Box Track- Heavy Duty Aluminum track for smooth...
- Box design means that the rollers will not jump off the...
The installation process is very easy. The hardware kit includes a door track, hanger, and a proper guide on installing the Hartford hardware. The track has convex rails that allow the smooth operation of the pocket doors.
Overall, the product is of good quality and heavy-duty. Hartford hardware also offers a lifetime warranty, which makes the product even more reliable.
Pros
- Heavy-duty
- 250 lbs (113 kgs) capacity
- Easy to install
- Sturdy
- Fits doors with 1” (2.5 cm) thickness
- Fits 2 x 4 and 2 x 6 interior wall
- Lifetime warranty
- Mounting hardware included
- Has a detailed installation guide
Cons
- Installation can be a bit difficult for heavy doors
- Assembling the top pivoting pin is not easy
Pocket Door Hardware: Buying Guide
The features of pocket door hardware differ with the type of hardware. However, here are a few things to consider while buying any type of pocket door hardware:
Door Thickness
There is no one size that fits all pocket doors. Therefore, you have to choose the hardware that can fit your pocket door. Measuring the door thickness is the most crucial step to buying the right pocket door hardware. Take accurate measurements of your pocket door to choose the right hardware.
Size and Design
The reason why pocket doors are popular worldwide is that they are excellent space-savers and convenient for people living in studio apartments. Most pocket door hardware kits are designed to blend into the pocket door.
While choosing the hardware, check if it will block the doorways once installed. Even the larger ones are designed to disappear with the door, but some can be visible on the outside and take up more space than you anticipated.
Material
Most people do not consider the material type while buying pocket door hardware. Remember, choosing the material that is suitable for your pocket door is important. If your pocket door is made of wood, metal, or glass, choose a hardware material that works well with the pocket door material.
Weight Capacity
Here is why considering the weight capacity of pocket door hardware is important: if the hardware cannot take the weight of the door, it can get damaged, and the door can fall off the track. Typically, high-quality materials have a high weight capacity. Before choosing the hardware, establish the weight of your pocket door. Compare this with the weight capacity of the pocket door hardware.
Installation
Some pocket door hardware is easy to install, while some can be difficult if you are not familiar with tools. If you are not familiar with the installation tools, you would have to hire a professional, which would cost you extra money. In such a case, choose hardware that can be easily installed by just following the instructions given.
Price
The price of the hardware largely depends on its quality. It is better to set a budget before going through different hardware options. In this manner, you will be able to filter the high-end hardware and go with cheaper ones. However, if you want durable and long-lasting pocket door hardware, study all the features to see if you have to set a larger budget for the hardware.
Passage or Privacy
Some pocket door hardware comes with a locking mechanism, while some do not. Generally, hardware with locks will state “privacy,” and the ones without locks will state “passage” in their names or descriptions.
The ones without locking mechanisms have the added advantage of the hardware not being visible on the outside. However, if you want privacy, definitely choose one with a locking mechanism.
How to Install Pocket Door Hardware
Here are a few common installation steps, regardless of the type of pocket door hardware. Keep in mind that the installation methods can vary with the type of hardware.
Measure the Pocket Door Thickness
As mentioned earlier, measuring the pocket door thickness is crucial in selecting the pocket door hardware. Additionally, measure the size of the hardware, including its opening height and width. Go through the specifications of the item to get started with the installation process.
Create an Opening for the Pocket Door Hardware
The type of opening to be created in the pocket door will depend on the type of pocket door hardware. For instance, if it is a door pull, you will have to cut the door’s edges for the pull to fit in. Larger hardware is often installed above the doorway. In this case, you may need to cut into the wall to make space for the full body of the hardware.
Install the Pocket Door Header and Track
Install the header and the tracks first. Determine what size header and track you require. Typically, larger doors need larger headers. Use the hardware manual to see the exact size of the header and the track. If the header is too long for the doorway, use a hacksaw to fix it.
Install the Split Studs
The split studs refer to the vertical frames that run above and below the door. Split studs are mainly used to create room for the door to move in and out. For the smooth opening and closing operation of your pocket door, it is important to install the split stud properly. Remember that these should go above and below the pocket door.
Secure the Pocket Door Setup Using the Brackets
Brackets are used to secure the entire pocket door. Also, if you want to install wheels to the door tracks, brackets are necessary. Attach the brackets to the doorway before installing them.
Proper installation of brackets is crucial to a steady and robust pocket door. If there is any fault in the installation of brackets, it can lead to pocket door malfunctioning. Once you have installed the brackets, you can install the wheels on the tracks.
Hang the Pocket Door on the Wheels
After securing the pocket door setup using the brackets, you have to install the wheels to hang the pocket door. As mentioned earlier, make sure you properly attach the brackets before the installation of wheels.
Install the Pocket Door Hardware
The installation methods will differ with the type of hardware. Therefore, read the hardware manual thoroughly. Install accessories like door pull, door lock, and handle. Out of all the hardware, round pocket door locks are the easiest to install.
Once the installation is complete, try opening and closing the pocket door several times to see if it is working properly and safely. This video explains how to install a pocket door:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How thick does a wall need to be for a pocket door?
In order to install a pocket door, a wall has to be thicker than 4 inches (10.2 cm). For reference, the standard door thickness is nearly 2 inches (5.1 cm).
- Are pocket doors lockable?
There are both lockable and non-lockable pocket doors. If the door supports both, you can buy an appropriate pocket door hardware based on your needs. Hardware with a locking mechanism is often labeled “privacy,” and the ones without a locking mechanism have the word “passage” written in the description.
- What kind of door do you use for a pocket door?
You can turn any kind of door into a pocket door. However, the wall adjacent to the door should be at least 4 inches (10.2 cm) thick. Additionally, if the door is pre-fitted with a lockset and hinges, it would be difficult to convert it to a pocket door.
- Are pocket doors good for bathrooms?
Pocket doors are ideal for small spaces as they are excellent space savers. Pocket doors work best for bathrooms, hallways in tiny apartments, and closets.
- Can you add a pocket door to an existing wall?
You can add a pocket door to an existing wall. For this, you will have to remove the existing drywall and set new headers, tracks, and split studs.
Conclusion
To sum it up, taking accurate measurements of your pocket door is crucial to choose the right pocket door hardware. The factors to consider while buying pocket door hardware include its size, price, installation method, level of difficulty of installation, design, material, weight capacity, and if it has a locking mechanism or not.
Related: How to Adjust a Pocket Door
