Have you ever bumped into a swinging door or simply needed a bit more space in a cramped room or apartment? If so, look no further than a pocket door, a versatile marvel of home design. With a sleek design that integrates seamlessly into a cavity hidden within a wall, you can release much need space and create a clean uncluttered look for your property.
What are the advantages of pocket doors?
Depending on the environment, pocket doors provide a range of benefits the main ones being:
Space Saving: The biggest perk of pocket doors is their ability to save space, which can be a significant benefit in limited space environments. Traditional hinged doors require clearance for swinging, which eats into precious square footage. Pocket doors avoid this wasted space, making them ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms, hallways, closets and small rooms.
Aesthetics: They offer a clean, modern appearance that complements many interior designs, but in particular contemporary styles. Plus, with the extra space you can maximise wall space for shelving or artwork, making the room feel so much larger.
Open Plan: They can be used to create flexible living areas that feel bright and airy when the doors are open, then provide more privacy when closed.
Disability: Because there is no swinging action, a pocket door may be considered a safer option where the users are disabled or elderly, providing ease of access without the risk of contact with the door.
What are the disadvantages of pocket doors?
In certain properties, pocket doors might not be the best solution, the main disadvantages being:
1. If you do not have a cavity wall there is the cost of building it.
2. Older homes with solid walls or drywalls might not be suitable for a pocket door.
3. There is the cost of buying the kit and having it installed.
4. Pocket doors don’t close as tightly as hinged doors, so might not be as effective in reducing noise, light and odours from escaping from one room to the next.
All things considered, however, in many environments that advantages of pocket doors in creating extra space, style and value will out way the disadvantages.
Maximising the design of sliding pocket doors
Depending on the size of doorway, doors can be configured either as single pocket doors, sliding to the left or right, or double pocket doors meeting in the middle.
It is important for the door leaf to have a flush design to prevent anything catching on the sliding mechanism inside the cavity, but that doesn’t prevent you having a stylish design. Panel designs and decorative beading can be recessed into the door so they don’t protrude from the surface. Metal or timber inlays embedded into the veneer can add panache to your door design and you can choose from a wide range of veneers and stains to integrate with the style for your property.
Glazed pocket doors and mirrored pocket doors combine the all the space saving benefits with the benefit of a bright interior and are popular in bedrooms, bathrooms and walk in wardrobes.
Where your door has a panel or similar design, its important to consider how much of the door edge will be hidden inside the cavity and have the door manufactured appropriately. This ensures that, when shut, the visible design of door is central. It’s important to work with an experienced door company like Denleigh who will ensure, when once installed, your pocket door looks fantastic.
Fire rated pocket doors
Fire rated pocket doors should be installed where required by building regulations and the property’s fire safety plan. Approved Document B governs the use of fire doors in residential properties.
FD30 pocket fire doors prevent the spread of fire for 30min and FD60 for 60minutes, however they must be installed as a doorset with the door leaf, frame, hardware mechanism and ironmongery certified to the same standard. Denleigh supply a full range of fire rated pocket doorsets in a comprehensive range of sizes and bespoke designs, making them suitable for any modern or traditional home.
Choosing pocket door kits and ironmongery
There are a few key factors to consider when choosing a pocket door kit. These are important to great right to ensure functionality and smooth installation.
Door compatibility: Pocket door kits are designed for specific door sizes and weights. Bespoke sizes are available but might require a more expensive custom solution. The kit must have the capacity to handle the weight of door(s).
Wall compatibility: Kits are designed for specific finished wall thicknesses. This refers to the total width of your wall, including studs and plasterboard on both sides. Common thicknesses include 90mm, 100mm, 140mm.
Hardware and ironmongery: Whether you choose Eclisse or another manufacturer, pick a quality kit with a steel frame and track . Pull handles must be recessed into the door surface and come in various finishes.
Conclusion: Sliding Door Success
Pocket doors can add functionality, style and much needed space to any property. By considering the design and installation carefully you can ensure the success of your project. The bespoke door artisans at Denleigh have a huge amount of experience with pocket door installations and can provide expert product advice.