5 common problems with Pocket Doors
Enigma sliding pocket doors have been designed through our passion for innovation. They are the pocket doors that simplify complex and bespoke building methods and create beautiful contemporary interiors. We take pride in educating the market on specific topics to help them choose the best product for their development.
With the demand of pocket doors on the rise, one question we get asked constantly is ‘what are the common problems with pocket doors?’
With huge amount of knowledge around sliding pocket doors, we have summarised the top 5 most common problems and the best ways to solve them below. To help you be prepared to reduce the chance of one of these problems occurring on your site. Our specialist team at Enigma have come up with solutions to solve these specific problems.
Track out of square
This occurs when the track is installed out of square, so one end is higher than the other and this can cause the door to slide even when no one is pushing it. We offer two things to help with this problem, the first one is that we can provide the kit pre-hung or we can offer installation demonstration on site to make sure that you understand how to install correctly.
Incorrect design
Where the design of the pocket door is done, things like the wall thickness, a number of layers of board, thickness of board isn’t considered. It is important when designing a pocket door kit to consider the stud thickness, and the boards on the wall. We recommend that the best way to do this is to get the manufacturers CAD drawings, BIM models and build them in early on to reduce the chance of having an incorrect design.
Dirty tracks
This problemcould occur after installation when dirt gets into the track while in use. This could be dirt from the drilling or onsite if it is still in construction. When the wheels run over the track with the dirt, it can lead to the pocket door to rumble. The best way to solve this problem is to simply clean the tracks after installation to remove any dirt the tracks have picked up. We have a video which goes into more on depth on why pockets doors rumble.
Guide channel not fitted
This is relating to the guide channel at the bottom of the door where the floor pin runs in. When it is not fitted correctly, it can cause the door to squeak or even get stuck as it will get jammed in the pocket which is not ideal as it could ruin the elegant appearance pocket doors have. The easiest way to resolve this problem is to ensure the installers have had a look at the installation guides or videos. As always, our dedicated team is more than happy to come out to site and go through an installation demonstration.
Noise
Noise can often be an issue to some pocket door owners. There are a few reasons to why your pocket door maybe nosier than a standard door, firstly the roller mechanism. Lower quality or worn-out rollers can create friction or rattle as the door moves along the track. If the door hasn’t be installed correctly, it would allow room for the sliding door to create noise. One final one could be due to the door slamming when it shuts. At Enigma, when you select your pocket door you will have an option to add a soft close & open damper to the door. This has been designed to dampened opening and closure to create the ultimate finish to the sliding door. The main feature to this, is that your door will close or open gently and reduce any noise or banging.
It is important to be aware and understand the potential problems that could arise with pocket doors, so it doesn’t delay the completion on site or repairs needed further down the line. If you are aware of these issues, it will mean you will have a better chance of keeping the sliding doors functional and durable, which is their main job!
Check out our range of sliding pocket doors, offering a sleek and space saving solution for any interior. If you need any helping on choosing the correct door or design, get in touch today.