Why contractors won’t specify pocket doors

Sliding pocket doors are a great way for residential and hospitality developers to maximise space, as well as provide a beautiful contemporary interior. At Enigma, we know that space at premium residential spaces, such as The Old War Office, or hotels such as Clayton Hotel, which is why we developed Enigma Pocket Doors, to maximise space whilst keeping the contemporary aesthetics of the project.

So, if sliding pocket doors maximise space and provide a contemporary finish, what are the common reasons won’t contractors specify pocket doors? Read more to find out why and how our team at Enigma have engineered solutions to solve these problems.

Difficulty sliding and the pocket door gets stuck

Perhaps the most common reason contractors won’t specify pocket doors is the risk that over time, the sliding door will get stuck or have difficulty sliding. This is a common problem with sliding pocket doors which is why our team have developed systems to prevent this from happening. For example, our Enigma Pocket Doors are 100k cycle tested under load, which gives users the peace of mind the door has been rigorously tested to withstand a lifetime of use.

Our team have engineered unique gear sets, where the standard sliding gear set is surface-mounted to the top of the sliding door and runs within the head channel. The gear sets are tested to EN 1527 1998 up to 100,000 cycles, to provide contractors with the confidence that Engima’s sliding pocket doors are designed for maximum durability and usability.

Misalignment with the sliding door

Due to the function of a pocket doors, they will be sliding on a track multiple times a day, which means they can become misaligned with the wall. This leads to a number of problems, such as difficulty closing and locking the sliding door.

Our team have not only vigorously tested the door to support up to 140kg to provide long-lasting performance but also provide a number of optional enhancements such as ironmongery, frame types and finishes.

Pocket doors rumble and noisy

Another common issue contractors have with sliding pocket doors is the fact they rumble or are noisy when using, which can be particularly concerning for hotels and hospitality developers.

To solve this problem, we believe that quality hardware is paramount for a fluid, soft close pocket doorset and to prevent a wobbly, squeaky rattle sliding doorset. The system must also be designed so that it is easy to install consistently, limiting performance issues which may arise from poor installation. We have a video on this, take a look here.

Slow and difficult to install

Contractors and developers have often feedback that sliding pocket doorsets can be slow and difficult to install, which heightens the risk of delays on projects.

To help prevent this risk, we have developed a pre-assembled pocket door kit to provide installation convenience with pre-assembled kits tailored to seamlessly fit your structural openings. Enigma Pocket Doors are fast to install, which is why we exist; to simplify bespoke and complex building methods.

Repair access, difficult to remove and provide maintenance

We know that things change on-site, which is why some doorsets need to be removed and maintenance is a key part of longevity for sliding doors.

Our sliding doorsets have been built for performance and the durability testing means that maintenance shouldn’t be required. However, if the sliding pocket doorset does need to be removed, the doors have been designed pre-assembled and tailored, so they are easy to fit in and out of structural openings.

Fire rating and acoustics

Enigma Pocket Doors are certified EI30 fire rated kits for multi-story residential properties and hospitality projects.

The fire-rated pocket doors come with a range of frame types, such as, concealed frame, shadow-gap and visible trim sliding doors. In addition, all frame options are provided to you pre-primed ready for on-site painting in your chosen finish and colour.

Our sliding doors are also acoustic rated pocket doors to reduce the transmission of sound quickly and simply with EI30Sa acoustic rated sliding pocket doors, offering up to 30 minutes fire and smoke protection. Within contemporary open-plan spaces, it’s essential to have the ability to isolate sound when needed. Acoustic pocket doors are the perfect solution, allowing for the maximum amount of clear floor space whilst open, with the required reduction in sound when closed.

If you would have any concerns about selecting sliding pocket doors for your project, please contact one of our team who will be able to help you maximise space, whilst maintaining the contemporary finish you desire on your project.