Start by measuring how far it is between the middle of the pocket door and the spot where it meets the floor underneath it.
One of the ways to remodel your kitchen this spring is to add a pocket door. Unlike conventional doors that swing open and closed, pocket doors slide sideways. You can hide them in a nook in the wall when not in use, to the point that no one else will even know that it is there unless they are shown. However, sometimes you will want some privacy, and if the pocket door is somewhere else in the house, then you will want to put a lock on it.
Measure
To begin, you’ll want to make some measurements. But the question is, what do you measure? Start by measuring how far it is between the middle of the pocket door and the spot where it meets the floor underneath it. If you think the other interior doors in your house are about the same size, then you can measure them too. This method will help you get a better sense of how large the opening for the new door is, and if you will need to widen it or not. And of course, you want to bear in mind the specifics of the lock, by checking the instructions for the size, position and the recommended cutting method for the holes needed. Using a tape measure and either a marker or pencil, mark the spot where you intend to cut.
Cut
Now the next step is to start cutting. Using a drill, chisel, saw or router as appropriate, prepare the cutout in your door as the instructions show – this is where the lock will go.
Install
After you’ve made your rectangular markings, the time has come to install the actual lock. Put the lock into the opening that you made before. Use the screws from the lock packaging to fix them into place. You should be able to follow the enclosed instructions to get it done quickly and efficiently. Most of the time, however, screwing the locks into place with a screwdriver is all you need to do.
Attach
You’ll also need to attach jambs to your pocket door. However, to do this the right way, you’ll need to follow the instructions found in the packaging. Attach the sides to the header and then adjust them upwards as necessary. Then use some screws to secure them to the floor. There may or may not be a track for the door the slide on; it depends on the type of flooring that is available – hardwood in the front foyer can easily transition to tile or laminate in the kitchen. When everything is where it should be, the next step is to add the door bumper.
Prepare
After the door bumper is ready, it’s time to prepare the latch mortise. Use a sharp chisel to cut a spot for the mortise to go.
Add Latch Plate
Finally, add the latch plate to the pocket door. The door jamb and screws will come in handy here, as well as a drill and a screwdriver. If the lock works without any problems, then you’re done!
Choose Your Door Hardware From WalterWorks
No matter what type of front door hardware and entry locks you choose, WalterWorks Hardware has the expertise and supplies you need. We are well known through the Maryland, Washington, D.C., and northern Virginia area for our fantastic hardware and unbeatable knowledge. For more information, please call us at (410) 263-9711 or contact us online. For more tips on choosing hardware for your home, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Houzz, and Pinterest.