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    Mikey778's Avatar
    Mikey778 Posts: 6, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Nov 1, 2010, 03:18 PM
    Install a pocket door
    How do I know if I can install a pocket door? It's on an inside wall, not a load bearing one, but before I rip out a wall what should I be looking for?
    The current doorway is 24" wide and swings into a very small bathroom. Putting in a pocket door will add a tonne of space but how do I know if it's doable?

    Thanks
    Stratmando's Avatar
    Stratmando Posts: 11,188, Reputation: 508
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    #2

    Nov 1, 2010, 03:52 PM

    I would check for any electrical, TV or telephone jack that may be currently in the void.
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
    Home Repair & Remodeling Expert
    		  
    #3

    Nov 1, 2010, 04:50 PM

    Retro-fitting a pocket door to an existing wall is fairly destructive, to the wall. Before you start do as Stratmando suggests, loook for outlets, light switches, air ducts or any other jacks. You will prettymuch destroy a 24" plus opening on one side or the other, pick the one that is easiest to repair.
    Mikey778's Avatar
    Mikey778 Posts: 6, Reputation: 1
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    #4

    Nov 2, 2010, 02:49 PM
    Comment on ballengerb1's post
    I'm okay with some destruction. How do I know if I can do it? There doesn't appear to be any electrical or duct work. Are there structural issues that I need to watch for?
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
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    #5

    Nov 2, 2010, 02:51 PM

    Unless this is a load bearing wall you will find few structural issues. Are you 100% positive this is not a load bearing wall?
    Mikey778's Avatar
    Mikey778 Posts: 6, Reputation: 1
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    #6

    Nov 2, 2010, 03:37 PM
    Comment on ballengerb1's post
    93% :) I'm a total novice to home repair stuff. I have a small house: There is one wall runs the length of the house. The other that I want to put the door into runs parallel to that one but for only 1/3 the length. I assume it's not load bearing?
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
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    #7

    Nov 2, 2010, 05:13 PM

    Does not sound load bearing. When you start your tear down first open the header above and around the old door. If it is carrying any load you will see a double 2x10 header supported on double or triple studs.
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