Pocket Door Hardware Basics: Pocket Door Locks

Pocket doors are a great solution for tight spaces, such as bathrooms or pantries, where hinged doors can get in the way. They are also a convenient option for home offices and dens. You can easily close the room while you are working or studying, and slide the door open when the room is not in use.

While you may never see the hardware that makes a pocket door work, you see (and use) the lock on a pocket door almost every day. So how do you know which lock to choose?

Pocket door locks generally have two functions: access (non-locking) or privacy (locking). Access pocket door locks feature a pull handle that allows you to slide the door in or out of the pocket. They are ideal for closets, pantries, and laundry rooms. The locking mechanism on the privacy pocket door lock makes it ideal for bathrooms and bedrooms. The privacy pocket door lock also features an emergency release button on the outside, so you can easily rescue a child who accidentally locks himself in the bathroom.

Round and square pocket locks are the two most common types of pocket locks (more advanced mortise pocket locks do exist, but they are generally more expensive and more complicated to install). Both styles come in a variety of finishes, so it's easy to match your pocket door lock with other hardware.

Square pocket door locks require a notch cut into the edge of the door, which means you should start with a basic door panel for easy installation. Most square pocket door locks have a simple lever that flips out from the edge of the door and acts as a finger pull to slide the door out of the pocket.

Round pocket door locks typically fit standard 2-1/8" holes, allowing you to use your existing door as a pocket door. This is a great way to repurpose an old door that has a lot of character or just save your remodel budget, it makes installation a breeze! If you are reusing an existing door, be sure to measure the backs correctly in order to order the correct latch size for your new pocket door lock. (Backset is the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the 2-1/8” hole. Most doors have a setback of 2-3/8” or 2-3/4”.) Round pocket door locks usually have a backlash from the door edge Tabs that pop out so you can easily pull the door out of your pocket.

If you have a set of two pocket doors that are grouped together, you can create a locking set with two round pocket door locks. Simply install a cup for access locks on one door and a privacy lock on the other. Install a privacy-preserving strike on the edge of the access door and you're done! When the locks are engaged, a latch from privacy holds the two doors together.

Pocket doors (and their locks) can open up a world of possibilities in your home. Take a look at your house to see if they are right for you. If you would like to purchase pocket doors or pocket door hardware, please contact us.

Wekis Hardware is a professional custom sliding door hardware manufacturer. For 18 years, we have been focusing on the research and development, design, and manufacture of furniture hardware and sliding door hardware. Wekis Hardware prides itself on its competence, efficiency, and professionalism in the hardware industry. Our products are exported to more than 110 countries and regions in Europe, North America, Australia, South Africa, and Southeast Asia. Establish long-term cooperative relationships, quality and service are recognized and become a trusted partner.