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Yes. You can retrofit a pocket door into an existing wall as long as the wall isn’t load-bearing and isn’t packed with plumbing, wiring, or ductwork. The job means opening the wall, sliding in a specialized frame and track, and relocating any utilities in the way. If the wall is structural—or crowded with pipes and wires—plan to hire a professional to ensure everything is safe and up to code.

Yes. A pocket door costs more than a pre-hung swing door because you’re paying for demolition and wall work in addition to the door itself. Hanging a standard interior door runs from $150 to $200, while a pocket door retrofit ranges from $1,000 to $3,500. That extra cash goes toward building the hidden cavity that lets the door glide out of sight and frees up floor space.

To frame or retrofit a pocket door, you’d need to modify an existing wall to fit the door and its hardware. This process involves opening the wall, ensuring the door has space to slide, and adjusting any wiring or plumbing inside. After creating the space, a new frame and track are installed to ensure the door functions properly.

Installing a pocket door does not significantly increase home value because its primary benefits lie in enhancing interior space efficiency and design. The installation requires specialized work that does not directly translate into measurable property appraisal gains. However, the refined look and functional privacy it offers attract buyers who value modern, well-planned living spaces, even though it may present additional maintenance considerations.

Installing a pocket door takes 6 to 12 hours of skilled work, with the initial installation phase completed within this timeframe. Additional tasks, including drying paint and repositioning plumbing, electrical, or HVAC components, extend the overall project duration by several days. This defined schedule is determined by your home’s layout, the type of door, and any required structural modifications, ensuring a precise and reliable installation process.