Doors and Windows - Installing a pocket door for powder room

My current powder room door swings in a hits the water closet (small room). The door is a 30" door.

I think I'd like to install a pocket door @ this location as it would remove the clearance issue. It is also a project I've been thinking about trying as a learning project.

The area the door would slide into does not have any piping, electric, or support walls/beams.

I've never seen the installation of a pocket door... can anyone give me any pointers?? is this a DIY project or are they tricky?

Thanks for the help..
Scott

I would suggest that you google pocket doors and see what is available as well as what to look for when planning installation.

Also, check out this link.

http://www.askthebuilder.com/489_Adding_Pocket_Doors_in_an_Existing_Home.shtml

They are less tricky if you get a pocket door frame that is already assembled. It kind of resembles a big wood pallet in a way, with your pocket door track across the top and all the hardware you need. You will need to demo the entire wall, install a header over the entire opening, and drywall both sides once it's in.

The most important thing is getting it perfectly level and plumb, and being sure it's not racked. Not sure if it's a DIY for you- depends on your skill level.

If the wall is a supporting wall, a new header will need to be installed, if not, not too difficult for a DIY. Knowledge of framing helps. Use Johnson hardware, their components are better than average and the instructions are good.

I agree with using the preassembled pocket door unit. It is too easy. Stanley's unit is compact, but requires assembly and you can be done with the preassembled unit before you can unpack the Stanley. I think you have a good idea, and you can do it, even if we help! Also, not mentioned, but you will find out, when you reattach your sheetrock to the framing, you can't use more than 1" sheetrock screws, as you don't want the screw to extend into the door void.