Pocket Door Kits: What’s Included and How to Choose the Right One

Your complete guide to selecting the right pocket door kit in the UK, with beginner-friendly advice and expert comparisons.

In recent years, pocket doors have become a go-to solution for modern interiors, particularly in UK homes where optimising space is a top priority. Whether you’re a homeowner taking on a renovation or a professional builder managing a new development, installing a pocket door kit offers both aesthetic and practical benefits.

But with a growing number of brands and products on the market, it can be tough to decide which kit is right for your needs. This comprehensive guide will explain what a pocket door kit includes, how to choose the right system, and how popular brands like Rocket Door Kits and Eclisse Pocket Door Systems compare.

What Is a Pocket Door and Why Choose One?

A pocket door is a sliding door that disappears into a hollow cavity inside the wall when opened. Unlike traditional hinged doors that require swing space, pocket doors offer a clean, space-saving alternative—perfect for:

• Bathrooms and en-suites

• Home offices

• Wardrobes and utility rooms

• Open-plan zones requiring flexible divisions

Pocket doors are ideal for modern, minimalist interiors or any situation where traditional doors get in the way.

What Is a Pocket Door Kit?

A pocket door kit is a pre-engineered system designed to help you install a pocket door without having to custom-build the track and frame yourself. These kits are especially popular in the UK as more homeowners and builders aim for smarter use of smaller living areas.

What’s Included in a Pocket Door Kit?

Although contents vary slightly by brand, a standard UK pocket door kit usually includes:

• Sliding track: Allows the door to glide smoothly.

• Door hangers and rollers: Connect the door to the track system.

• Metal or wooden pocket frame: Creates the cavity inside the wall.

• Stop mechanisms and buffers: Ensure smooth stops and quiet operation.

• Plasterboard supports: To accommodate drywall finish.

• Soft-close and soft-open options: Often sold as add-ons or upgrades.

• Installation instructions and fixings: Screws, brackets, and guides.

Some brands also offer optional accessories like flush handles, self-closing mechanisms, or fire-rated versions.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Pocket Door Kit

Choosing the right pocket door system depends on several critical factors. Here’s what you need to assess:

1. Wall Type Compatibility

Some pocket door kits are only suitable for stud walls, while others are built for both timber stud and solid masonry. Make sure your chosen kit aligns with your wall construction.

2. Door Size and Weight

Most kits support standard UK door widths (e.g. 626mm, 726mm, 826mm, 926mm). The track and frame must be strong enough to support your chosen door’s weight—typically up to 60kg for standard kits, though some systems go higher.

3. Ease of Installation

If you’re new to DIY, look for a pre-assembled kit with straightforward instructions. Brands like Rocket are known for their DIY-friendly approach, while Eclisse caters more to professional installers.

4. Soft-Close Functionality

Soft-close mechanisms are not only safer (especially in homes with kids), they also extend the lifespan of your system. They’re available with most mid-to-premium kits and well worth considering.

5. Finish Quality and Warranty

Check if the kit is made from galvanised steel, aluminium, or powder-coated materials for longevity. Also, look for brands that back their products with long warranties—a sign of quality assurance.

Comparison: Rocket vs. Eclisse Pocket Door Kits

Below is a side-by-side comparison of two leading pocket door kit brands in the UK: Rocket and Eclisse.

Verdict:

• Choose Rocket if you’re a DIY enthusiast or first-time installer looking for a straightforward, cost-effective option that doesn’t compromise on quality.

• Choose Eclisse if you want high-end performance, premium design options, or need solutions for masonry walls, fire-rated doors, or more complex builds.

Popular Applications for Pocket Door Kits

Here are common ways UK homeowners and contractors are using pocket doors to great effect:

• Small Bathrooms: Save precious floor space while keeping the design sleek.

• Wardrobes/Closets: Avoid swinging doors that block access.

• Home Offices: Slide doors closed for quiet focus and open them to blend with living areas.

• Kitchen Pantries: Keep clutter tucked away with a concealed sliding door.

• En-Suites: Maintain privacy without overwhelming tight layouts.

Step-by-Step Tips for DIY Pocket Door Installation

If you’re tackling the job yourself, keep these tips in mind:

1. Measure twice, install once. Always double-check wall stud placement and door size.

2. Use a laser level to align the frame vertically and horizontally.

3. Install the frame before plasterboarding—once everything’s aligned and fixed.

4. Test the track and rollers before closing up the wall.

5. Allow for access to mechanisms if maintenance is needed later.

For first-time installers, Rocket’s kits come with detailed, beginner-friendly guides. Eclisse also offers in-depth technical manuals, but they may be better suited for experienced hands.

Final Thoughts: Transparency and Value for Beginners

Choosing a pocket door kit doesn’t have to be confusing—even if you’ve never installed one before. By focusing on compatibility, ease of installation, and brand reliability, you’ll be able to select a system that delivers real value for your home or project.

If you’re new to the concept, start with a trusted DIY-friendly kit like Rocket. It’s affordable, well-supported, and ideal for typical UK stud walls. If you’re aiming for a premium finish or more complex setup, Eclisse is a solid, professional-grade alternative.

Pocket doors aren’t just trendy—they’re practical, space-saving, and surprisingly accessible for almost any project.