Sliding Pantry Doors - The Modern Solution for Any Kitchen
With their sleek and modern aesthetic, sliding pantry doors are quickly becoming a popular upgrade for today's kitchens. Unlike traditional swing doors that require ample clearance, sliding doors neatly tuck away out of sight, maximizing precious floorspace.
Installing sliding doors on your kitchen pantry is an easy way to add style and convenience. Read on to learn all about the different types of sliding doors, important factors to consider, and tips for a smooth installation process.
Types of Sliding Pantry Doors
When it comes to sliding door styles for your kitchen pantry, you have several attractive options to choose from.
Pocket Doors
Pocket doors are designed to slide directly into the wall through a hidden pocket or cavity. When open, the doors sit flush with the wall and do not require any floorspace clearance. Pocket doors are great for small, narrow pantry spaces since they maximize square footage.
The main downside is that pocket doors require proper wall framing with an empty cavity, so existing walls will likely need modifications. Pocket door hardware kits cost around $300 on average.
Barn Style Doors
Barn doors have a rustic, farmhouse style that brings charm to modern and vintage kitchens alike. They hang from and glide along a wall-mounted track hardware system. While budget-friendly, barn doors still need some floor clearance to slide open.
Barn door hardware kits start around $150. You'll also need wood boards for the door itself. The sliding mechanism is exposed for a decorative touch. Go for a distressed or painted finish for a cozy cottage look.
Glass Doors
For a lighter, airier feel, glass sliding doors are a great option. They can be fully or partially made of frosted or transparent glass panes in metal or wood frames. The glass allows for natural light in your pantry while still concealing contents.
The downside is glass doors offer less privacy and insulation. They also require diligent cleaning. Still, the bright, open look is perfect for modern and contemporary kitchen styles. Expect costs of $600 and beyond for quality glass doors.
Key Considerations When Choosing Sliding Pantry Doors
Here are some important factors to weigh when selecting the right sliding pantry doors for your kitchen:
Available Space
Consider the dimensions of your pantry entrance and any nearby obstructions. Pocket and barn doors need adequate adjacent wall space to slide open properly. Standard pocket doors require at least 12-14 inches of side wall clearance.
Framing Type
Pocket doors need special framing with an empty cavity to recede into. Barn and glass styles can work with normal wall studs. Seek professional input to determine if your walls can accommodate your door of choice.
Desired Look
Think about the look you want—modern glass, rustic wood barn, decorative touches? Match your doors to your kitchen's style for a cohesive design.
Budget
Pocket and glass doors fall on the pricier end while barn doors are very budget-friendly. Factor in labor costs as well if hiring a carpenter or contractor to install.
Installation Tips and Process for Sliding Pantry Doors
Once you've selected the ideal sliding doors, here are some tips to make installation as smooth as possible:
Prep the Opening
Ensure your wall framing meets the requirements of your sliding door type. Make any adjustments needed to the opening size to properly fit the doors.
Install Hardware
For barn doors, mount the metal track hardware securely to the wall. For pocket doors, insert the pocket framing. Carefully attach the rollers, hinges, and handles to the doors.
Hang Doors and Adjust
Lift your doors onto the track or into the pocket frame. Test sliding them open and closed to check operation. Adjust rollers and guides so doors glide evenly and close properly.
Add any final trim or stops to finish framing the opening. Seal gaps evenly all around each door. Do a final test slide and then start enjoying your new space-saving sliding pantry doors!
With their stylish designs and space-saving functionality, sliding doors make a smart and modern upgrade for any kitchen pantry. Evaluate your needs, door options, and budget to select the best style for your home. Then follow the proper installation steps to add this attractive and convenient feature.