Pocket Gates: Step by Step
Hey there! So, you've probably seen the viral dog/baby gate on Instagram or TikTok, and you're here to know how to get one for your house, right? Well, I'm Rachel, and my family and I just built our custom home. While planning it, I made sure we included a bunch of dog friendly features. We love our dogs and plan to always have them in the home! Our coolest feature is our custom pocket gate!
When thinking through how to incorporate a built-in gate, I stumbled upon a fold up gate. This is a great option for new builds, but it's a bit pricey (around $1500) and needs to be installed and planned for during the framing stage. Not the best option for us as our framing had already been completed.
After ruling this gate out, I went back to the internet and spent days scrolling for inspiration and found this genius pocket door-style baby gate. But, again, our builders had already framed, and adding the support for a true pocket door setup was out of the question.
Thankfully, I came across one last account that showed a gate modification that could be installed post framing and although it requires some work within the walls, could be accomplished!
At this point in our build, we had already drywalled which was slightly problematic. In order to complete this install it did require removing a section of drywall where the bars are installed. The builder removed the drywall panel, drilled some holes through the framing, and installed PVC for stability without messing with the electric or plumbing. They then contacted a welder who fabricated steel bars that we slid into the PVC support channels in the framing. These rods were mounted to a steel plate that we fastened to a piece of wood that matched our trim.
Because our gate is made of steel it is pretty heavy, which is great for containing the dogs, and its durability, but did increase what we paid to have it made and required us to add a small wheel on the bottom to help guide it when we pull it open and closed.
Also, in order to install the bars into the wall and ensure they are long enough to remain secure when the gate is closed, we had the rods made in 2 sections that we screwed together.
This gate setup is pretty versatile and because of its design can be added to existing homes, or incorporated into new builds, as long as there's no plumbing, HVAC, or wiring in the way.
If you're looking for detailed build instructions, including engineering drawings and a materials list, click here!
Don't forget to check out my Instagram and TikTok, @homesweethoch, to see more ways we're making our home dog-friendly! 🐾