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Remodeling Storage & Closet

Do I need jambs on the sides of sliding closet doors?

9 months ago

We took out the wall on the front of our previous closet so we wouldnt lose any closet behind it. we are going to install 4 sliding closet doors on 2 tracks. right now, the doors would slide up against drywall on both sides. Will that work or do we absolutely need jambs? Our closet height is 96” and i cant find any jambs that are that tall.

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Comments (5)

cat_ky
9 months ago
last modified: 9 months ago
I cant even imagine sliding doors with no jambs. Yes you need them. You can make them from regular lumber if you need to. It comes in a lot of lengths, and its fairly easy to do. Sliding them into the drywall ends, will mean repairing constantly. Even if you think you can carefully open and close them, it will eventually end up with drywall damage.
millworkman
9 months ago
I have seen them done that way, just the jamb head for the track. The drywall does get beat up quite a bit but it is doable. Just put a small bumper on the wall or the doors so they do not slam the drywall.
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ci_lantro
9 months ago
last modified: 9 months ago
A big reason for jambs is so the opening can be made perfectly plumb ensuring that there will be no irregular gap where the door meets the jamb. Walls are seldom plumb; test yours with a long level so you know how much/ how unsightly the gap is going to be before committing to a jambless closet opening.

Making jambs out of stock lumber is very easy. 101 woodworking.
woodbutcher_ca
9 months ago
Hello, One of my different jobs Durning my career was in public housing. Many units had closets with no jambs and ran from the ceiling to the floor. I never had any problems. The doors are adjustable so you can get a good fit to the wall, the wheels can raise or lower the door to control your fit, Easy Peasy.

Good Luck Woodbutcher
kudzu9
9 months ago
In addition to the practical issues described above, I think not having jambs makes the closet look unfinished and cheap.

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