Have you ever had problems with the flimsy 1x flat studs (strapping) that come in a pocket-door kit? Sometimes a careless sheetrocker will knock one out of alignment, and the door will forever rub against it. Here’s a temporary preventive measure that will hold the strapping in position.
Trim two 1x4s to the appropriate length and cut notches in their sides to accommodate the wall-support straps, as shown in the drawing. These will be used as spacers, so they should be snug but not too tight. Slip these spacers into the pocket on edge, and twist them into position. One in the middle and one at the bottom are usually enough to stiffen the frame while drywall work takes place. When the walls are done, twist the spacers out and put in your door.
—Marvin Havens, Greenville, SC
Edited and Illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #24