---
title: "Multi-Slide and Pocket Doors: Planning Walls of Glass"
description: "Multi-slide doors run panels on parallel tracks and pocket doors slide into the wall. Learn the wall, track, screen and motor questions to settle early."
url: https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/guides/multi-slide-and-pocket-doors
publisher: Honey Rock Window and Door
phone: +1-214-484-9982
quote: https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/contact-us
---

# Multi-slide and pocket doors: what to plan before you frame the wall

A multi-slide door runs several glass panels on parallel tracks so a wide wall can open. A pocket layout slides the panels into a cavity in the wall. Jada describes multiple glass panels and multiple screen panels that slide into multiple pockets. Settle wall depth, track count, screens and motor space before framing.

Updated November 5, 20267 min read

![A wide sliding glass wall opening a dining room to the view](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/_astro/multislide-dining-open-01.DW8jboP5_wtW7Y.avif)

## Jada pocket layouts

Jada describes bottom roll sliders with multiple glass panels and multiple screen panels that slide into multiple pockets.

## Drawings first

Jada says its drawings show the wall buildups needed for some of the larger systems.

## Motor needs room

Jada says driver motors need 14 in beyond the jamb and an access panel.

## Ask the builder early

Pocket depth, structure above and drainage are framing decisions, not finish details.

## What are multi-slide and pocket doors?

A multi-slide door runs several glass panels on parallel tracks so a wide wall can open. A pocket layout goes one step further: the panels slide into a cavity in the wall and disappear. Jada describes bottom roll sliders with multiple glass panels and multiple screen panels that slide into multiple pockets.

Both layouts are framing decisions as much as door decisions. The wall, the floor and the structure above must be ready for them. This guide focuses on those decisions. Our pillar page on [sliding and lift-slide doors](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/sliding-and-lift-slide-doors) covers the full product range. The glossary defines [multi-slide door](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/glossary/multi-slide-door) and [lift-and-slide door](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/glossary/lift-and-slide-door).

## How does a multi-slide door open?

Panels stack on separate tracks and slide past each other, or slide into pockets on one or both sides. Jada’s bottom roll system is drawn in one-, two-, three- and four-track layouts. Jada lists layout codes such as XO, XXO, XXXO and XXXXP, and defines XO as an operable/fixed door.

Ask the maker what each code means for your wall, how many panels park in the pocket, and how wide the stack is when all panels are open.

Jada also says the locking is only on the lead door in a multi-sash system, so one lock secures the set and you can push one or all of the doors.

## Which brands offer multi-slide and pocket layouts?

Jada states pocket layouts on its bottom roll slider page. Bertrand pages we reviewed describe sliding and lift-and-slide systems with narrow mullions and heavy leaves, but they do not describe pocket layouts. Ask Honey Rock which system fits a pocket plan.

System

What the maker publishes

Jada bottom roll slider (steel)

Multiple glass panels and multiple screen panels sliding into multiple pockets. Custom installation details for pocket doors. Zero-transition floor track 3/16 in above finished floor with continuous drain

Bertrand MB-Skyline Type S (aluminum)

25 mm (0.98 in) mullion at the meeting point of leaves. Maximum leaf weight 1,102 lb (500 kg) manual, 1,653 lb (750 kg) with concealed motorized drive

Bertrand MB-77HS lift and slide

Twin-track and triple-track frames. Narrow mullion option of 1.87 or 1.97 in

See our [Jada](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/our-partners/jada) and [Bertrand](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/our-partners/bertrand) pages for the full lines. If you are still deciding between a lift-and-slide and a standard slider, read our [lift-and-slide vs sliding guide](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/guides/lift-and-slide-vs-sliding-doors).

## What do builders need to know about pocket framing?

A pocket needs a deep, strong wall cavity, a floor that matches the track and a header that carries the load. Jada says its drawings help with a sense of the wall buildups needed for the larger systems, and it offers custom installation details for pocket doors. Get those drawings before you frame.

Questions to put to your builder and engineer:

1.  **Pocket depth.** How deep is the wall cavity, and can the wall hold it without moving plumbing or ducts?
2.  **Pocket length.** How many panels stack, and how far must the wall extend past the opening?
3.  **Header and structure.** Who sizes the beam above the opening? Jada says bottom roll systems take the weight off the header and put it on rollers in the bottom of the panels. Still confirm the load path with your engineer.
4.  **Floor track.** Is the floor flat and level enough for the track? Is the slab or subfloor ready for the drain?
5.  **Wall finish.** Which side of the pocket panel lines the wall, and how is the pocket sealed against water and dust?
6.  **Access.** Can you reach the track and rollers later for cleaning and service?
7.  **Utilities.** Are there outlets, switches, ducts or pipes in the pocket path?

Ask for the drawings first, then frame. Fixing a pocket after the drywall goes up costs real money.

![A sliding glass wall opening a living room to a pool](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/_astro/multislide-pool-glass-wall-01.CPf0hsqO_DXupi.avif)

## How do screens work in a pocket?

Screens can slide into pockets too. Jada says that in pocket conditions the standard layout puts the screen sash on the interior of the glass door sash. That protects the screens and limits track exposure to water damming and water infiltration into the pockets. Screens can also be placed on the exterior side when needed.

Jada says matching steel screens are a standard option, and that screen panels typically match the glass panel layout, including divided lite patterns. Ask how many screen panels you need and where each one parks.

## How do water and drainage work at the track?

The floor track is where water meets the house, so drainage deserves a careful look. Jada says its zero-transition track rises only 3/16 in above finished floor and includes a continuous drain, allowing installation without a step down to the exterior. Without a step or metal sill, the interior and exterior finishes can extend under the door.

For a pocket door, water has two jobs to avoid: pooling in the pocket and entering the wall. Ask these drainage questions:

-   Where does the continuous drain discharge?
-   How is the pocket floor sealed and sloped?
-   What flashing sits under and around the frame? See [flashing](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/glossary/flashing) and [sill](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/glossary/sill).
-   How does the exterior surface slope away from the door?
-   Who checks the drain after the first heavy rain?

Our guide to [rough opening vs frame size](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/blog/rough-opening-vs-frame-size) explains how the frame sits in the wall.

## Can multi-slide doors be motorized?

Yes, on Jada’s system. Jada says its bottom rolling system is easily adapted to motorized operation, with the motorization in the top guide track. The doors are belt driven from a drive motor at one end. The motor needs an additional 14 in of space beyond the jamb and an access panel for future service.

That motor space is another framing item. Plan it in the wall before you close it. Bertrand lists a maximum leaf weight of 1,653 lb (750 kg) with a concealed motorized drive for its MB-Skyline Type S, against 1,102 lb (500 kg) for manual operation. Ask your supplier how a motor failure affects daily use, and whether the doors can be moved by hand.

Magnetic and other low-effort sliders are a related option. Read about them in [magnetic sliding doors explained](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/blog/magnetic-sliding-doors-explained).

![Wood-framed sliding glass doors across a living room](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/_astro/multislide-living-wood-frame-01.CYBorJil_ZBk8Jm.avif)

## How much do multi-slide and pocket doors cost?

Honey Rock publishes no prices, and the maker pages we reviewed list none. These are custom systems, so cost depends on the build. Ask for a written quote with each item listed.

Cost drivers:

-   Number of panels and tracks.
-   Total width and height.
-   Glass type and thickness. See [glass options](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/guides/glass-options-for-windows-and-doors).
-   Frame material and finish.
-   Screens, one panel per glass panel.
-   Motorization and controls.
-   Pocket construction by the builder.
-   Shipping, crating and set labor.

Pocket construction sits in the builder’s scope, not the door supplier’s. Ask your builder to price it separately so you can compare apples to apples.

## What should I ask before I order?

1.  The drawing set with wall buildups and pocket details.
2.  The maximum panel size and weight, in writing.
3.  The track count and layout code for your wall.
4.  The NFRC label values for the exact unit. See our [NFRC label guide](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/guides/how-to-read-an-nfrc-label).
5.  The screen layout and how screens park.
6.  The motor type, location and service access.
7.  The drainage detail and the flashing plan.
8.  The finish and its written warranty.
9.  The lead time and shipping route.

For the full project flow, read our [planning guide](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/guides/planning-a-window-and-door-project). If you work with a design team, see the [builders and architects page](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/builders-and-architects).

![A modern home with wide glass doors lit at dusk beside a pool](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/_astro/dusk-modern-home-pool-01.CeePxgPr_1lqAUC.avif)

## What is the order of work on a pocket door project?

Pocket doors fail on timing more than on product. The door must be ordered early enough for drawings to reach the framers, and the framers must finish before drywall. Use the sequence below as a base and adapt it with your builder.

1.  **Pick the layout.** Choose the track count and the pocket side with your architect.
2.  **Get the drawings.** Ask the maker for the pocket details and the wall buildups.
3.  **Review with the engineer.** Confirm the header, the floor and the pocket walls.
4.  **Order the door.** Confirm the lead time in writing.
5.  **Frame the pocket.** Build to the drawings, not to a guess.
6.  **Set the track and the frame.** Flash and seal as the drawings show.
7.  **Hang the panels and screens.** Adjust the rollers and the locks.
8.  **Test.** Open and close every panel, check the drain and check the screens.

For more on the full flow from design to install, read our [planning guide](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/guides/planning-a-window-and-door-project).

## Who decides what on a pocket project?

Several trades touch a pocket wall. Naming an owner for each decision prevents gaps. The table shows a common split. Confirm it for your job.

Decision

Usual owner

Layout and look

Architect or designer, with the owner

Pocket depth and wall structure

Builder and engineer

Door size, glass and finish

Owner and door supplier

Floor height and drain

Builder and flooring trade

Motor and power

Electrician and door supplier

Flashing and sealing

Installer and builder

Screens

Owner and door supplier

If you are an architect or builder, our [builders and architects page](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/builders-and-architects) explains how to bring Honey Rock into the drawing phase.

## Next step

Bring your wall plan and we will help you match a layout to your framing. Start on the [sliding and lift-slide doors page](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/sliding-and-lift-slide-doors), then [start your project](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/contact-us) or call (214) 484-9982.

## Questions people ask

### What is a multi-slide door?

A multi-slide door has several glass panels on parallel tracks, so a wide opening can slide open in layers or into a pocket. Jada's bottom roll system is built in one-, two-, three- and four-track layouts, with layouts from a simple operable/fixed door to multiple glass and screen panels.

### How much do multi-slide doors cost?

Honey Rock publishes no prices, and Jada and Bertrand list none on the pages we reviewed. Cost depends on panel count, size, glass, finish, hardware, motorization and pocket construction. Ask for a written quote that lists each of those items.

### Do pocket sliding doors need a special wall?

Yes. The panels need a cavity to slide into, and the wall around it must carry the loads. Jada offers custom installation details for pocket doors and says its drawings show the wall buildups needed for larger systems. Ask your builder and engineer to review those drawings.

### Can screens slide into the pocket too?

Yes, on Jada's system. Jada describes multiple screen panels that slide into multiple pockets. In pocket conditions the standard layout puts the screen sash on the interior of the glass door sash, which protects the screens and limits water entering the pockets.

### Can multi-slide doors be motorized?

Often, yes. Jada says its bottom rolling system is easily adapted to motorized operation, belt driven from a motor at one end of the system. The motor needs an additional 14 in beyond the jamb and an access panel. Ask any maker how the motor is serviced.

## Terms on this page

-   [Lift-and-slide door](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/glossary/lift-and-slide-door)
-   [Multi-slide door](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/glossary/multi-slide-door)
-   [Rough opening](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/glossary/rough-opening)
-   [NFRC label](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/glossary/nfrc-label)
-   [Flashing](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/glossary/flashing)
-   [Mullion](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/glossary/mullion)
-   [Jamb](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/glossary/jamb)
-   [Sash](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/glossary/sash)
-   [Sill](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/glossary/sill)

## Sources

1.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (multiple pockets)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
2.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (wall buildups)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
3.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (screens in pockets)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
4.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (screen protection)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
5.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (installation details)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
6.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (motor)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
7.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (motor type)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
8.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (remodel header)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
9.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (track)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
10.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (locking)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
11.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (weight path)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
12.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (finishes under door)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
13.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (exterior screens)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
14.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (screen layout)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
15.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (screens standard)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
16.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (motorization)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
17.  [Jada Windows: Bottom Roll Sliders (adapted)](https://jada.com/products/slide/bottom-roll-slider)
18.  [Bertrand: MB-Skyline Type S sliding door (mullion)](https://windowsbertrand.com/offer/mb-skyline-type-s)
19.  [Bertrand: MB-Skyline Type S sliding door (leaf weight)](https://windowsbertrand.com/offer/mb-skyline-type-s)
20.  [Bertrand: MB-77HS lift and slide door (tracks)](https://windowsbertrand.com/offer/mb-77hs)

Written by Honey Rock Window and Door and checked against the sources above on November 5, 2026. Product specifications and city rules change, so check the linked page before you act.

## Keep reading

-   [Sliding, multi-slide and lift-and-slide doorsA sliding door moves a glass panel along a track. A lift-and-slide door first lifts the panel off its seals, so very heavy glass glides with one hand, then lowers to lock tight. Multi-slide doors stack or pocket several panels. Honey Rock works with Jada, Bertrand and Sun Windows, which each make sliding systems.](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/sliding-and-lift-slide-doors)
-   [Lift-and-slide vs sliding doors: which one fits your opening?A lift-and-slide door raises the panel onto rollers to move and lowers it onto its seals to close. A standard sliding door rolls on its track all the time. Lift-and-slide suits very large, heavy panels and tight seals. Standard sliders suit simpler openings. Compare sizes, sill height and sash weight limits.](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/guides/lift-and-slide-vs-sliding-doors)
-   [Magnetic Sliding Doors Explained: Jada and BertrandMagnetic sliding doors use magnets in the track system so very heavy glass panels move with little effort. Jada says its Zero Gravity slider uses magnetic levitation for easier operation. Bertrand says its Hifinity Magnetic Slider moves triple-glazed panels weighing up to 600 kg by hand.](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/blog/magnetic-sliding-doors-explained)
-   [Glass options for windows and doors: Low-E, argon, triple and laminatedMost exterior glass is an insulated glass unit: two panes with a sealed, gas-filled gap. Low-E coatings cut heat flow, argon slows convection, a warm-edge spacer protects the edge, and laminated or tempered glass adds sound control or safety. Match the package to each wall, then ask for whole-window ratings.](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/guides/glass-options-for-windows-and-doors)
-   [How to read an NFRC label on a window or doorAn NFRC label lists independent, third-party energy ratings for one window or door: U-factor (heat loss), solar heat gain coefficient (heat from the sun), visible transmittance (daylight) and air leakage. Lower U-factor and SHGC mean less heat moves through. Compare labels for the exact size, glass and frame you plan to buy.](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/guides/how-to-read-an-nfrc-label)
-   [Planning a window and door project, from first drawing to install dayPlan in this order: design and openings, product and glass choices, a quote from your plans, permit and approval checks, then ordering, delivery and installation. Send plans, a window schedule, rough opening sizes and photos early. Ask each maker for a written lead time on your exact configuration; never assume one.](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/guides/planning-a-window-and-door-project)

![A modern home with wide glass doors lit warm at dusk beside a pool](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/_astro/dusk-modern-home-pool-01.CeePxgPr_Z2giQin.webp)

## Let’s frame your view.

Send your plans or a few photos of the openings. We will help you choose the system, the brand and the glass.

[Start your project](https://honeyrock.multisites.ai/contact-us)[or call (214) 484-9982](tel:+1-214-484-9982)
