When planning cavity sliding doors into a new build or renovation, accuracy in the preparation stage makes all the difference. A correctly sized and well-planned stud opening ensures the system fits seamlessly, performs smoothly, and complements the architectural intent of the space. Whether you’re designing new builds with custom sliding doors, specifying internal sliding doors, or creating a dramatic feature using floor to ceiling sliding doors, taking the time to measure and document correctly will save costly adjustments later.
This guide walks you through how to prepare stud openings, how to measure on site, and the key considerations to factor in depending on the stage of the build.
Why the Right Stud Opening Matters
Cavity sliders are often chosen for their ability to create flow, maximise space and maintain clean sightlines—especially in hallways, bathrooms, or areas where swing doors create obstruction.
Depending on the stage of the build, Triline can manufacture your cavity slider to suit a range of requirements. This may include:
- A specific door size
- A ceiling height (ideal for floor to ceiling sliding doors)
- A standard internal door width used elsewhere in the home
- A fixed hallway width to maintain symmetry and a seamless visual line
This flexibility ensures the door both fits the space and supports the architectural style.
How to Calculate the Stud Opening Width
One of the most frequently asked questions is: What should the stud opening width be?
The general formula is:
Stud opening width = 2 × door width + 60mm
This measurement allows adequate space for both the door, cavity pocket and the closing jamb, plus 10mm clearance either end for packing or adjustment if required.
How to Determine the Stud Opening Height
The required height varies depending on the type of unit, the final floor finish and the header space. It’s essential to plan this before plastering or laying flooring to avoid complications down the track.
- Traditional units
Stud opening height = Door height + 75mm - Architectural units
- Stud opening height = Door height + floor covering thickness + 55mm
Full-Height (Ceiling-Flush) Units
For floor to ceiling sliding doors, the top track aligns with the underside of the ceiling lining.
You’ll need to allow: 40mm clearance from the truss or ceiling batten down to the underside of the ceiling lining.
Correct height planning ensures the door lines up perfectly with surrounding ceilings, jambs and finishings—which is crucial when working with premium architectural designs.
How to Complete Accurate Site Measurements
When doing a site measure, the aim is to capture every critical dimension and environmental detail so the manufactured cavity slider fits exactly as intended.
The easiest way to do this is with the Triline Selection Form. Here, make sure you record:
- Overall stud opening width and height
- Floor covering thickness (tiles, carpet, engineered floorboards etc.)
- Whether the cavity is positioned at the end of a hallway, in the centre, or opening into a key transition point
- Requirements for wider jambs to suit specific wall make-ups
- Surrounding construction elements like beams, nib walls, bulkheads or ducting
- Whether the surrounding joinery needs to align with the cavity jambs
- If light switches are required on the cavity wall (noting that our Cavity Switch Unit solves this cleanly) [https://triline.net.au/product/cavity-switch-unit/ ]
Accurate site measuring ensures your internal sliding doors perform smoothly and look purpose-built.
Additional Considerations for Special Situations
Tiled Bathroom Walls
Bathrooms often feature cavity sliding doors because space is limited. If the wall is being tiled, let us know during the ordering process. We can add additional strengthening to handle the extra weight of tiles without compromising performance.
Joinery Alignment
If the cavity slider connects to custom cabinetry or architectural wall panels, note this in your site measure. We can adjust jamb thicknesses and clearances to ensure perfect visual integration.
Electrical Requirements
Electricals should never be afterthoughts on a cavity wall. If switches or power points are required, specify this early and consider using the Triline Cavity Switch Unit for seamless installation.
Setting Up for Success
Correctly preparing your stud openings and thoroughly documenting your site measurements is the foundation of a flawless installation. Taking the time to plan ensures your custom sliding doors fit beautifully, operate smoothly and deliver the seamless visual finish your project deserves.
Whether you’re working on residential homes, luxury architectural builds, or commercial fit-outs, following these guidelines helps ensure every cavity slider not only functions perfectly but enhances the final design.
