A cat flap lets you to allow your pet to roam more freely without the headache of having to let them in and out. It can also help your pet to be less stressed and prevent them from entering the home when they are not allowed to do so.
To fit a cat flap on your door take a measurement from the bottom of their stomachs to the floor, and draw an outline on the door panel. Make sure the line is straight using the spirit level.
1. The kind of door
If you are installing a cat flap into the uPVC door panel or a double glazing glass sealed unit, it is recommended to speak with a professional who can supply the uPVC glass or panel with a premade hole in it. This will save you a lot of time as well as money and will ensure that the work is done right.
The most basic kind of cat flap is a simple two-way swinging door that permits your pet to go and come as it pleases. These are generally the cheapest and can be fitted to most doors. They don't seal well and can let cold drafts or warm air in during summer.
A microchip cat flap is another popular option. It recognises the unique microchip number of your pet and unlocks it so that they can use it. This stops animals and other pets from using the flap, and ensures your pet's safety inside your home.
There are also cat flaps that permit you to lock the door for exit and entry. This allows you to regulate when your pet leaves and comes in, which is beneficial if you have children at home.
The size of your cat is the most important factor to take into consideration when choosing a cat flap. This will determine the size of the hole must be cut into your wall or door. It is essential to be sure to measure your dog and then select the appropriate door.
When you are deciding which flap to select it is important to consider whether you want it to be magnetic or infrared. Magnetic and infrared flaps are more expensive, but they offer better security.
A good handyperson has plenty of experience fitting cat flaps. They can provide advice on the best option for your home. They will be able navigate the complexities of various types of doors and walls, and make sure that your cat flap is installed correctly to ensure your pet's safety.
2. The type of flap
You'll need the right cat flap if you plan to install one inside your uPVC doors. The type of pet you want to keep and how you intend to use the cat flap will determine which one you select. For example, you might want to purchase one that locks and can be locked from the inside of the home. This will prevent others from gaining access to your home, while keeping your pet secure and safe.
Take note of the shape of the flap. Most modern flaps are rectangular or square, but older ones tended to be circular. It is important to measure your cat's height and choose the best location for your door where they can be able to easily enter and exit.
Installing the flap is straightforward after you've chosen the right one and determined the measurements of your door. First, remove any decorative elements from the surface of your uPVC door panel and make sure that it's flat. Once you've done this, you can start the cutting. If your pet flap was provided with a template adhere to it with care to ensure that the hole is the right size.
Then, carefully cut along the line. Be careful not cut through any vertical rails or mullions. After the jigsaw is done, repeat the process for the next hole. Continue this process until you've created the hole sufficient for your pet to fit through.
Some pet flaps also come with a magnetic lock which can be used to keep the flap closed. This is especially useful when your cat is scared of strangers or doesn't want to leave the house. You can also make use of this feature to prevent your cat from escaping during the night, or when you're away from home for long durations of time.
It is possible to install a cat flap on a composite or uPVC however the procedure could be more difficult than putting one into a wooden door. This is because composite doors are constructed from several different materials, and making any modifications to them may void their warranty or cause damage to the weathertight seal. If you decide to try this yourself, it's a good idea to consult a professional joiner prior to starting.
3. The material
The material your door is made of will affect the cost of installing the cat flap. This is because different materials are more difficult to cut and require more attention when installing to prevent damage. This is particularly applicable to uPVC and composite doors which must be carefully treated to ensure the strength of the door.
Make sure you have all the equipment you require prior to beginning the installation. This includes the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a decent pencil as well as a spirit level drill. Follow the instructions carefully provided by the manufacturer. If your cat flap is made of glass, it is important to find a glazier who has experience in this kind of work.
It is first necessary to determine the location of the flap. The ideal situation is that the flap should be placed at a height that is close to where your cat normally stands. Also, you must think about the thickness and the size of your door. It is more difficult to cut doors that are thicker and they can be more difficult for you to put in. It is simpler and less expensive to install a cat flap after the door is being built.
Mark the shape of the cat flap using a pencil once you have found the ideal position. If your cat flap came with templates, you could make use of it to draw the shape. If not, you'll need to draw the shape on the paper yourself. Make sure the shape is square and not ellipse. If your cat flap is circular, you will also have to mark the holes around it. These are typically at 12 o’clock 3 o'clock, and 6 hours.
After making the marks on the paper remove the flap and mark the holes using an Jigsaw. You should also drill the screws into the door to make sure they are secure. In the end, apply the sealant around the edges of the cat flap as well as around any holes in the door, if needed.
4. The method of installation
Installing a cat flap on your door is not just a good idea to ensure the safety of your pet, but it could also be a great way to keep energy costs down. By blocking drafts from entering your home, you can save money on heating and cooling costs all year long. Before you begin it is crucial to understand how the installation process works and the elements that affect the price.
The first step during the installation process is to choose the appropriate type of flap for your home. There are a variety of flaps available, ranging from simple manual models to sophisticated microchip and app-controlled versions. Be cat flap installers near me repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk to weigh up the pros and cons of each option and decide what is truly necessary for your cat. Ask for professional advice if you're not sure what to buy. A tradesperson will be able to give you insight into the construction of your door and the cat's behavior and assist you in choosing the best solution for your home.
After you've decided on the kind of flap that's appropriate for your home the next step is to determine how to fit it. The instructions for the cat flap should include a template that will show you how to cut the hole in your door. Make sure you precisely measure the width and height of your door and draw it on paper. Also, if your cat flap is square ensure that it's actually square and not slightly elliptical.
It is essential to choose a reputable installer with experience to install your cat flap. This will ensure that the job is done properly. A poorly installed pet flap can create security risks and damage your door and home, so it's worth paying some extra money to get the job done correctly. If you're not comfortable fitting the cat flap on your own, request estimates from local tradespeople via HaMuch. We'll connect you with professionals who can quickly install your cat flap.
