A cat flap is an excellent method to allow your pet some freedom and avoid the hassle of letting them in and out. It will also make your pet feel less stressed and prevent them from entering your home when they're not needed.
To place a cat flap on your door, measure from the bottom of their stomachs to the floor, and draw an outline on the door panel. Use a spirit-level to check that the line is straight.
1. The kind of door
It is recommended to speak with an expert if you are planning to install a cat flap into an uPVC or double glazing glass sealed unit. They can provide the uPVC or glass panel with a hole already drilled. This will save you time and money, and ensure that the job is done correctly.
The most basic kind of cat flap is a simple two-way swinging door that allows your pet to move around at will. They are the least expensive and most easily fitted to doors. They aren't well-insulated and could let drafts of cold or warm air through during the summer.
Another popular option is microchip cat flaps that recognises your pet's unique microchip number and unlocks the flap for the pet to use. This keeps other pets and animals from using the cat flap, and your pet is secure at home.
There are also locking cat flaps that allow you to secure the door both for entry and exit. This gives you more control over when your pet is allowed to leave and come in which can be beneficial for families with young children around.
The size of your cat is the main factor to consider when selecting the right cat flap. This will dictate how large a hole you will need to cut in the door or wall. It is important to take the time to measure your dog's measurements and then select the appropriate door.
You should also consider whether you would prefer a magnetic or infrared flap when choosing the type of flap. Magnetic and infrared cat flaps tend to be more expensive but offer better security.
A skilled handyman has plenty of experience in fitting cat flaps. They can give you advice on what is best for your home. They will be able to navigate the complexities of different types of door and walls, and ensure that the cat flap is installed properly to keep your pet safe and secure.
2. The kind of flap
If you're planning to put a cat flap inside your uPVC door it is essential to choose the best one. The type of pet you have and how you intend to use the flap will determine which one you pick. For instance, you may want to purchase one that locks and can be locked from inside the home. This will ensure that your pet is secure while preventing others from entering your house.
Take note of the shape of the flap. The majority of modern flaps are rectangular or square, but older ones tended to be circular. It's crucial to gauge the height of your cat and find a spot at your door that is comfortable for them to enter and exit.
Installing the flap is simple once you have chosen it and measured your door. Remove any decorative elements that are on the surface of your uPVC panel door and make sure it is flat. Once you've done this you can begin the cutting. If your pet flap has a template to follow be sure to follow exactly as it says.
Then, cut carefully along the line. Be careful not to cut through any rails or mullions. Repeat the procedure after the jigsaw has been completed. Continue until you have a hole big enough to fit your pet into.
Some pet flaps are also equipped with a magnetic lock which can be used to keep the flap securely closed. This can be especially useful if you have an indoor/outdoor cat who isn't keen to leave the house or is scared of strangers. You can also make use of this feature to prevent your cat from running away at night or when you're away for long durations of time.
It is possible to install a cat flap into a composite or uPVC however, the process could be more complicated than fitting one on the door made of wood. This is due to the fact that composite doors are a mixture of different materials, and making any modifications to them may void their warranty or compromise 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 constructed of will impact the cost of installing a cat flap. This is due to different materials being more difficult to cut and may require more care during installation to avoid damage. This is particularly true for uPVC and composite doors that require care to ensure the integrity of the door.
Before starting the installation, make sure you have all the equipment needed. Included in this list should be the cat flap, tape measuring tools, a decent pen, a spirit-level, and a drill. You should also follow the directions provided by the manufacturer of your pet flap with care. If your pet flap is made of glass, it is important to find a glazier who has experience in this kind of work.
First, you'll need to decide on where you will place the flap for your cat in the doorway. Ideally, this should be near to the height that your cat is normally. However, you'll also have to consider the thickness of your door. Doors that are thicker will be more difficult to cut and may be more difficult to install. If you can, it's recommended to install an animal flap on the new door while it is being built, as this will be easier and less expensive.
Draw the shape of the cat flap with pencil once you've found the ideal position. You can make use of the template that came with the cat flap to do this. If not, you'll have to draw the design on the paper yourself. Make sure that the shape is square and not ellipse. If your cat flap is circular, you will also need to mark the holes around it. These are typically at 12 o’clock three o'clock and six o’clock.
After marking the paper, take it off it and mark the holes with the jigsaw. Screws should be drilled into the door too to make sure they are secure. Finally, apply the supplied sealant around the edges of the cat flap as well as around any holes in the door, if required.
4. The installation procedure
Installing a cat flap on your door panel can be an effective way to save energy and keep your pet safe. You can save money throughout the year by preventing drafts to enter your home. But before you start it is important to know the process of installation and the various factors that could impact the cost of your project.
cat flap fitting in the installation process is to choose the appropriate kind of flap that is suitable for your home. There are many different types including manual models, to microchip- and app-controlled versions. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons for each option and decide what's best for your cat. If you're not sure which kind of door to buy, you might want to consider consulting a professional. A professional will be able give you an insight into the door's construction and your cat’s behavior and help you decide the right one for your home.
The next step is to determine how to install the flap. Depending on the type of cat flap, the instructions should include a drawing template which shows you how to make the hole you'll need to cut in your door. Make sure to accurately measure the width and height of your door and then draw it on paper. Also, if your cat flap is square, ensure that it's square and not elliptical.
It's essential to use an experienced and reliable installer for the installation of your cat flap and will ensure that the job is completed right. A poorly-installed pet flap can lead to security issues and even damage your door and home, so it's worth paying an extra few dollars to get the job done correctly. If you're not comfortable fitting the cat flap by yourself, request quotes from local tradespeople on HaMuch. We'll help you connect with professionals who can quickly install your cat flap.