A cat flap lets you to allow your pet to roam more freely while saving you the headache of having to let them in and out. It will also make your pet be less stressed and keep them from entering the house when they're not wanted.
To fit cat flap fitting in your door you need to measure from the bottom of their stomachs to the floor and draw a line on the door panel. Verify that the line is straight using a spirit level.
1. The type of door
It is recommended to consult a professional if you want to install a cat flap on an uPVC or double glazing glass sealed unit. They can provide the uPVC or glass panel with a hole already made. This generally saves a lot of time as well as money and will help ensure the job is done right.
The most basic cat flap is an easy two-way swinging gate which allows your pet to come and go as they like. They are usually the least expensive and can be fitted to the majority of doors. However, they don't seal very well and may let in cold drafts as well as warm air during summer.
A microchip cat flap is a popular option. It recognizes the unique microchip code of your pet and allows it to be opened to allow them to use it. This blocks animals and other pets from accessing the flap and keeps your pet safe inside your home.
There are also locking cat flaps, which allow you to lock both the door for entry and exit. This provides more control over when your pet is allowed to leave and come in which can be beneficial when you have children around.
The most important factor when selecting a cat flap is the size of your pet. This will dictate how large the hole you'll need to cut in the door or wall. It's worth taking time to measure your pet and then select the right door suitable for your pet.
You should also consider whether you would prefer an infrared or magnetic flap when selecting the flap. Magnetic and infrared cat flaps tend to be more expensive, but they offer greater security.
A handyman with a good reputation has a lot of experience fitting cat flaps. They can provide advice on what is best for your home. They'll be able to navigate the complexities of various types of walls and doors, and ensure that the cat flap is correctly installed to ensure your pet's safety.
2. The type of flap
If you're planning to put a cat flap inside your uPVC door, you'll need to choose the best one. The type of pet you have and how you intend to use the cat flap will determine which one you select. For example, you might choose to buy a lockable model that can be locked from the inside of the home. This will keep others from gaining access to your home, while keeping your pet secure and safe.
Take note of the shape of the flap. Modern flaps are typically square or rectangular. Older ones were more circular. It's crucial to gauge the height of your cat and find a location at your door that is comfortable for them to walk through and out.
Once you've picked the flap and measured your door, it's now time to start the installation process. Remove any decorative elements from the surface of your uPVC panel door and ensure that it is flat. After that then you can begin cutting. If your flap was provided with a template adhere to it with care to ensure that the hole is of the correct size.
Then, put the jigsaw's blade through the first hole and then carefully cut along your line. Be sure to not cut through any rails or mullions. Repeat the process once the jigsaw is complete. Continue this process until you've cut a hole that is enough that your pet can fit through.
Some pet flaps also come with a magnetic lock, which can be used to secure the flap closed. This is especially useful if your indoor/outdoor cat is fearful of strangers or does not want to leave the home. You can also make use of this feature to prevent your cat from wandering off during the night or when you're away for long durations of time.
While it is possible to fit an open cat flap on a composite or uPVC door but the process is somewhat more difficult than putting it in an existing timber door. This is because composite doors are made from a mixture of different materials, and making alterations to them can invalidate their warranty or break the weatherproof seal. It's best to consult an expert joiner prior to you begin if you plan to build your own.
3. The material
The material your door is made of will affect the cost of installing a cat flap. This is due to the fact that certain materials are harder to cut and require more care to install. This is particularly true for uPVC and composite doors, which must be carefully treated to ensure the integrity of the door.
Be sure to have all the tools you require prior to starting the installation. These should include the cat flap itself as well as tape measure, decent pencil as well as a spirit level drill. Follow the guidelines carefully given by the manufacturer. If your cat flaps are made of glass, you must seek out a glazier who has experience in this field.
First, you'll need to decide on the placement of the flap. It is recommended that it be close to the height that your cat is normally. However, you will also be considering the thickness of your door. Doors that are thicker will be more difficult to cut and are more difficult to install. It is easier and cheaper to install a cat flap once the door is being built.
Draw the shape of the cat flap with pencil after you have discovered the perfect position. If your cat flap came with templates, you could make use of it to draw the shape. If not, you'll have to draw the design onto the paper by yourself. Make sure the shape is square and not ellipse. If your cat flap is circular, you'll be required to mark the holes around it. These are typically at 12 o’clock, 3 o’clock and 6 o’clock.
After marking the paper, remove it and mark the holes with an Jigsaw. Screws should be drilled into the door as well to ensure that they are secured. In the end, apply the sealant around the edges of the cat flap as well as around any holes in the door if required.
4. The installation method
Installing a cat-proof flap on your door panel can be an effective way to save energy and keep your pet safe. You can save money all year long by preventing drafts from entering your home. But before you start it's essential to be aware of the installation process and consider the various factors that could impact the cost of your project.
The first step in the process of installation is to choose the right type of flap for your home. There are a variety of flaps available, from basic manual models to more advanced microchips and apps-controlled models. Be sure to weigh up the pros and cons of each option before deciding what is truly necessary for your cat. If you're not sure which type to buy, consider consulting a professional. A professional will be able give you an insight into the door's construction and cat's habits and help you choose the right one for your home.
The next step is to decide how to install the flap. The instructions for the cat flap must include a diagram that will help you cut the hole in your door. Make sure to accurately take measurements of the width and the height of your door and then draw it on paper. If your cat flap is square, ensure that it's square and not slightly elliptical.
It's essential to use an experienced and reputable installer for your cat flap installation to ensure that the job is completed right. A poorly installed pet flap can create security risks and damage your door It's worth spending a little extra to get the job done correctly. If you're not confident installing the flap yourself, ask for quotes from local tradespeople on HaMuch. We'll put you in touch with professionals who can install your cat flap quickly and easily.