A cat flap lets you to allow your pet to roam more freely while saving you the burden of letting them in and out. It can also help your pet feel less stressed and prevent them from entering your home when they are not wanted.
To put up a cat flap, measure the distance from the bottom of the cat's stomach down to the floor. Mark a line along the door's panel. Make sure the line is straight using an ad hoc level.
1. The kind of door
It is best to consult an expert 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 drilled. This will save you much time and money and can help to ensure that the job is done right.
The most basic cat flap is a simple two-way swinging gate that permits your pet to come and go as they wish. These are the cheapest and the most easily installed doors. They don't seal properly and can let drafts of cold or warm air through during the summer.
A microchip cat flap is also a popular option. It detects the unique microchip code of your pet and allows it to be opened so that they can use it. This blocks other animals and pets from using the flap, and ensures that your pet is safe in your home.
There are also cat flaps, which permit you to lock the door for exit and entry. This allows you to regulate the time when your pet goes out and enters, which can be useful if there are children at home.
The size of your cat is the primary aspect to consider when choosing the right cat flap. This will dictate how large opening you'll need to make in the door or wall. It is worth taking the time to measure your pet's measurements and then pick a door that will be suitable.
You should also consider whether you prefer a magnetic or infrared flap when choosing the kind of flap. Magnetic and infrared flaps are more expensive but they offer better security.
A good handyperson has a lot of experience in fitting cat flaps. They can provide advice on the best option for your home. They'll be able navigate the complexities of different types of door and walls, and will ensure that the cat flap is installed properly to keep your pet safe and secure.
2. The kind of flap
You'll need the correct cat flap if you plan to install one inside your uPVC doors. The type of pet and how you intend to use the cat flap will determine which you select. For example, you might prefer an option that is lockable, which can be locked from inside the house. This will keep others from gaining access to your home, while keeping your pet safe and secure.
It is also important to think about the shape of the flap. Most modern flaps are square or rectangular however older flaps tended to be circular. It is essential to determine your cat's height and select a place on your door where they can enter and exit easily.
Once you've picked an opening and determined the size of your door, it's time to start the installation process. Remove any decorative elements from the surface of your uPVC panel door and ensure that it's level. After you've done this, it is time to begin cutting. If your flap came with a template, follow it precisely to ensure that the hole is of the correct size.
Then, cut carefully along the line. Be careful not cut through any vertical rails or mullions. Repeat the process once the jigsaw is finished. Repeat the process until you've cut a hole that is large enough for your pet to pass through.
Some pet flaps come with a magnetic lock which can be used to keep the flap closed. This can be especially useful when you have an indoor or outdoor cat who doesn't want to leave the house or is afraid of strangers. You can also use this feature to keep your cat from running away during the night, or when you're away for long durations of time.
While it is possible to put a cat flap into the composite or uPVC door however, the process is slightly more challenging than fitting it into an existing timber door. This is due to the fact that composite doors are constructed from various materials, and making alterations to them can invalidate their warranty or break the weathertight seal. If you decide to do this yourself it is advisable to seek out a professional joiner prior starting.
3. The material
The material that your door is constructed of will impact the cost of installing a cat flap. It is because some materials are more difficult to cut and require more care to install. This is particularly relevant for uPVC or composite doors that require careful handling to ensure their integrity.
Before beginning the installation, ensure you have all of the necessary equipment. This should include the flap itself along with tape measure, decent pencil along with a spirit level, and drill. Follow the instructions carefully provided by the manufacturer. If your cat flap is made of glass, it's important to locate a glazier who has experience working on this kind of work.
First, you'll need to decide on the position of the flap. Idealy, the cat flap should be located at a height that is close to where your cat usually stands. Also, you must think about the thickness and the size of your door. Thicker doors will be harder to cut and can be more difficult to install. If you can, it's ideal to install a cat flap in the door as it is being built as this will be easier and cheaper.
Mark the shape of the cat flap with pencil after 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 have to draw the cat's shape on the paper yourself. Make sure the shape is square and not an elliptical shape. If your cat flap is circular, you will be required to mark the holes around it. They are usually located at 12 o'clock 3 o'clock, and 6 at o'clock.
After marking the paper, take it off it and mark the holes with a Jigsaw. It is also advisable to drill the screws into the door to make sure they are secure. Finally, apply the supplied sealant around the edges of the cat flap and around any holes in the door if required.
4. The method of installation
Installing a cat flap inside your door panel is not just a good idea for the security of your pet, but it could be a great way to keep energy costs down. By keeping drafts out of your home, you will reduce cooling and heating costs all year long. Before you begin, it is important to know how the installation process works and the elements that affect the price.
The first step in the installation process is to select the best kind of flap for your home. There are a variety of flaps available that range from manual models to microchip- and app-controlled models. Make sure you consider the pros and cons of each option and decide which is essential for your cat. Ask for professional advice if you're not sure what to buy. A tradesperson will be able to provide insights into your door construction and the cat's behavior, and help you choose the most appropriate solution for your home.
The next step is to figure out how to install the flap. The instructions for the cat flap should include a template that will help you cut the hole in your door. Make sure to accurately determine the width and height of your door and 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 your cat flap install ation and will ensure that the job is completed properly. A poorly installed pet flap could pose security risks and damage your door, so it's worth spending an extra few dollars to do the job right. HaMuch is a great site to find estimates from local contractors if you're unsure about installing the flap. We'll help you connect with professionals who can swiftly install your cat flap.