Allowing your cat to enter and go out of the house at its own pace is a great idea to keep it physically and mentally active. A flap can aid in reducing toilet accidents by making it easier for your cat to exit the house when it is required to.
Measure the Door
A cat flap lets your pet to go and come whenever they want without having to open the door for them. This is ideal to keep them in the house when you're home or away, and helps keep unwanted pests out of your house as well!
It is essential to examine the door's measurements to ensure that you get the correct size cat flap. There are many sizes available. This ensures you get the correct size to fit into your upvc door, otherwise, it could be too small or large and your cat will be unable to use it.
Before you do anything however, you should use a ruler to measure the width of the door in a variety of places along its edges. You should also determine the height of the door in a few spots. A door that is too high will cause your cat to do a gymnast routine every time it uses the flap.
If you're not sure of how to measure the door, it could be a good idea to seek assistance from a glazier, or someone who does this type of work often. They will be able to assist you in determining whether your door is suitable for a cat flap, and help you decide on the best size of flap you should purchase.
Draw the outline of your hole on the door once you have your measurements. This will assist you when you're cutting the hole and will save you money!
Make sure that you put the hole in the correct position. If you're installing a cat flap to a patio door it is vital that the hole doesn't reach too close to the hinges. This could lead to leakage or issues with the seal.
If you have an opening made of glass, it might be best to let this job to a professional glazier. It can be difficult to fit a cat-flap into an existing pane. You may also find that it breaks and loses its weatherproof seal.
Measure the Cat
A cat flap allows your pet to move around as they please without you needing to leave them on their own. It also helps stop the draughts from entering your house, which aren't good for either you or your cat!
However, if you own a uPVC or composite door, it can seem tricky to fit the cat flap. These types of doors are typically made from different materials than traditional wooden or uPVC doors and the procedure for installing them is different, too. Make sure to inquire with the manufacturer if the door is compatible prior to installing an uPVC cat flap on your uPVC composite or uPVC door. Modifications can cause warranty issues.
Generally speaking, these kinds of doors are made to be tough and durable and have insulation built-in. They are more resistant to elements than other kinds of door, but it isn't always easy to install the cat flap. Make sure to consult a professional prior to installing a cat flap onto a uPVC door or composite.
To make cat flap installer near me that your cat can access the door, you'll need to determine their height. It is easiest to measure their height when they're calm or asleep, so that they don't sway around. Once you know their height, you can measure the distance from their stomach to the floor to determine the location of the flap's bottom. Then, you can mark this position on the door.
If you are using power tools to cut your uPVC door or composite door, you have be extra cautious. The process of drilling into the metal may cause cracks, especially if the area is toughened glass. It is highly recommended to employ a glass installer when installing a cat flap in a pane. This will stop the glass from breaking and becoming hard. A Glazier is also in a position to provide you with a circular cat flap that is less likely to break and is safer for your cat to use.
Cut the Hole
If not, you can make one yourself by using a piece of paper (tracing paper is the best choice). If it doesn't, you could make your own using a thin sheet of paper (tracing papers are perfect). Once the shape has been pencilled in on the door, then use a spirit level to ensure that the shape is completely horizontal. This will allow your cat flap to sit properly in the opening and prevent it being capable of sliding open or closed.
Then, you can make use of a jigsaw to cut out the pattern that is marked on the door. Make sure that you are using a blade suitable for use on uPVC doors. Usually, it will be marked accordingly however, if not, ask the staff at your DIY store for assistance. Once you have the hole made and the flap section is in place, put it against it and then push it out to ensure that the flap's action is smooth. If it is bound at any point, you can use a filer or a rasp to remove it.
Check that there aren't any gas or electric pipes inside the door you're going to cut through. The jigsaw may damage them. Also, be aware of any handles or other door fixtures which will need to be removed in order to install the cat flap. You should be careful not to harm them during this process.
Most people who install a cat flap on their own will have an ordinary solid uPVC front door, which means they will not have to face these issues. If your door is constructed of wood or has a decorative piece that is not easily removed, it will make the job.
It is always advisable to seek professional assistance from a cat flap fitter for these kinds of jobs because it is important to get them done right to avoid potential problems in the future. If you do it wrong, it could cause the door to be damaged and could invalidate the warranty.
Place the Flap
Once you've got your hole drilled, put the flap in place to see if it fits and is able to open easily. If you notice any spots that stick or catch to the door, smooth them out using an sandpaper or hand file until it fits correctly and opens without any problems. Make sure the flap is aligned with the door.
If your kit doesn't include an example, you could use tracing paper that is thin, such as a piece of paper or acetate. Place the paper on the door and draw an area on which you'll will need to place the flap (this will be your cutting guide). Then, using the pencil lines you've made on the door, mark four screw holes in the corners of the flap - these will be the screw points you'll use to put the flap into the right position.
The majority of uPVC doors are sturdy and easy to cut. If your door is made of GRP or composite however, it could be more difficult. If you're unfamiliar with this, it might be wise to get a professional to handle the work for you. They should also be able to help you determine whether or not your specific door is suitable for cat flap installation.
If you're planning to install a cat flap on composite doors, it is essential to first check with the manufacturer or a professional joiner. Any modifications made to these doors may cause the warranty to be void. If you decide to tackle the work yourself, bear in mind that it can be a messy job and may even be hazardous.
You'll require an instrument like a grinder or a saw to cut through composite doors, rather than just the GRP. Be aware that this could be a very hazardous job and you'll have to take extreme care not to harm the door or yourself since it's extremely fragile. It is important to note that it is much more difficult to make holes in door glass than a uPVC door or solid wood doors.