Install a cat flap if you want your pet to go and come anytime they want without having to open the front door. But, it is recommended to hire a vetted professional to do so. They will navigate the complexity of putting different kinds of cat flaps into different doors and walls.
Installation
With a cat flap, your pet is able to enter and leave the house at any time without having to open the door. The variety of pet flaps on the market is huge, from bite-proof and microchip reading doors to fully insulated cat flaps. www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk come with a range of different materials and frames that range from PVC or plastic to aluminum and stainless steel. The type of frame you pick will impact the total cost. Aluminum or stainless steel frames are more durable and last longer than plastic or PVC frames.
It is also important to consider the type of access you would like to give when choosing the frame for a cat flap. If you want to restrict access to other pets it is recommended to choose a pet door that is locked. They utilize your pet's infrared microchip to allow them access. They're more expensive than standard pet flaps but are worth the extra expense for security.
Next, you need to choose which type of wall or door you'd like to install the flap in. The most popular installation locations are in doors, however they can also be put into walls and windows. It is best to employ a professional tradesperson to do the job. They'll have the proper tools and experience to ensure that your pet flap is properly fitted.
Many homeowners might try to fit an animal flap on their own however, this could be risky and cause costly repairs later on. It's also possible that they'll scratch the surface of the door or uPVC panel they're trying to fit the flap onto. It's generally cheaper hiring a tradesperson do the job to avoid these issues.
When installing a cat flap be sure to be aware that it could take some time for your pet to get used to it. It could take days, weeks, or even months for your pet to get comfortable with it. You can assist them in adjusting to the new routine by encouraging them to open the flap by offering an item they love or gradually de-sensitizing.
Materials
The materials used in the installation of a cat flap vary according to the type of cat flap and the door it is fitted to. This includes a range of tools, including a jigsaw, a spirit level, a file and a drill. These tools can require safety equipment which can increase the cost of the project. Additionally, you will require other materials, like the cat flap itself. The type of material the cat flap is built in will also impact the total cost of the job. Frames made of plastic tend to be cheaper than aluminum or stainless-steel alternatives.
Before you begin installing the flap, make sure that you have read the instructions included with your kit. These should include a template sketch of the opening for the flap. This will give you an idea of where you should place the hole in your door and how big it should be. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line on your door is straight. If you are unsure about where to position the opening for your flap, it's worth measuring from your floor to your cats belly height. This will ensure that your cat will be able to fit through the opening.
Once you've marked the position of the hole, you can begin cutting out your door. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is straight and to avoid any accidents. Make sure that you are not cutting into gas, electricity or waste pipes or a structural joint (RSJ) in your wall or door frame. If you are unsure, you should have an expert handle the job.
Once you have cut out the hole in the door, it's recommended to paint the outside of the door, especially when the timber is exposed. This will stop water and moisture from damaging the wood. Sealant can be used to protect the edges of the cut out.
Labour
It is worth hiring an experienced tradesperson to install your pet flap if you need a professional finish. This may cost you some extra money but it will stop any damage to your wall or door. This will also make your pet happy and less stressed when they go outside or return inside. This will decrease the chance that your pet may scratch furniture or cause messes in the house. This could lead to expensive repairs and replacements.
In addition to fitting the flap for your cat, a pro will need to do some testing and final adjustments to ensure that your pet is able to comfortably use it. This may include calibrating the reader to only recognize your pet's chip, and making sure your pet is at ease using the flap.
The type of cat flap you select will also affect the labor costs. Certain surfaces require more work for installation because they are harder to cut into. A pet flap that is microchip compatible, for example is more expensive than the standard model, but provides greater security by only allowing pets with a chip compatible to be allowed to enter.
Certain cat flaps come with locks that can be beneficial in keeping unwanted visitors out. They can be faulty, and costly to replace. This is why it is best to try and de-sensitize your pet the flap prior to installing one. You can help your pet become accustomed to the flap using treats and leaving the flap open.
After the flap has been installed, you'll need attach it using bolts or an additional piece of wood. This is an important step to stop unwanted intruders getting into your home. Paint the cut-out edges to guard against rotting or water damage.
Check their reviews and prices before you hire an expert to install your cat flap. This will help you get the best price for your project.
Insurance
The costs for installation will vary based on the kind and size of cat flaps you select. Plastic or PVC cat flaps are less expensive, while microchip cat flaps and advanced options can be expensive. A professional can guide you on the best pet flap for your budget and requirements.
The type of door or wall that you require the cat flap to fit into can also impact the price. In general, professional installers can install them in most doors, including composite, uPVC and wooden doors. However, they may need to put in an external frame to make the appear more tidy.
It is essential to know the height and width of your pet before installing a cat flap. This will ensure that the flap will fit. This will prevent accidents, for instance, your cat getting injured by jumping through a window.
The size of the flap is also crucial, as it must be big enough to allow your pet to easily get through it. If the flap isn't big enough the pet will have a difficult time to use it and may end up getting stuck inside the house.
Consider the material of the flap and if you want it framed or not. Typically frames are more expensive than unframed ones, however they provide better durability. Framed flaps are also more secure than those that are not, as they're less likely to get lost or taken.
It is also important to consider any accessories you might need. This could include the collar tag reader, a security bolt and the pet door lock. Microchip cat flaps are the most expensive, however they are more secure and can be programmed to recognise only your pets.
A professional installer is required to set up the cat flap properly. Incorrect installation can lead to injury and damage. Professional installation is worth the extra cost for peace of mind. The right flap will also aid in reducing heating and cooling costs by making your home more comfortable in the summer and warmer in the winter. Additionally, it could increase the value of your property.