If you wish to let your pet to go and come whenever they want without opening the door, you can install a cat flap. However, you should always engage a professional who is vetted to do so. They can take care of fitting various types of cat flaps to different walls and doors.
Installation
With a cat flap your pet can enter and leave the home at any time without having to open the door. The range of pet flaps on the market is vast, including microchip-proof and bite-proof doors to fully lined cat flaps. These come with a variety of different materials and frames including PVC or plastic to aluminum and stainless steel. The frame you pick will affect the cost. Frames made of stainless steel or aluminum are more durable and last longer than plastic or PVC frames.
When you are choosing a frame to use for your cat's flap, you must also think about the kind of access you wish to give. If you want to restrict access to your pets, go for a locking pet flap. They use your pet's microchip or an infrared sensor to let them in. They're more expensive than standard pet flaps however they are worth the extra investment for security.
The next consideration is the type of door or wall you want to fit the flap on. The most common installation locations are in doors, but they can also be fitted into windows and walls. The best method to finish the job is to employ an expert. They'll have the equipment and know-how to ensure that the flap for your pet is properly installed.
Many homeowners will attempt to fit an animal flap on their own, but this can be risky and cause expensive repairs later. It is also possible that they will damage the surface of the door or uPVC panel they're trying to fit the flap on. It's generally more cost-effective hiring a tradesperson complete the task to avoid these issues.
When you are installing a flap for your cat, you should also be aware that it could take some time for your pet to get used to it. It may take weeks, days, or even months for your pet to become comfortable with it. In the meantime you can assist them to adjust by encouraging them to go through the flap by offering them their favorite snack or by desensitizing them gradually.
Materials
The materials used in the installation of a cat flap vary depending on the kind of cat flap and the door it is installed to. This includes a variety of tools such as drills, files or jigsaw as well as an ess level. These tools could require safety equipment, which can increase the cost of the project. Additionally, you will require other materials, such as the cat flap itself. The type of material that the cat flap is built in will have an impact on the total cost of the job. Plastic frames tend to be cheaper than aluminum or stainless-steel alternatives.
Before you start to fit the flap, make sure you go through the instructions that came with your kit for fitting a cat flap. These instructions should include a template of the opening that you will use for your flap. This will give you an idea of how large the hole should be and where it ought to go within your door. Use a spirit-level to make sure that the line is straight on your door. If you're unsure about the best place to put the opening for your flap you should measure from your floor up to your cats belly height. This will ensure that your cat will be able to pass through the opening.
Once you've identified the area where the hole must be then you can begin cutting your door. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line is straight and to avoid any mishaps. Be sure you're not cutting into gas, waste or electricity pipes or a structural joist (RSJ) in the door frame or wall. If you're unsure, it is best to have a professional do the task for you.
After you've made your hole in the door, it's an ideal idea to paint the outside of the door, especially in the case where the wood is exposed. This will prevent moisture and water from getting into the wood and creating damage. Sealant can be used to protect the edges of the cut out.
Labour
If you're looking to ensure a professional job, it is worth hiring an experienced tradesperson who has been vetted for the installation of your pet flap. It might cost you a little more, but you will avoid any damage to your door or wall. It will also mean that your pet will be happier and less stressed when going outside or coming back in. This means they're less likely to scratch furniture or create mess inside the home which could lead to costly repairs and replacements.
In addition to fitting the flap, a pro will need to do some testing and final adjustments to ensure that your pet can comfortably use it. This may include calibrating the reader to only recognize your pet's chip and ensuring that your pet feels at ease with the flap.
The kind of cat flap you pick will also impact your labor costs. Certain surfaces require more work to install because they are more difficult to cut into. A pet flap with a microchip for instance is more expensive than a standard model, but it offers more security by only allowing pets with a chip compatible to access.
Certain cat flaps come with locks that can be beneficial in keeping unwanted visitors out. They can be faulty, and costly to replace. Therefore, it is best to try and desensitize your pet to the flap prior to installing one. You can help your dog get familiar with the flap by feeding it treats and leaving the flap open.
Once the flap has been fitted, you will need to ensure it stays secure by securing it using an additional piece of wood or a bolt made of steel. This is a vital step to stop unwanted intruders getting into your home. Paint the cut-out edge of the fence to guard against rotting or water damage.
Review their rates and reviews before you hire an expert to set up your cat flap. This will allow you to get the best deal for your project.
Insurance
Based on the type of cat flap you choose, the installation cost will differ. PVC or plastic cat flaps are less expensive, whereas microchip cat flaps and advanced options can be costly. cat flap installer will be able to help you choose the right pet flap for your budget and needs.
The kind of wall or door you require the cat flap to fit into can also impact the cost. Professionals can fit them into the majority of doors, including composite, uPVC, and wooden doors. However, they may need to put in an external frame to make the appear more professional.
Before you get a cat flap installed it is essential to determine the height and width of your pet to ensure that the flap is suitable. This will help prevent accidents, for instance, your cat getting injured by jumping through the window.
The flap should be big enough to allow your pet easily pass it. If the flap is small your pet might struggle to use it. They might end up trapped inside.
You should also consider whether you'd like to purchase a framed or unframed flap and the material that it is made of. Typically frames are more expensive than unframed ones, however they are more durable. In addition, framed flaps are more secure than ones that aren't because they are less likely to be smashed off or stolen.
It is also important to consider any additional accessories you may require. You may need an identification tag for your collar as well as a security lock or pet-door locks. Microchip cat flaps are the most expensive, but they provide greater security and can be programmed to identify only your pets.
It is essential to hire a vetted tradesperson to do the job, because improperly fitting a cat flap can lead to injuries and damage. A professional installation is worth the extra cost for peace of mind. The proper flap will assist in reducing heating and cooling costs by making your home more comfortable in the summer and warmer in the winter. It can also increase the value of your property.