If you would like to allow your pet to go and come whenever they want without having to open the door, you can put in a cat flap. It is recommended to hire a professional to put in the cat flap. They will navigate the complexity of putting various types of cat flaps to various walls and doors.
Installation
A cat flap lets your pet to leave and enter the house whenever they want without having to open the door or window for them. The range of pet flaps available on the market is vast, including microchip-proof and bite-proof doors to fully lined cat flaps. They are available in a variety frames and materials, ranging from plastic or PVC to aluminum and stainless. The frame you pick will affect the cost. Plastic and PVC frames are cheaper, but are less durable, while stainless steel frames made of aluminum are more expensive, but last longer.
You should also consider what kind of access you would like to provide when choosing the frame for your cat flap. If you wish to limit access to your pet's other animals, you should choose a pet door that is locked. These work by using your pet's microchip or an infrared sensor to allow them in. They are more expensive than standard pet doors but they're well worth the extra money for peace of mind.
The next consideration is the type of wall or door you want to fit the flap into. They are typically placed in doors. However they can also be installed into windows and walls. The best method to complete the task is to work with an expert. They'll have the proper equipment and know-how to ensure that your pet flap is correctly fitted.
It is typical for homeowners to try to install a cat flap on their own. This could be risky and could result in expensive repairs in the future. They may also damage the surface of the uPVC panel or door they're trying to install the cat flap on. To avoid this it's generally more affordable to hire an expert to complete the job.
Be aware that your pet may require a while to get familiar with the flap. It could be days, weeks or even months before they're comfortable using it frequently. In the meantime you can assist them to adjust by encouraging them to go through the flap with their favorite food or by desensitizing them gradually.
Materials
The materials used for the installation of a cat flap are different according to the type of cat flap and door it is installed to. This includes a range of tools, such as a jigsaw, spirit level along with a file and drill. These tools may require safety equipment, which could add to the overall cost of the project. Other materials such as the cat flap itself may also be required. The cost of the project can be influenced by the type of material used to frame the cat flap. Frames made of plastic tend to be less expensive than stainless-steel or aluminum alternatives.
Before you start installing the flap for cats, make sure that you've read the instructions included in your kit. These instructions should include a template of the opening for your flap. This will give you an idea of where you should put the hole in your door and how big it should be. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight across your door. If you are unsure about the location of your flap opening, consider taking measurements from the floor to the height of your cat's belly. This will ensure that your cat will be able to easily fit through the opening.
Once you've determined the area where the hole must be then you can begin cutting out your door. It is important that you employ a spirit level to ensure the line stays straight and avoid any accidents. Be sure you're not cutting into gas, waste or electricity pipes or a structural joint (RSJ) in your door frame or wall. If you're not sure, it is recommended to hire a professional do the work for you.
After you've made the hole in the door, it is a great idea to paint the exterior of the door. This is particularly true in the case of wood that has been exposed. This will stop moisture and water from soaking into the wood and damaging the wood. Sealant can be used to protect the edges of the cut out.
Labour
It is a good idea to hire an experienced tradesperson to install your pet flap if desire a professional outcome. It might cost a bit more, but you'll avoid any damage to your door or wall. This will also make your pet happier and less stressed as they leave or return to the house. This will reduce the likelihood that your pet may scratch furniture or cause mess within the house. This can result in costly repairs and replacements.
In addition to fitting the flap for your cat, a professional will have to conduct some tests and final adjustments to ensure that your pet will comfortably use it. This could include calibrating the reader to only recognize your pet's chip and ensuring that your pet feels at ease with the flap.
The type of cat flap you choose will also impact your labor costs. Certain types of flaps are more difficult to cut into and require more effort to put in. For instance the microchip pet flap is more expensive than a standard model, yet it offers increased security by only allowing access to pets that have an approved microchip.
Some cat flaps come with locks that can be helpful in keeping unwanted visitors out. They can be faulty, and costly to replace. For this reason, it is recommended to test and desensitize your pet to the flap prior to installing one. You can help your dog become comfortable with the flap using treats and leaving it open.
Once the flap has been fitted and the flap is in place, you need to make sure it is secure by securing it using an additional piece of wood or a bolt made of steel. This is an important step, as it will stop unwanted intruders getting into your home. Paint the cut-out edge of the fence to keep it from the effects of rotting or water damage.
Before you choose a contractor for the installation of your cat flap It's recommended to check their pricing and reviews. repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk will help you find the most competitive price for your project.
Insurance
The costs for installation will vary based on the kind and size of cat flaps you pick. Plastic or PVC cat flaps are less expensive, whereas microchip cat flaps and advanced options can cost a lot. A professional can guide you on which pet flap is the best for your budget and requirements.
The cost can also be affected by the kind of wall or door that you want the cat flap installed into. Typically, professionals can fit them in most doors that are made of composite, uPVC and wooden doors. However, they might need to put in an external frame to make the installation look neater.
It is important to determine the width and height of your pet prior to putting in the flap. This will ensure that the flap fits. This will help prevent accidents, such as your cat running through a doorway and causing injury to itself.
The size of the flap is also important, as it should be large enough that your pet can easily get through it. If the flap is small your pet might struggle to use it. They might end up trapped within it.
It is also important to consider whether you want to get an unframed or framed flap as well as the material that it is made of. Frames are generally more expensive than unframed flaps, however they provide greater durability. In addition frames are more secure than ones that aren't as they are less prone to being ripped off or stolen.
You should also consider any additional accessories you may require. You might require the collar tag read, a security lock and a pet-door lock. The most expensive cat flaps come with microchips, however they are also the most secure. They can be programmed so that only your pets recognize them.
A professional installer is required to put in the cat flap properly. A poor installation could cause injuries and damage. The assurance that comes with a professional installation is usually worth the cost. Moreover, the right flap can help you save money on cooling and heating costs by keeping your home warmer in the winter months and cooler in the summer. In addition, it could also boost the value of your property.