Fitting a Cat Flap
Installing a cat flap in to your home can be a major step for any pet owner. No matter if your cat is older and requires extra security, or you have new kittens that require a thorough screening, there are plenty of options out there to choose from. Installing a cat flap could be intimidating for people who aren't professionals, but, with the right instructions, it's easy to accomplish. Planning, preparation and precision are the most important factors. Select the Right Door or Windows There are a variety of cat flaps, some of which have locks that can be used to stop your pet from leaving or in, while others have high tech features like microchip door entry system. It is important to think about how easy it will be to teach your cat to use the flap before you purchase and install one. Depending on the style of your home, it's generally best to put the cat flap near an opening or window that opens to an area that is protected from the garden so your cat will feel secure entering and leaving the home. If possible it will also provide them a route back in should they get chased by another cat or by a human intent to hurt them. It's possible to put a cat-flap inside a uPVC or composite door, but it's not as easy as putting one in a wood door. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which affect the way holes are cut and what you're fixing into. To avoid costly errors to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that you consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you're fitting the flap into an existing wooden door it is recommended that you introduce your cat first to ensure that it becomes familiar with its size and shape. Find out the size of your cat's belly It is important to know the measurements of your cat to make sure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will help you ensure that your cat flap is placed at the right height on the door or window, and that it is large enough for him to get in and out easily. Place your pet on its back and gently run your fingers over their belly. Look for any squishy fat pads – these might be visible around their lower back, face, and legs. The padding provides your pet protection and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the many acrobatics felines are famous for. You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you require. If your cat weighs more than 5kg, for instance, the suggested cat flap opening size is 14x12cm. Measure Your Door or Window This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is designed to be installed into a door. It lets your pet move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and sit in the middle of the door. They have a dual swinging opening that opens by gently pressing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that offer extra security, so your cat won't be able to simply enter the door from the outside. A window is another common location for a cat's flap and these are easy enough to install, though they often need to be located high enough as it's difficult for cats and dogs to access them. If the window isn't sufficient in height to be used as the flap for cats, you can opt for ramps, steps or stairs that are specially designed to aid the animal in getting to it. It is possible to put a cat flap into a brickwall, but it is not recommended for those who aren't familiar with the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. It is essential to ensure that there aren't any cables and pipes within the wall before you start. Always consult an expert when you need to cut a hole in the wall for pipes or cables. cat flap installer near me www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk 's also advisable to wear goggles with a protective lens and a dust protection mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting through the walls of your home. Choose the right cat flap There are a variety of cat flaps available on the market, and come with different features. Some flaps are equipped with security features such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition that block entry by anyone who isn't authorized. They also keep your pet from allowing friends or other animals into the home. Some have insulation as well as weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture. There's also a variety of sizes, based on the size and breed of your pet. Certain cat flaps are available in rectangular shapes, while others are square or circular. The type of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're installing it to. Last but not least, consider the type of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. A simple aluminum or plastic swing-out door is one choice and is typically the cheapest. However, it will not stop other pets or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in as well. Once you've selected the appropriate cat flap and measured your window or door then it's time to install it. Mark the belly height of the door with your ruler. Use a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight on the door and not too low. Draw a template of the shape of the cat flap using your spirit level as a guide. Then, using the Jigsaw, cut the outline of the door. Once you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to create holes for screws. Prepare the Tools It's important to have the right tools when performing any DIY project. The most important things you'll require are the cat flap itself as well as a tape measure, a good pencil, a spirit level, drill, file and an jigsaw (depending on your door or window type). If you're installing a composite door, you should check with the manufacturer prior to making any changes, because this could cause the warranty to be invalidated or break the weathertight seal. In this case it's likely you'll need to replace the glass with a new piece of toughened glass. You'll need to use the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on wooden or uPVC door. Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. Make use of a template to mark the size hole you require. After you have cut the hole, you'll have to sand off the edges of the opening. This will help prevent the possibility of water damage and rust. It is also recommended to seal the holes in your door or window and the back of the cat flap to prevent rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap! Install the Flap If you want your cat to move around as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. This is a straightforward process that most people can complete themselves, although you will likely require the assistance of an expert if you're installing the flap in a glass door or other type of uPVC door. Check out the directions that came with the cat flap. You will find a drawing of the template. This will give you an idea of where the holes will be drilled to install the flap on the door. Note the areas you'll need to drill in using the pencil. After you have mapped out the door's opening, use a jigsaw to cut out the design of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job, but you'll need to be comfortable with the saw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are many companies that can complete this for you at a minimal cost. Then, screw the inner part to the hole in your door. You may need to apply sealant before making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. You can then put the outer part of the flap on the top of the fixing bolts and then tighten them all. You should test the cat flap on your cat to confirm that it's working properly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.