Fitting a Cat Flap in a upvc Door Panel

It's easy to install a cat flap to an existing upvc or double-glazed sealed unit. However, it's one that can keep you awake at night if you do it incorrectly!

Before you begin, it's crucial to read the instructions carefully included with the flap for cats. Make sure you pencil in your shape (square circle, square) on the door's panel.

How to:

A cat flap allows your pet to enter and exit the house as they please, without you having to watch them or worry about them escaping through an open window. It also blocks cold winter air from entering and hot summer air from leaving which can you replace a panel in a upvc door help reduce your energy bills.

It is possible to fit a cat flap into an upvc panel door after some planning and preparation. It is recommended to install a cat flap at the time of construction, so it is part of the overall design and construction. If you are installing one into an old panel there are some steps to follow.

The first thing to do is to determine the height and width of the space in which you wish to fit the flap. This will allow you to determine the size of the flap you will need to purchase. Make sure your cat can move through the flap in both ways. It's important not to force them into anything they don't want to do.

Then, you'll have to draw the hole's outline using the help of a pencil. Once you have done this, you can cut out the shape by using a jigsaw that has an extremely fine cutting blade made for use with upvc and metal. Test the action of the flap. Push it both ways and make sure it shuts and opens smoothly.

If the cat flap is being fitted to a upvc door equipped with a safe lock, you should consider installing a security kit. This will stop burglars from being able access the cat flap to unlock the door and enter your home. Certain flaps are secured with magnets that are affixed to the cat's neck. However this method depends on your cat wearing an appropriate collar.

Measure

Cat flaps provide pet owners peace of mind that their animals be able to enter and leave the home only when they want to. They can also help reduce energy costs by preventing cold air from entering and hot air from leaving the property. Installing a cat flap on a upvc door panel is a relatively easy task but there are some things to take into consideration to ensure the best results.

It is best to consult a specialist before installing a cat flap on your upvc panel. This will ensure that the door is sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the cat flap, and that it is in the correct position within the upvc door panel.

After you have decided that your Upvc is suitable for the installation of a cat flap, you will need to measure the area in which you would like to place the flap. This is crucial as it allows you to purchase a cat flap large enough for your pet.

Another aspect to consider is the thickness of the Upvc door panel. In contrast to timber doors, which generally have of a uniform thicknesised. These must be carefully removed to prevent damaging the glass panel for upvc door. You may also need to cover the cut area to stop drafts and moisture from leaking in.

You'll need a jigsaw equipped with a sharp blade to cut the hole in your uPVC panel door. Make sure you use a blade specifically marked for uPVC and metal. Also, make sure you do not to cut too deeply, as you could end up damaging the frame of your door. Mark the line you want to cut in pencil and then use a spirit-level to ensure it is flush with the surface.

You can also apply silicone sealant on the cut edge to stop moisture and drafts. This will also safeguard your uPVC door from damage caused by vibrating jigsaw.

Fit

If you have a cat installing a cat flap in your door panel made of upvc will give them free access to and out of the house. It also keeps unwanted visitors out, such as rodents and other pests. If you're looking for extra security, you can buy a microchip activated cat flap to stop unwanted guests from entering your home.

Installing a cat flap on a upvc door panel is a relatively straightforward job that anyone with basic DIY skills can accomplish. If you are replacing a door or pane it may be easier to install a cat flap if the panel or double-glazed unit already has a hole made for one.

This will save a lot of effort and time because you won't have to cut an opening in the door. The most suitable upvc Front door Insert panels panel to use to make a pet flap is one with a solid core as opposed to a hollow polystyrene panel that does not provide much in the way of security.

You may not be able to put the flap in the desired height if your upvc panel or door has decorative features. You should try to put it at the highest level on your door, if it's possible to do so and your cat won't be able to reach this area through the door.

Once the cat flap is set, it's a good idea apply some decorators caulk around the edge of the panel where it meets the frame and mullion to render the joint watertight. This will stop moisture from getting into the wood and causing it to rot. It is a good idea, when you have a wooden panel or door upvc panel with decorative elements, to paint the bare wood pieces to stop them from drying out and bending.

Once everything is in place you can test the flap. You can do this by pressing an object with your finger and ensuring that it closes easily in both directions. You can also lure your cat by putting some food inside the flap.