Allowing your cat to come and go out of the home at its own pace is a good idea to keep it physically and mentally active. A flap can help reduce toileting incidents by making it easier for cats to leave the home when needed.<br /><br />Measure the Door<br /><br />A cat flap lets your pet to move around at their own pace, without having to open the door for them. This is ideal for keeping them in the home when you're away and helps to keep unwanted pests out of the home too!<br /><br />It is important to measure the door prior to when you buy a cat flap since there are a variety of sizes available. This will ensure that you purchase the correct size that fits into your upvc door, otherwise, it could be too small or too large, and your cat may be unable to use it.<br /><br />Before you do anything, though, take a ruler and measure the width of the door in several locations along its edge. You should also determine the height of the door in a few places. This is because doors that are too high could cause your cat to do an exercise routine like a gymnast every time they need to use the flap!<br /><br />Get help from a glazier when you're unsure of what to measure for the door. They will be able to help you determine whether or the door you have is suitable for a cat flap, and help you decide on the best size of flap to purchase.<br /><br />When <a href="https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/bournemouth-cat-flap-installer-near-me/">cat flap double glazing</a> got your measurements, the next thing to do is mark the shape of the hole in the door. This will help you when you cut the hole, and will save you money!<br /><br />You should also make sure that the hole you're creating is placed in the right spot. For example, if you're installing the cat flap on a patio door, you must ensure that the hole isn't too close to hinges, since this could cause leakage and problems with the seal.<br /><br />It is recommended to leave the installation of the cat flap on glass doors to an experienced glazier. It isn't easy to install a cat-flap in an existing pane. You may also find that it breaks and loses its weatherproof seal.<br /><br />Measure the Cat<br /><br /><br /><br />A cat flap allows your pet to come and go whenever they want without having to leave them to themselves. It can also prevent draughts entering your home, which isn't beneficial for your cat as well as you.<br /><br />If you own a uPVC door or composite, it may be difficult to install a cat flap. These doors are constructed of different materials and the installation is different. Before you consider fitting the cat flap on your uPVC or composite door, be sure that it's compatible, and you have checked with the manufacturers as alterations may invalidate any warranties.<br /><br />These doors are typically designed to be durable and tough and have insulation. They are more resistant to the elements than other kinds of door, but it isn't always easy to install a cat flap. If you're uncertain about whether your uPVC or composite door will accommodate a cat flap, consult with a professional joiner before beginning.<br /><br />You'll need to take their height to ensure they pass through the door. It is easiest to measure their height when they are calm or asleep, so that they don't move around. Once you have their height and weight, you can determine the distance between their stomachs and the floor to determine the position of the bottom of the flap. You can then mark this spot on the door.<br /><br />When you use power tools to cut your uPVC or composite door, you need to be careful. The process of drilling into metal can cause it to crack, especially in the case of toughened glass. This is why it's advisable to hire a glazier when installing your cat flap inside a pane of glass. This will stop the glass from becoming brittle or shattering. A glazier will also be able to provide you with a circular cat flap that is less likely to break and is safer for your cat to use.<br /><br />Cut the Hole<br /><br />If not however, you can make one yourself using a sheet of paper (tracing paper is the best choice). If it doesn't, create your own using a thin piece of paper (tracing papers are perfect). After the shape has already been drawn on the door, you can utilize your spirit level to make sure that it is horizontal. This will ensure that the cat flap is positioned correctly in the door, and it will not slide open or close.<br /><br />Then, you can use your jigsaw, and cut the shape marked on the door. Use a blade designed for uPVC doors. It will typically be marked with this information. If not, ask the staff in the DIY store for assistance. After the hole has been cut, place the flap section against it and open it to ensure that the flap moves smoothly. If it binds at any point, use the filer or the rasp to fix this.<br /><br />Make sure there aren't any gas or electric pipes inside the door you're going to cut through. Your jigsaw could cause damage to them. Similarly you should be aware of any handles or other door fixtures that need to be removed to install the cat flap and be cautious not to scratch them during this process.<br /><br />Most people who fit the cat flap themselves have a standard solid uPVC door and will not be dealing with any of these problems. If your door is made of wood or has a decorative part that is not easily removed, this can make the task.<br /><br />It is always worth seeking expert help from a cat flap fitter for these kinds of jobs since it is essential to do the job done correctly to avoid potential issues in the future. If you do it wrong, it could lead to the door being damaged and may invalidate the warranty.<br /><br />Install the Flap<br /><br />Once you've made your hole, place the flap and check if it opens and is able to fit. If you notice any spots that stick or catch to the door, smooth them out using the aid of a hand file or sandpaper until it fits properly and opens without issue. Make sure the flap is flush with the door too.<br /><br />Some kits come with an example of this, however, even if yours does not provide a template, you could use a piece or thin paper instead - something similar to tracing paper. Place the paper on the door, and draw a line to show where the flap should be placed (this will serve as a cutting guide). Draw four screw holes at every corner of the flap with the pencil marks you created on the door. These are the screw points that will be used to secure it in place.<br /><br />Most uPVC doors are solid and therefore quite straightforward to cut into. But, if your door is made from GRP or a composite, it can be more challenging. If you are not familiar with this, it is recommended that you hire an expert. They will also be able to determine if your door is suitable for installing an animal flap.<br /><br />You can fit an opening for a cat flap in composite doors, but it is important to verify with the manufacturer or a professional joiner prior to making any changes because any changes to these doors could void the warranty. If you choose to carry out the work yourself, be aware that this could be messy and hazardous task.<br /><br />For composite doors, you'll typically need to use a grinder or saw to cut through the door's frame rather than just through the GRP. Be aware that this could be extremely dangerous work and you'll need to take extreme care not to hurt the door or yourself as it is extremely fragile. It's also important to note that cutting a hole into any type of door glass is much more difficult than making the same changes in a uPVC or solid wooden door.<br /><br />