Allowing your cat to enter and go from the house at its own pace is a good idea to keep it mentally and physically stimulated. A flap can reduce accidents with toilets by making it easier for cats to leave the house if needed.

Take a look at the Door

A cat flap lets your pet move around as they'd like without needing to open the door. This makes it ideal to keep them in the house when you're at home or away, and helps keep unwanted pests out of your home too!

It's important to measure the door before you purchase the cat flap, as there are different sizes available. It is then possible to ensure that the cat flap is the proper size for your upvc doors. Otherwise, it could be too large or too small and your cat might have trouble using it.

Before you take any action, though, use a ruler to measure the length of the door in several places along its edge. Also, take measurements of the door's height in a couple of places. A door that is too tall can cause your cat to perform an exercise routine every time it uses the flap.

Ask a glazier for assistance if you aren't sure what to measure for the door. They'll be able help you determine whether or your door is suitable for a cat flap, and advise you on the right size of flap to buy.

After you've gotten your measurements, the next thing to do is to draw out the shape of the hole on the door. This will assist you when cutting the hole and save you money!

Make sure that you put the hole in the right place. If you are fitting the cat flap onto a patio door it is vital that the hole does not be too close to hinges. This could cause leakage or problems with the seal.

It is best to delegate the job of installing a cat flap on glass doors to an experienced glazier. It may be difficult to fit a cat-flap into an existing pane. It is also possible that it cracks and loses its weatherproof seal.

Measure the Cat

A cat flap allows your pet to leave and come back whenever they want without you needing to leave him on his own. It also helps keep draughts out of your home, which isn't bad for you or your cat!

However, if you have a uPVC or composite door, it could be a challenge to put in a cat flap. These doors are made from different materials and the process of installing them is different. Before you decide to install an egress flap to your uPVC or composite door, ensure that it's compatible and that you have consulted the manufacturers as alterations may invalidate any warranties.

Generally speaking, these kinds of doors are built to be tough and durable, with insulation built in. This makes them more resistant to the elements of weather than other doors, however they can be difficult to fit a cat flap into. Get advice from a professional before installing a cat flap onto the uPVC door or composite.

To ensure that your cat is able to access the door, you'll need determine their height. It's easier to measure their height when they're calm or asleep, so that they don't sway around. Once you've determined their height, measure the distance between their stomach and the floor to determine where the bottom of the cat flap should be. You can then mark this spot on the door.

If you are using power tools to cut your uPVC or composite door, you will need be extra cautious. Cutting into metal can cause cracks, particularly if the area is composed of toughened glass. It is highly recommended to employ an expert glass installer when putting in a cat flap in a pane. This will stop the glass from becoming brittle or shattering. A glazier will also be capable of providing you with a circular cat flap hole that is less likely to break and is safer for your cat to use.

Cut replacement upvc door panels with cat flap

If not, you can make one yourself using a sheet of thin paper (tracing paper is the best choice). If it isn't, you can create one by using an uncoated sheet of paper (tracing paper is a good choice). After the shape has been penciled in on the door, use your spirit level and make sure that it is horizontal. This will allow your cat flap to be properly seated in the opening and prevent it being able to slide open or close.

Next, make use of a jigsaw to cut out the pattern that is marked on the door. Make sure you are using a blade suitable for use on uPVC doors. Usually, it will be marked accordingly however, if not, ask the staff at the DIY store for guidance. Once you have the hole made, place the flap section against it and then push it open to make sure that the flap's movement is smooth. If it becomes stuck at any point, you can use a filer or a rasp to remove it.

You should also check whether there are any electric gas or cable lines within the door you'll be cutting through as they could be damaged by the jigsaw. Similarly you should be aware of any handles or other fixtures on the door that will have to be removed in order to make room for the cat flap. Be careful not to harm them in the process.

Most people who install a cat flap on their own have the standard solid uPVC front door, meaning they won't have to deal with these problems. If your door is made of wood or has a decorative part that cannot be removed, this will complicate the job.

It is always worth seeking expert help from a cat flap fitter when it comes to these types of jobs since it is essential to do them done right to avoid potential issues in the future. Making the wrong choice could lead to the door being damaged and could make it impossible to honor the warranty.

Install the Flap

After you've made your hole drilled, put the flap on to test if it fits and can be opened easily. If you find any points that stick or catch to the door, smooth them out using the aid of a hand file or sandpaper until it fits correctly and opens with no issues. Make sure that the flap is in a flush position with the door.

If your kit doesn't have an example, you could use thin paper like tracing or acetate. Place the paper on the door and draw a line where you want to position the flap (this will be your cutting guide). Then, using the pencil lines you've drawn on the door, mark out four screw holes in the corners of the flap - these will be the screws you'll use to fit it in place.

Most uPVC doors are strong and easy to cut. If your door is made of GRP or composite, it can be more difficult. If you're not familiar with this, it is recommended to consult a professional. They will also be able to tell you if your door is suitable for the installation of a cat flap.

If you're planning to install a cat flap in composite doors, it is important to first consult with the manufacturer or a professional joiner. Any modifications made to the doors could make it impossible to honor the warranty. If you decide to do the work yourself, keep in mind that it can be a messy job and may even be hazardous.

You'll need a saw or grinder to cut through composite doors more than only the GRP. This can be a dangerous task, and you'll require extra care to avoid damaging the door. It's also important to note that cutting a hole into any type of door glass is much more difficult than making the same change in a uPVC or solid timber door.
replacement upvc door panels with cat flap