Cat Flap Installation Cost
Install a cat flap if want your pet to leave and come back whenever they like without having to open the front door. It is recommended to hire a professional to install the cat flap. They can take care of fitting various types of cat flaps onto different walls and doors.
With a cat flap, your pet is able to enter and leave the house at will without you having to open the door. The range of pet flaps available on the market is extensive, ranging from bite-proof and microchip reading doors to fully enclosed cat flaps. They are available in a variety of frames and materials, ranging from PVC or plastic to stainless and aluminum. The kind of frame you select will impact the total cost. Aluminum or stainless steel frames are more durable and last longer than plastic or PVC frames.
You should also think about what kind of access you'd like to provide when choosing the frame for a cat flap. If you are looking to restrict other pets' access, you should choose an animal door that is locked. They use your pet's microchip or infrared sensor to allow them inside. These are more expensive than standard pet doors however, they're worth the extra money for security.
The next step is to choose which kind of door or wall you'd like to install the flap in. The majority of the time, they are installed on doors. However they can also be fitted into walls and windows. The best method to get the job done is to work with an expert. They'll have the equipment and experience necessary to ensure that your pet's cage is properly installed.
Many homeowners will attempt to install the flap themselves however, this could be risky and cause costly repairs later. It's also likely that they'll damage the surface of the door or uPVC panel they're trying to put the flap into. To avoid such issues it's generally cheaper to hire an expert to complete the work.
When you are installing a flap for your cat be sure to be aware that it might take time for your pet to become used to it. It may take days, weeks, or even months for your pet to get comfortable with it. In the meantime, you can help them adjust by encouraging them to walk through the flap by offering them their favourite treat or by gradually reducing their sensitivity.
Materials
The materials used in the installation of a cat flap differ depending on the kind of cat flap and the door it is fitted to. This includes a range of tools, like a jigsaw, a spirit level along with a file and drill. These tools might require safety equipment, which could add to the overall cost of the project. Other materials such as a cat flap itself will also be required. The type of material the cat flap is built in will also impact the total cost of the job. Frames made of plastic are generally less expensive than aluminum and stainless steel.
Before you start to fit the cat flap, read the instructions provided with your cat flap kit. These instructions should include a template of the opening for your flap. This will give you an idea of how large the hole should be and where it should go within your door. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line of your door is straight. If you're unsure about the best place to put the opening for your flap, it's worth measuring from your floor up to the height of your cat's belly. This will ensure that your cat will be able to easily pass through the opening.
Once you have marked the location of the hole, you can begin cutting out your door. Utilizing a spirit level to ensure that the line is straight and to avoid any accidents. Be sure not to cut through any gas, electricity or waste pipes or structural joists (RSJ) that are in your wall frame or door. If you're unsure, it is recommended to hire a professional carry out the task for you.
Once you have cut out the hole in the door, it's an ideal idea to paint the outside of the door, particularly when the timber is exposed. This will prevent moisture and water from getting into the wood and damaging the wood. Sealant can be used to protect the edges of the cut-out.
Labour
It is recommended to hire an experienced tradesperson to put in your pet flap if you want a professional result. It may cost a little more, but you will be able to avoid any damage to your wall or door. This will also make your pet happy and less stressed as they go outside or return inside. This means they are less likely to scratch furniture or make mess inside the home, which can lead to costly repairs and replacements.
A professional will also need to test the cat flap and make any final adjustments to ensure that your pet is comfortable using it. This may include setting up the microchip reader to ensure that it can only read your pet's microchip, and making sure that your pet is able to use the flap.
The type of cat flap you select will also affect the cost of labor. Certain types of flaps are more difficult to cut into and will require more labor to put in. A pet flap with a microchip, for example, is more expensive than a standard model, but it offers more security by only allowing pets with a compatible chip to enter.
Certain cat flaps come with locks that can be helpful in keeping unwanted guests out. However, they can be not reliable and costly to replace. It is recommended to de-sensitize your pet to the flap before installing one. By feeding them treats and keeping the flap open will help your pet become accustomed to it.
After the flap has been installed, you'll need secure it with bolts or an additional piece wood. This is a vital step because it will stop unwanted intruders from getting into your home. It is also crucial to seal the edge of the hole cut out in order to guard against water damage and rotting.
Before you choose a contractor for your cat flap installation it is an excellent idea to compare their prices and reviews. This will help you find the most competitive price for your project.
Insurance
Based on the type of cat flap you pick, the installation cost will vary. Plastic or PVC pet flaps are the most affordable as microchip cat flaps and other advanced options are more expensive. A reliable professional will be able advise you on the best pet flap for your needs and budget.
The price can be affected by the kind of door or wall you would like the cat flap to be installed on. Professionals can fit them into most types of doors, including composite, uPVC, and wooden doors. However, they may need to put in an external frame to make the installation appear more tidy.
Before you get a cat flap installed, it is important to measure the height and width of your pet to ensure the flap will be suitable. This will prevent accidents, like your cat hurting themselves by jumping through a window.
The flap should be big enough for your pet to easily slide through it. If the flap isn't big enough it could be difficult for your pet to get it open. They could end up stuck inside.
Take into consideration the material of the flap and if you would like it to be framed or not. Frames tend to be more expensive than unframed flaps, however they provide greater durability. Framed flaps are also more secure than those that aren't, since they are less likely to be lost or taken.
It is also important to consider any accessories you may require. These can include the collar tag reader or a security bolt as well as the pet door lock. Microchip cat flaps are most expensive, however they are more secure and can be programmed to identify only your pets.
It is essential to hire an approved tradesperson for the job, since the wrong installation of a cat flap could cause injuries and damage. The assurance that comes from a professional installation is usually worth the cost. Moreover, the right flap can help you save money on cooling and heating by keeping your home warmer in the winter months and cooler in the summer. It can also increase the value of your property.