Fitting a Cat Flap in a UPVC Door

The freedom to let your cat leave and enter the house as it pleases is an excellent way to keep your pet active and mentally stimulated. Having upvc door panels cat flap can also aid in reducing accidents due to toilets by making it easier for your cat to exit the house when it needs to.
Take a look at the Door
A cat flap lets your pet to move around whenever they want without having to open the door for them. This makes it ideal for keeping them in when you're home or away and helps keep unwanted pests out of the home too!
You should take measurements of the door to ensure that you get the right size cat flap. There are various sizes available. This will ensure that you purchase the correct size that fits into your upvc door, otherwise, it might be too small or large for your cat and he will be unable to use it.
Get a ruler and take measurements of the width at various locations along the edge of the door. Also, you should measure the door's height in a few places. This is because the door that is too high can cause your cat to perform an exercise routine like a gymnast every time they need to use the flap!
If you're not sure how to measure the door, it could be a good idea to seek assistance from a glazier, or someone who does this type of work frequently. They will be able determine whether your door is suitable for cat flaps and advise you on what size flap to purchase.
Once you've got your measurements, the next step to do is to draw out the shape of the hole on the door. This will provide you with an outline to cutting the hole out and will help you avoid making a mistake that could cost you money in the future!
You must also ensure that the hole you're making is placed in the right spot. For instance, if fitting the cat flap in the patio door, it is important that the hole is not too close to any hinges, since this could cause leakage and damage to the seal.
If you have an opening made of glass, it might be best to let this job to a professional glazier. It can be difficult to fit a cat-flap into an existing pane. You may also find that it breaks and loses its weatherproof seal.
Measure the Cat
A cat flap permits your pet to move around as they please without you having to leave them on their own. It also helps stop draughts from entering your home, which isn't good for you or your cat!
If you own a uPVC door or composite, it might be difficult to install the cat flap. These types of doors are usually constructed of different materials than standard wooden or uPVC doors and the procedure for installing them is different, too. Before you consider fitting the cat flap on your uPVC or composite door, make sure that it's compatible and you have checked with the manufacturer as any modifications could invalidate any warranties.
These doors are generally designed to be durable and tough, with insulation. This makes them more resistant to elements of the weather than other doors, but they can be difficult to fit an animal flap. If you're not sure if your uPVC or composite door is able to accommodate a cat flap, consult with a professional jointer prior to beginning.
You'll have to measure their height in order to make sure they fit through the door. This is easiest if they are sleeping or calm, so that they don't move around too often. Once you have their height you can measure the distance from their stomach to the floor in order to determine the location of the flap's bottom. Then, you can mark this spot on the door.
If your composite or uPVC door is made from metal (either aluminium or steel) it is important be extra cautious when cutting it with power tools. The process of drilling into metal can cause it to crack, especially if the area is toughened glass. This is why it's advisable to hire an experienced glazier when putting your cat flap inside glass. This will prevent the glass from breaking and becoming brittle. Glaziers can also provide you with a circular hole for the cat flap, which will be less likely to break and is more secure for your cat to use.
Cut the Hole
If it doesn't then you can create one yourself using a sheet of paper that is thin (tracing paper is ideal). If it does not then you can create one by using the thin paper (tracing paper is ideal). Once the shape has been pencilled in on the door you can then use a spirit level to make sure that the design is horizontal. This will ensure that your cat flap is positioned correctly in the opening, and it won't slide open or close.
Then, you can use your jigsaw, and cut the shape written on the door. Use a blade designed for uPVC door use. It will usually be labeled with this information. If not then ask the staff at the DIY store for assistance. Once the hole is cut, place the flap section against it and open it to make sure the flap moves smoothly. If it binds at any point, use a file or rasp to fix this.
Make sure there aren't any electric or gas pipes within the door you plan to cut into. Your jigsaw could cause damage to them. Also, be aware of any handles or other door fixtures which will need to be removed in order to make room for the cat flap. Be careful not to harm them during this process.
Most people who install a cat flap on their own will have the standard solid uPVC front door, which means they will not have to face these problems. If your door is made of wood or has a decorative element that cannot be removed, it will make the task.
It is always worthwhile seeking assistance from an expert cat flap fitter when it comes to these types of jobs as it is important to get them right to avoid any possible issues in the future. It is crucial to get it right, as making the wrong choice could cause damage to the door and invalidate the warranty.
Fit the Flap
After you've made your hole cut, put the flap in place to see whether it will fit and is able to open easily. If you find any points that stick or catch or stick, use a hand-file or sandpaper, to file them down until they fit perfectly and can be opened without issue. Make sure the flap is aligned with the door.
Some kits include a template for this however, even if yours does not have a template, you can use a piece or thin paper instead - something similar to tracing paper. Place the paper on the door, and draw a line to indicate the location where the flap is placed (this will serve as a cutting guide). Make four screw holes at each corner of the flap using the pencil marks you traced on the door. These will be the screw holes will be used to secure it in place.
Most uPVC doors are strong and therefore simple to cut into. However, if the door is made of GRP or a composite material, it can be more challenging. If you're not familiar with this, it is recommended to consult a professional. They can also determine if your door is suitable for installing an animal flap.
You can install a cat flap into composite doors. However, it's essential to verify with the manufacturer or a professional joiner prior to making any changes since any modifications to these doors may invalidate the warranty. If you do decide to do the work yourself, be aware that this can be a messy and potentially dangerous task.
You'll need a saw or grinder to cut through composite doors more than only the GRP. This can be a dangerous job, and you'll need to take extra care to ensure that the door is not damaged. It's important to remember that it is much more difficult to make the door glass than a uPVC door or solid wood door.