The only thing better than a sliding screen door is one with a pet door in it. Fortunately there are lots of options available on the market. Placing the pet door within a sliding screen door allows you and your pet easy access to the indoors and outdoors. One nice thing about modern pet doors is they can be fitted into existing screen doors or pre-installed as part of a new door purchase.
Pre-installed Pet Doors
You can purchase a new dog door for sliding doors pre-installed, and save some time and effort.
There are many different configurations available, but the most common material for the screen door frame is still aluminum due to its outstanding durability and color possibilities Vinyl is a close second. The pet door frame is usually the same material as the door, and can come with a screen, glass, or high density insert. Many of the designs use magnets to keep the pet door closed when not in use.
Make sure that the hinge mechanism on the pet door is of good quality, because this is the moving part that gets the most use. A good quality screen material can also ensure that your new door lasts a considerable time.
Custom Fitted Pet Doors
You can installer to custom fit a pet door into your existing sliding screen door, or you can do it yourself. The advantage of the do-it-yourself option is that you can save money and order the pet door to suit your pet. Here are a few things to consider when ordering your pet door:
- If your sliding screen door is different than the standard 1/2 inch thickness, the pet door will need to be special ordered.
- The pet door height should be just above your pet’s shoulders at the top of the opening.
- You should determine which corner you want to install the pet door on, from the perspective of standing inside the house.
To install, remove the spline (rubber cord) from one corner and peal back the screen just enough to make room for the new pet door. Line up the pet door with the door corner, drill pilot holes, and screw it in place. Finally reinstall the screen corner and spline over top of the pet door frame, cut out the excess, and trim. All done.
Happy owner! Happy pet!
Cat and Dog Door Installation
The next time your pet sends his or her paws through your screen, give us a call at (323) 498-2417 because we provide custom, professional cat and dog door installation. Our work is done with our own crews (Lic # 298720) – not subcontractors and, when it comes to windows and doors, we are certified Installation Masters. To find out more about our installation services, or to check out our supply of pet doors, stop by Tashman Home Center . We can provide the right solution for your pet-related problem.