Cat Flap Installation Cost

If you want to allow your pet to come and go whenever they want without having to open the door, you can put in a cat flap. It is recommended to hire a professional to install the flap. They are able to handle the complexity of fitting different kinds of cat flaps to various walls and doors.
Installation
With a cat flap, your pet can enter and leave the house at will without you having to open the door. The range of pet flaps on the market is vast, from microchip-proof and bite-proof doors to fully lined cat flaps. They are available with a variety of different materials and frames, from plastic or PVC to aluminum and stainless steel. The frame you pick will impact the price. Aluminum or stainless steel frames are more durable and last longer than plastic or PVC frames.
It is also important to consider the type of access you would prefer to grant when selecting the frame for your cat flap. If you are looking to restrict access to your pets, you should opt for a locking pet flap. These make use of your pet's infrared microchip to allow them in. They're more expensive than standard pet flaps however they are worth the extra cost for peace of mind.
The next thing to consider is the kind of wall or door you'd like to install the flap on. The most commonly used installation spots are in doors, but they can also be put into windows and walls. It is best to employ a professional tradesperson for the job. They'll have the right equipment and know-how to ensure that your pet flap is properly installed.
Many homeowners will attempt to fit a cat flap themselves however this could be dangerous and lead to costly repairs later. It's also likely that they will damage the door's surface or uPVC panel they're trying to put the flap onto. To avoid these problems it's generally more affordable to hire a professional to do the job.
You should also be aware that your pet may require some time to get familiar with the flap. It could take days, weeks or even months before they're accustomed to using it on a regular basis. 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 de-sensitizing them.
Materials
The materials used in the installation of a cat flap are different depending on the kind of cat flap and door it is fitted to. These include a range of tools, including the jigsaw, a file and a drill. These tools can require safety equipment that could increase the cost of the project. Other materials like a cat flap itself will also be required. The type of material that the cat flap is framed in will have an impact on the total cost of the project. Plastic frames tend to be less expensive than stainless-steel or aluminum alternatives.
Before you begin to install the cat flap, go through the instructions that came with your cat flap kit. They should include a template sketch of the opening for the flap. This will give an idea of what the hole should be and where it should be placed in your door. Use a spirit-level to ensure that the line on your door is straight. If you are unsure regarding where to place the flap's opening consider measuring from your floor up to the height of your cat's belly. This will ensure that your cat will be able to easily fit through the opening.
Once you've marked the position of the hole, you can begin cutting out your door. Make use of a spirit-level to ensure that the line is straight and avoid any mishaps. Make sure you're not cutting through gas, electricity or waste pipes or structural joist (RSJ) in your wall or door frame. If you're not sure, it is recommended to hire a professional carry out the work for you.
After you have cut the hole in the door it is a great idea to paint the outside of the door. This is especially true when the wood has been exposed. This will stop moisture and water from soaking into the wood and damaging the wood. Sealant can be used to protect the edges of the cut.
Labour
If you're looking to guarantee a professional job you should consider hiring a vetted tradesperson to install your pet flap. This may cost you some extra money but it will stop any unnecessary damage to your door or wall. This will also make your pet happy and less stressed as they leave the house or come back inside. This will reduce the likelihood that your pet will scratch furniture or cause damage within the house. This could result in costly repairs and replacements.
In addition to fitting the flap for your cat, a pro will be required to conduct a few tests and final adjustments to ensure that your pet can comfortably use it. This can include setting up the microchip reader to ensure that it can only read your pet's microchip, as well as making sure that your pet is comfortable with the flap.
The kind of cat flap you choose will also impact your labor costs. Certain surfaces require more work for installation because they are harder to cut into. For instance the microchip pet flap is more expensive than a regular model, but it provides greater security because it only allows access to pets that have an approved microchip.
Some cat flaps are equipped with locks, which can be useful for keeping unwanted visitors out. However, they can be unreliable and expensive to replace. It is recommended to de-sensitize the pet to the flap before installing one. You can help your dog become accustomed to the flap by feeding it treats and leaving the flap open.
After the flap has been installed, you'll need fix it using a bolt or an extra piece wood. This is a vital step, as it will prevent unwanted intruders from entering your house. Paint the cut-out edge of the fence to guard against the effects of rotting or water damage.
When you are looking for a tradesperson to install your cat flap it is recommended to check their pricing and reviews. Full Post will help you get the best deal for your project.
Insurance
The costs for installation will vary based on the type and size of cat flaps you pick. Plastic or PVC pet flaps are the cheapest and microchip cat flaps and other high-tech options can be more expensive. A professional can advise you on which pet flap is best for your budget and requirements.
The type of wall or door you need the cat flap to be fitted to can also affect the cost. In general, professional installers can install them in most doors that are made of composite, uPVC and wooden doors. They might need to put in an external frame in order to make the installation appear more tidy.
It is important to know the height and width of your pet prior to putting in a cat flap. This will ensure that the flap is sized correctly. This will help avoid accidents, such as your cat jumping through a doorway and hurting itself.
The flap should be big enough to allow your pet easily pass it. If the flap is small your pet might struggle to use it. They might end up trapped in the flap.
Think about the material used for the flap and whether you would like to frame it or not. Typically frames are more expensive than unframed ones, however they offer greater durability. Additionally, framed flaps are more secure than unframed ones as they are less likely to be knocked off or stolen.
In addition to the expense of the cat flap you should also take into consideration any additional accessories you may require. These could include a collar tag reader as well as a security bolt, and a pet door lock. Microchip cat flaps are most expensive, however they offer enhanced security and can be programmed to recognise only your pets.
A professional installer is required to install the cat flap properly. Improper installation can cause damage and injury. The peace of mind that comes with a professional installation often worth the extra expense. A good flap can assist in reducing heating and cooling costs by keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in winter. It can also increase the value your property.