Cat Flap Installation Cost

If you want to allow your pet to come and go at their own pace, without having to open the door, you can put in a cat flap. But, it is recommended to employ a licensed professional to do so. They are able to handle the complexity of putting in different types of cat flaps onto different walls and doors.
Installation
With a cat flap, your pet can enter and out of the house at will without you having to open the door. There are a variety of pet flaps to choose from including microchip-reading and bite-proof doors to fully insulated cat flaps. These come with a variety of different materials and frames including PVC or plastic to aluminum and stainless steel. The frame you select will affect the cost. Steel frames made of stainless or aluminum 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 a frame for a cat flap. If you are looking to restrict access to your pets, then you should opt for a pet flap that is locked. They use your pet's infrared or microchip to allow them in. They're more expensive than standard pet flaps but are worth the extra investment to ensure your pet's safety.
The next thing to consider is the kind of door or wall you want to fit the flap on. The most commonly used installation spots are in doors, but they can also be inserted to windows and walls. The best way to get the job done is to hire a professional. They will have the right equipment and know-how to ensure that your pet flap is correctly fitted.
It is not uncommon for homeowners to try to install the flap on their own. This could be risky and could result in expensive repairs in the future. They could also harm the surface of the uPVC panel or the door they are trying to install the cat flap on. It's generally more cost-effective to hire a tradesperson to complete the task to avoid problems like these.
When you install a cat flap, you should also be aware that it could take some time for your pet to become used to it. It may take weeks, days or even months for your pet to get comfortable with it. You can aid them in adapting in the meantime by encouraging them to open the flap with the help of a treat they enjoy or by gradually desensitizing.
Materials
Materials used to install a cat flap will vary according to the type of flap and the door it's being installed to. This includes a variety of tools, including drills, files or jigsaw as well as a spirit level. These tools will require safety equipment that could add cost to the project. You will also need other materials, such as the cat flap itself. The cost of the project will also be affected by the kind of material used to frame the cat flap. Frames made of plastic are generally cheaper than aluminum or stainless-steel alternatives.
Before you begin to install the flap ensure that you have read the instructions included with your kit. These instructions should include a sketch of the opening you want to use for your flap. This will give you an idea of where to put the hole in your door and how big it should be. Make use of a spirit-level to make sure that the line on your door is straight. If you are unsure about the best place to put the opening for your flap, it's worth measuring from your floor up to your cats belly height. This will ensure that your cat can easily get through the flap.
Once you have marked the location of the hole you can begin cutting your door. It is crucial to employ a spirit-level to ensure the line stays straight and avoid any accidents. Make sure you're not cutting through any gas, electricity, or waste pipes or structural joist (RSJ) in your door frame or wall. If you're not sure then it's a good idea to have a professional carry out the task for you.
Once you have cut out the hole in the door, it is an ideal idea to paint the outside of the door, particularly in the case where the wood is exposed. This will prevent moisture and water from destroying the wood. Sealant can be used to protect the edges of the cut out.
Labour
If you want to ensure a professional job, it is worth hiring a vetted tradesperson for the installation of your pet flap. It may cost a little more, but you will prevent any damage to your wall or door. This will also make your pet more comfortable and less stressed as they leave the house or return to the house. This reduces the chances that your pet will scratch furniture or cause damage within the house. This can cause costly repairs and replacements.
A professional will also need to test the flap and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that your pet is comfortable using it. This may include setting the reader to only recognize your pet's chip and ensuring that your pet feels at ease using the flap.
The kind of cat flap that you choose will also affect the cost of labor. Certain surfaces require more work to install because they are more difficult to cut into. For instance a microchip pet flap is more expensive than a standard model, but it offers more security, allowing access to pets that have a microchip that is compatible with the pet.
Some cat flaps come with locks, which can be helpful in keeping unwanted visitors out. However, these can be not reliable and costly to replace. For this reason, it is recommended to test and get your pet used to the flap before installing one. Using treats and keeping the flap open will aid in introducing your pet to it.
Once the flap is fitted, you will need to make sure it is secure by securing it using an additional piece of wood or a steel bolt. This is a crucial step, as it will prevent unwanted intruders from entering your home. Paint the cut-out edge of the fence to guard against decay or water damage.
Before you choose a contractor for your cat flap install ation it is recommended to check their prices and reviews. This will allow you to get the best price for your project.
Insurance
Depending on the type of cat flap you select the cost of installation will differ. PVC or plastic pet flaps are the least expensive and microchip cat flaps and other advanced options are more expensive. A reliable professional can advise you on the best pet flap for your requirements and budget.
The type of door or wall that you want the cat flap to fit into will also affect the price. Professionals can install them in the majority of doors, including composite, uPVC, and wooden doors. However, they may have to build an external frame to make the installation appear more tidy.
It is crucial to know the width and height of your pet before installing a cat flap. This will ensure that the flap is sized correctly. This will prevent accidents, such as your cat sustaining injuries by jumping through a window.
The size of the flap is also important, as it should be large enough to allow your pet to easily get through it. If the flap is small it could be difficult for your pet to get it open. They may end up stuck inside.
You should also consider whether you'd like to purchase a framed or unframed flap, as well as the material that it is constructed of. Typically, frames are more expensive than unframed ones, however they are more durable. Additionally the flaps that are framed 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 consider any other accessories you might require. This could include collar tag readers as well as a security bolt, and an animal door lock. Microchip cat flaps are most expensive, but they are more secure and can be programmed to recognize only your pets.
It is crucial to employ a vetted tradesperson to do the job, because the wrong installation of a cat flap could cause injuries and damage. A professional installation is worth the extra cost for peace of mind. Moreover, the right flap can help you save money on heating and cooling by keeping your home warmer during winter and cooler in summer. Additionally, it could also increase the value of your property.