If you have a uPVC door in your home, you may be wondering whether it is possible to fit a cat flap. uPVC doors are known for their durability, insulation, and resistance to weather elements, making them a popular choice for many households. However, their smooth and seamless surface can pose a challenge when it comes to installing a cat flap.
In this article, we will explore the feasibility of fitting a cat flap in a uPVC door and discuss potential solutions for cat owners seeking to provide their furry friends with the freedom they deserve to a enter and leave your house as they please.
Can a fit a cat flap in a uPVC door?
Cat flaps can be installed in uPVC doors and it’s generally quite easy to do. However, it’s important to note that not all doors are suitable for cat flap installation. Before installing a cat flap in a door, it is recommended to contact a professional who specializes in door installations or a uPVC door manufacturer for advice. They can guide you on whether your specific door is suitable for a cat flap and assist with the installation process.
Can you Install a cat flap in half glazed uPVC door
The easiest uPVC door to install a cat clap in is a half glazed door with a uPVC panel in the bottom. Typically the uPVC panel will be 24/28mm thick and can be cut using circular saw. If your unable to do this yourself, you can purchase a uPVC panel from a manufacturer like Astraframe who will cut the panel to size and install a cat flap.
We recommend for uPVC door panels is the PetSafe Staywell cat flap for uPVC panels, as its a cost effective secure cat flap, however, there is a range of cat flaps on the market including electronic chip cat flaps that also can be installed into uPVC panel doors in the same way.
Typically the cost of a half glazed uPVC panel with a cat flap is around £60 inc VAT.
Installing a cat flap in a full glazed uPVC door
Did you know it is also possible to install a cat flap into a full glazed door? This is only possible by ordering a replacement double-glazed sealed unit from a glass supplier with a premade hole for the cat flap. Although its technically possible to cut a hole and reseal an existing sealed unit, practically it can only be done by a professional glass supplier, and they often wont touch another sealed unit. so purchasing a new sealed unit is really the only option.
You will need to make sure that your cat flap is compatible with being installed in glass.
Typically the cost of a sealed unit with a cat flap is around £300 inc VAT.
Why Installing a cat flap in a Composite door is not recommended
While it is technically possible to install a cat flap in a composite door, its not recommended.
Composite doors are manufactured using layers of compressed timber (or hardened foam for cheaper composite doors) which is then sandwiched together in a fiberglass skin.
Due to the make up of the door, Cutting a hole in a composite door will compromise the integrity of the door and could allow water to leak inside the door slab itself. which over time will cause the door to expand, warm and even rot the insides.
Contact Astraframe for Assistance
You can call or email us to discuss your requirement for a UPVC panel or a double glazed unit with a premade hole for a cat flap and request a free quote.
Phone: 01603 763189
Email: [email protected]
Conclusion
Installing a cat flap in a upvc door is quite common and is relatively easy to install. The cat flap can be installed in a upvc panel or double glazing glass sealed unit. In both cases you are best to contact a professional company who can supply the panel or glass with a premade hole.
