How to Install a Security Screen Pet Door
When you want the flexibility of allowing your pet to enter and leave your house and still want to maintain home security, a security screen pet door is the perfect solution. You can avoid having to let your pet in and out, and you don’t have to worry about unwanted animals or other people trying to get inside while you are at home.
What Is a Security Screen Pet Door?
The most common security screen pet door is an electronic pet door that uses a combination of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) and motion sensors to open only for your pets. It works by using tags on each pet’s collar or microchip implants, which are detected when the animal approaches the door.
However, there are also other types of pet doors that are compatible with security screen doors that may only have a pet flap.
What Are the Benefits of Installing a Security Screen Pet Door?
- Increased Security – Security screen pet doors provide an extra layer of protection by only allowing your pets to enter and exit the home while keeping out unwanted intruders or other animals.
- Convenience – Your pet can access their outdoor space without you having to let them in and out throughout the day, saving you time and energy.
- Temperature Control – Pet doors help maintain a more consistent temperature indoors, which can save on energy costs as well as improve overall climate control in your home year-round.
- Improved Hygiene – The tight-fitting door and door flap keep dirt, dust, pollen, and other allergens from entering your house when pets come in from outside.
What Tools Are Needed to Install a Security Screen Pet Door?
- Measuring Tape
- Drill and Drill Bits
- Screwdriver
- Hammer
- Marker or Pencil
- Level
- Protective Eyewear
- Security Screen Door
- Pet Door
Please remember you may require additional tools depending on the style of screen door and pet door you install.
Steps to Install a Security Screen Pet Door
Generally, the steps required to install a security screen pet door include the following:
- Purchase a security screen door and pet door that will fit in the designated area on the screen door.
- Make sure you have all the necessary tools before beginning the installation.
- Review the installation instructions that came with the screen door and the pet door.
- Install the pet door before installing the screen door.
- Measure the width and height of your pet’s door opening.
- Mark where you want to install the pet door frame on the screen door with a pencil or marker.
- Carefully cut the screen to create the opening for the pet door.
- Using a level, ensure that the pet door is straight.
- Install the pet door until it is securely in place.
- Install the screen door.
- Install weather stripping between the frame and wall for extra protection against drafts.
- Test out your new security screen pet door by having your pet use it to ensure the pet flap opens and closes properly.
If the security door has a metal or stainless steel screen mesh, you need to install vinyl or plastic glazing over it before installing the pet door.
What If I Already Have a Security Screen Door Installed?
If your home already has a security screen door installed, then you just need to install the pet door. Start by ensuring the screen door is closed before measuring and marking where you want to install the pet door. Then, use a sharp blade or another cutting tool to carefully remove the screen mesh where the pet door will be installed.
Tips for Choosing a Pet Door for a Security Screen Door
- Verify the pet door you choose is compatible with the screen door.
- Select a pet door that matches the size of your pet.
- Consider getting an automatic locking/unlocking pet door for added security.
It is easy to find a pet door to install in a security screen door at Australia Pet Doors. Browse our online store or contact us at +61-437-644-330 for further assistance today.