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Installing a Pet Door All by Yourself

If you’re a pet owner, you have a special bond with your furry friend. In fact, you probably consider them a special part of the family. As a family member, they deserve the freedom and right to move in and out of the house as they please.

exterior backdoor with dog doors

That’s why you must learn how to install a pet door. Don’t worry! Pet door installation is not rocket science. Anyone can do it. First, here’s a list of the tools you’ll need:

Hammer
Jigsaw
Drill & drill bits
Screwdriver
Tape Measure
Tape
Pencil
Level
Scissors
Duct tape
Caulk

Tools sorted? Then let’s move on to the basic steps needed to install your pet door.

1. Pick a Location

The first step to installing your pet door is to pick the best location for the pet door. The ideal pet door installation should be done on a door that’s the easiest for your pet to access.

2. Measure the Size Needed

Your pet must be able to comfortably fit through the pet door. To do this, ensure the width and height are about five centimeters more than your pet’s dimensions.

(H2) 3. Mark the Area You’ll Place the Pet Door

Using the template that came with your pet door, trace the ideal pet door placement on your door. Mark the inside corners of the dog door opening, as they determine where you’ll need to make your cuts.

4. Drill Holes and Cut Out Template Size

Remove the door from its hinges and place it on a level surface. Drill holes inside the corners of the area you marked off and use a jigsaw to cut out the hole.

5. Place the Frame and Flap

Check if the frame of your pet door fits in the hole you cut out. If it doesn’t, trim the opening until it fits. Place the interior and exterior frames, with the flap in the opening, and screw them in place.

6. Ensure Everything is Sealed

Using caulk, seal the inner part of the outer frame to keep outside air from coming inside.

7. Hang the Door Back Up

golden dog walks through a home doggie door

Last, hang your door back up and train your pet to use the pet door.

Pet Door Installation – Easy as Pie

Now that you have your exterior door with pet door installed, you can rest easy knowing your furry best friend has their own key to the house. If you need a pet door, feel free to browse our inventory for the perfect pet door.