Whether you want to add a new doggy door, replace an old one, or are looking at installing hollow interior doors for your pets, Mr. Handyman is here to help! Call our fully insured and highly qualified professionals to get your installation done.

Pet Door Installation

Pet Door Size and Placement Options

Pets come in all shapes and sizes, so pet doors need to as well. Choosing the right size and placement is overwhelming as a Do-It-Yourself project, but the experienced professionals at Mr. Handyman will help you find the perfect fit for your home and pet.

To pick the right one for your pet, we start by taking your pet’s size into consideration. Obviously, a door built for a housecat is going to be much smaller than one built for an Irish Wolfhound. 

Next, we take into consideration which type of door you are looking to install. There are a variety of door types, and each comes with its own set of pros and cons. We’ll work with you to determine which type best suits you and your pet’s needs.

Finally, we’ll help you determine how and where to place your pet door. Installing something as large as a pet door requires a certain level of construction knowledge and expertise. You don’t want to put a hole in your house or door until you’re sure it’s exactly right! Our experts will determine the best place to install your pet door based on the design of your home, the size, and style of the door, and where you would like the door to lead.

Types of Pet Doors Available

Pet doors come in a variety of materials, including glass, fiberglass, wood, and metal—we’ll help you determine which material would work best for you and your pet. 

The mechanics of your pet door is another factor to consider. Pet doors can either be traditional flap doors, open electronically, or installed as patio sliders or French doors. We’ll help you choose the right type, which will depend on factors like price, size of the door, and aesthetic requirements. 

DIY vs Professional Installation

Before attempting to DIY your pet door installation, consider whether you have the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to successfully complete the job. The last thing you need is a gaping hole in a door or your home that’s an open invitation for rodents and pests to enter.

Hiring professional pet door installers is cheaper and easier in the long run since they bring with them the tools, knowledge, and experience necessary to complete this complicated project.

Why Choose Mr. Handyman for Your Pet Door Installation

Our skilled and knowledgeable service professionals are just the team you want to complete projects such as these within your home. With nearly 200 locations across the United States and Canada, you can find a Mr. Handyman near you!

Additionally, all our projects come with the Neighborly Done Right Promise™. If a job’s not done right, then we’ll make it right. To install your new pet door, contact us now!

All Mr. Handyman franchises are locally owned and operated and may offer fewer or more services than those listed here. To learn more about the pet door service offered in your area, contact your local Mr. Handyman for details or a customized on-site assessment.

Pet Door Installation FAQs

Mr. Handyman has been helping homeowners repair, maintain, and enhance their spaces for over 25 years! We are the one-stop solution for everything on your to-do list and all your questions about home repairs, maintenance, and improvements. Here are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about pet door installation services.

What are the disadvantages of a doggy door?

Ranking number one on the list of disadvantages of installing a doggy door sits security concerns. Especially larger doggy doors can allow intruders and unwanted visitors like wildlife and stray animals to enter your home.

Additional concerns of installing doggie doors include:

  • Energy efficiency issues: Doggie doors allow cold air to enter in the winter and cooled air to escape in the summer.
  • Potential home damage: Some pets scratch at the door if it’s not opening fast enough. Pets will also track mud and dirt indoors, especially during inclement weather.
  • Warranty issues: Installing an entrance for pets typically voids the door manufacturer's warranty.
  • Pet obedience: When they can come and go as they please, pets may become less likely to follow their owners' commands, and dig and bark when they aren’t supervised

Can you install a pet door on any door?

A dog door can be added to almost any interior or exterior door..

  • Hollow core doors
  • Solid doors
  • French doors
  • Glass doors
  • Natural wood doors
  • Composite doors
  • Metal doors
  • Fiberglass doors

You can even install a pet screen door to replace a standard screen door

Is it safe to have a pet door?

Dog doors are convenient for homeowners and pets, but like any other exterior door, they should be secured when not in use. Here's why:

  • While most doggie doors are a tight fit for adults, doors for larger pets may present a security issue.
  • Doggie doors can be an access point for unwanted wildlife, including mice, cats, opossums, raccoons, and more.
  • A typical doggie door presents an opportunity for small children to make their way outdoors, creating a dangerous situation.

Where is the best place to put a pet door?

The best place to put a dog door is one that is accessible and convenient, and doesn't detract from your decor. Many homeowners choose to install a doggie door in an exterior door that provides easy access to the backyard. This location is ideal if you have a fenced-in yard to prevent your pet from roaming. If you want to limit access to your entire home, consider installing a doggie door that leads to the laundry or mud room.

Do doggy doors let cold air in?

Anytime you alter an exterior door or window, there's a risk of heat loss, especially in colder climates. For optimal energy efficiency and longevity, invest in an insulated dog door that features multiple flaps and rigid construction. Professional pet door installation will ensure a tight seal and proper alignment. It's also recommended to use a door cover or close the door when not in use.

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