The allure of a pet door is undeniable. Freedom for your furry friend means less hassle for you. But you may be wondering, “Is if good or bad to install a pet door? Could it damage my door?”
This is a question that homeowners sometimes ask when they visit our door supply showroom in Cary, NC.
Read on to learn all about how pet doors affect your door and your home.
There Are Some Benefits to Your Door of Installing a Pet Door
Of course, we know your pet would say that a pet door is a great idea!
But, there are some ways that installing a pet door might benefit your door. The main one is reduced wear and tear. Your pet will no longer scratch at the door to request to go in or out. This means that your door will have fewer unsightly scratches and dings.
It’s also true that pet doors can slightly improve the ventilation in your home. By acting as a mini-vent, a pet door can promote air circulation and preventing moisture buildup.
The Downsides of Installing a Pet Door
Of course, there are also some potential negative consequences to your door and your home of installing a pet door.
The primary con of a pet door is it’s impact on your door’s structural integrity. Cutting a hole in your door weakens its function, potentially affecting insulation and soundproofing. This is especially true for solid wood doors, as cutting into them makes them especially prone to warping and rotting.
Furthermore, pet doors can disrupt the seal between the door and frame, leading to drafts and increased energy costs.
Some homeowners are persuaded to skip a pet door when we explain the increased maintenance requirements that their door will have. Depending on the type, pet doors may require regular cleaning and repairs to flaps, locks, and weatherproofing.
Only Flush Panel Doors Can Support a Pet Door
Lastly, it’s important to consider if your door can support a pet door. Only doors with flush lower panels can be modified for a pet door. Door manufacturers will not be able to add a pet door to doors that include beveling or other cut outs where the pet door will be installed.
Door manufacturers can only install pet doors on flush panels. Beveled doors, like this one, can’t support a pet door.
Summary
Of course, the choice of whether to install a pet door is a personal one, and you should do what’s best for your family (including it’s four legged members).
Whether you decide that it’s good or bad to install a pet door, when you’re deciding on new doors for your home, you want to work with experts who can help you understand your options.
Use the calendar below to schedule a free, no obligation Window and Door Consultation Call today. We’d love to help you find the perfect doors for your home!
