Modifying Entry Door for Pets: Pros, Cons, and Alternatives

If you have indoor/outdoor pets like dogs or cats who move between both spaces regularly, pet doors might be a major topic you’re considering for your exterior doors. In many cases, modifying current entry doors to make them more suitable for pet door entries is a great approach here.

At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re proud to serve as your one-stop shop for all things entry doors, exterior doors, garage doors, Pella windows and more around Utah and Idaho. With locations in Salt Lake City, St. George and Boise alike, we’re able to serve clients around both states for their every need – including modifying entry doors for pets. Here are some of the key reasons why a pet door might be valuable for your setup, plus a breakdown of the different modification methods available and their pros and cons for you.

Why Many Homeowners Consider Pet Doors

Firstly, why are pet doors so popular? Simply put, they offer a convenient and efficient solution for both pets and their owners. Many homeowners consider pet doors because:

• They save time and effort: Pet owners no longer have to constantly let their pets in and out of the house, especially if they have busy schedules or are physically unable to do so.
• They promote independence: By giving pets the ability to go in and out as they please, pet doors allow them more freedom and control over their own movements. This can be particularly helpful for older or disabled pets.
• They prevent accidents: Without a pet door, pets may scratch at doors or windows trying to get outside, potentially causing damage or injury.
• They can be used for multiple animals: Pet doors are not just limited to dogs and cats. Many pet owners have successfully trained smaller animals such as rabbits, ferrets, or even chickens to use a pet door.
• They come in various sizes and styles: Pet doors are not a one-size-fits-all solution. There are different sizes available for different breeds of pets, as well as options for different types of doors (sliding, screen, etc.) and even electronic smart pet doors.

Common Door Modification Methods

There are a few different methods often used to add a pet door setup to an existing exterior door:

• Built-in: For many pet owners, modifying an existing door to add a pet door is the most convenient option. This method involves cutting the door and installing a pre-built pet door kit that fits snugly into the opening.
• Panel insert: Another popular modification method is to add a panel insert to the bottom of an existing door. These panels are typically made of durable materials and can be easily removed or replaced as needed.
• Storm door: If you have a storm door installed, you can also consider adding a pet door to the bottom of it. This allows your pet to come and go freely without affecting the integrity or appearance of your main exterior door.

Pros and Cons of Pet Door Modifications

Here are some of the key benefits of pet door modifications:

• Convenience: With a pet door, you no longer have to constantly let your pet in and out of the house. This can save you time and effort, especially if you have a busy schedule.
• Comfort for your pet: Pet doors allow your furry friend to come and go as they please, giving them more freedom and potentially reducing their stress levels.
• Reduces noise: If your pet is constantly scratching or whining at the door when they want to go out, a pet door can stop this from happening.

At the same time, these doors do have some potential drawbacks depending on your setup:

• Insulation: Some pet doors may not have the same level of insulation as your regular door, which can lead to drafts and higher energy bills. Make sure to choose a pet door with good insulation or consider installing an additional flap or cover to help with temperature control.
• Security: Depending on the type of pet door you choose, it could potentially be a security risk. Burglars may be able to use the pet door as an entry point into your home, so make sure to choose a secure option and consider adding extra security measures such as motion sensors or alarms.
• Aesthetics: Some pet doors can be unsightly and may not fit in with the overall aesthetic of your home. Consider choosing a pet door that matches the style and color of your exterior doors to maintain a cohesive look.

Alternatives

While we went over common door modification methods for a pet door earlier, there are alternatives here as well. Side-wall pet doors, for instance, are often preferred for households without any appropriate doors. Electronic doors are also a great option for pet owners who want to have more control over how and when their pets use the door.

Additionally, some pet doors come with customizable features such as different sized flaps or locking mechanisms. These can be useful for multi-pet households where you may need to restrict access for certain pets.

At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re here to help any client looking at modifying an entry door for pets. Contact us today to learn more about our selection of pet doors and installation services around Utah or Idaho!