You now have to decide whether you're going to install it yourself, or have someone else do it for you.
Proper installation is a prerequisite for the weather tight seal.
If you're handy, self-installationis the cheapest way to go.
But, if you're not, the extra cost of having your new pet door professionally installed may be well worth the convenience, as well as peace of mind knowing it's done properly and securely.
Door Mount Installation Tips
(Scroll down for wall mount installation tips.)
Note: Do not mount pet door to low on your door. This may damage the structural integrity of your door.
Decide the proper height to install your pet door (see Freedom Pet Pass sizing tips). Trace along the outside of the frame insert with the screw holes (see arrows on frame and trace around) to create the dimensions for the rough-cut opening.
Note: Before you make the rough-cut opening verify your trace lines are level to ensure a watertight seal with our flap system when the pet door is mounted.
Once the hole for the dog door is cut check for fit.
1. Imbed the dog door into the exterior dog doorframe (side without screw holes) with a high-grade acrylic silicone caulk. This provides for easy cleanup and a surface that accepts paint.
Note: Before you caulk, verify the security door or interior side of your dog door will face the interior of your home when installed.
2. With your home door mounted in place, caulk the outside flange of the exterior dog door frame and apply the pet door into your home door from the outside.
3. With help from an assistant apply the interior dog door frame (side with screw holes) with the screws provided to the inside of your door to secure your dog door to your door. Do not over tighten screws. Wipe away excess caulk.
Note: For a cleaner installation use a wood shim to remove excess caulk after it has cured. A wood shim less likely to cause scratches on the surface you are cleaning.
The PVC frame accepts plastic spray paints to color coordinate the color of the PVC frame to your door. For best results properly prepare the PVC frame to accept a plastics spray paint to prevent blemishes. Consult a paint expert if you are unsure as to priming PVC.
If you do not feel comfortable installing a self-framing door mount dog door we suggest asking a handy friend or hiring licensed contractor to install this custom application for you.
Wall Mount Installation Tips:
Note: There are devices available to help verify wall stud location and utilities (wires and plumbing) prior to cutting a hole in your wall in the desired location.
The wall must be framed out like an exterior door or window. This will create a box to install your dog door in.
Locate, cut out, and frame the dog door tunnel (as you would a door or window) that is properly sized for your new dog door. Build the frame in square and level for best results.
Note: Insetting the dog door in the tunnel from the outside will provide easier access to the security door feature from the inside.
Secure pet door in frame using door jam stock or similar material inside and out.
Finish the interior and exterior of the (tunnel) opening similar to your existing doors and windows for your custom application.
As with all fenestration applications correctly sealing out the elements on the exterior side of your home is very important.
If you do not feel comfortable installing a wall mount dog door including building a box and framing it to your home we suggest asking a handy friend or hiring licensed contractor to install this custom application for you.
