Choosing Cat Flap Insulation

A cat flap can cause an air draught when left open. This is a common issue encountered by cat owners.

A draught excluder can minimise cold air entering the home, however a cat flap that is insulated can provide greater protection against the elements. Tomsgates provides a range of dog doors insulated and cat flaps that work for any type of installation including wall-mounted installations.

The Material

Insulation is among the most important characteristics of a cat-door. This is what keeps cold air out and warm air in. There are many ways that insulation can be made, but the most important is the material that the flap is constructed from.

A single flap won't make much difference in insulation for your home However, doors with dual or triple flaps are more efficient in insulation and will stop cold air entering the home. You can also buy draught-exclusion devices to cover the frame and reduce drafts. You should be aware that these products will not stop cold air from entering your home if you are also trying to open the door for your cat.

Fill in the area left by your cat flap using insulation such as styrofoam. This can help prevent cold air from entering your home, while also reducing the amount of noise that is produced when your cat uses their pet door. If you decide to do this, you should determine the size of the hole that your cat's flap made and select an appropriate filler to match the fabric.

An excellent choice for a cat flap that has high levels of insulation is the RANGER pet door made by Freedom Pet Pass. The door is constructed with an extremely thick, insulated flap that is designed to minimize conductive heat loss. It also has magnetic seals that block cold air or winds from passing through the flap. Its celluloid PVC frames are 3,000X more insulating than the aluminum used in the frames of the inferior pet doors.

Wind Resistance

When a cat door is opened and closed, it creates draft, which means that cold air can get into your home even when the flap is closed. Some manufacturers add draught-excluders the flap opening, which are brushes. But, if you're seeking a cold weather cat flap insulation, you'll need to ensure that the door can seal tightly when closed and that there are no gaps that cold air can enter.

It is possible to help your cat's door stay closed against the winds by using a sturdy magnetic seal. However, you should be aware of the overall structure of a pet door and its materials. The most effective doors for cold weather will be made from materials that are insulating, such as thick PVC flaps and a plastic frame that is able to stand up to temperatures of as low as -40° Celsius. This keeps warm air out and block cold air from entering.

It is also recommended to look for a double-flap design that can be able to withstand heat and cold and high winds. These are more expensive than single-flap models however they can save you money on energy costs over time. This is particularly important if live somewhere that has extreme summers and winters.

Review reviews prior to purchasing a cat flap installation cost flap that is cold-weather to see which models have the highest reviews and provide the most protection from the elements. Ideal Pet Products Designer Series Ruff Weather Pet Door is popular because it comes with a sturdy flap and an easy-to install and tamper-proof design. Endura Flap Double Flap Wall Mount Dog & cat flap fitting Door is a different option. Many customers have praised its ability to resist cold and wind without restricting the freedom of their cats.

The Magnetic Seal

In cold weather, a tightly shut cat flap is vital to reduce energy loss. This is the reason why the best cat flap insulation is made with an magnetic closure. The magnets keep the door shut even when your pet is inside. Additionally, certain models come with an external closing panel that you can use to lock your pet inside or out, if needed.

A high-quality cat flap must be able to withstand the wind and be secured with a magnetic seal. You don't want your cat's door to be blown open by wind in winter, because it will let cold air to enter your home and increase your heating bill. A high-quality cold-weather cat flap will have an extremely strong magnetic seal that can withstand winds up to 50 miles per hour and many of these models are also insulated to stop heat loss through the door.

The Security Boss pet door is one of the top cat flaps designed for cold weather available. The model is insulated inside the frame and in the door to provide maximum insulation. It also has an opening panel that snaps on so you can slide into when the weather is bad to keep your pets safe.

The RANGER pet gate made by Freedom Pet Pass is another great option. This door is insulated using thick celluloid PVC to help reduce heat loss through conduction and keep your house warm. The frame is also welded using automotive technology to ensure it is durable and sturdy for cold weather conditions.

The Baboni pet doors are a ideal option for those who live in colder weather. It is made from aluminum alloy that is of aerospace quality and metal steel, and is welded with laser welding technology that is used in the automotive industry. Its design makes it resistant to harsh weather and can be used in a wide variety of wall materials. Its double flaps offer insulation and energy efficiency. A tunnel kit can be fitted to the door for additional protection against extreme weather.

The Design

If you want to keep your home warm, and avoid drafts, then look for a cat-friendly door that has insulation features. It could be a dual-flap model or a frame constructed of aluminum which has lower thermal conduction than PVC or Plastic. Certain models come with brushes that help reduce energy loss and prevent drafts. Look for the words "insulation," "weatherproof seals," or "energy efficiency" in the product description to find a door with these features.

Modern cat doors, which are specifically designed for use in cold climates, have various insulation options. The Endura Flap pet door, for example, has a dual flap system and an enclosed frame that is designed to withstand the harshest weather conditions, helping stop drafts and loss of heat. It is also green, being made from an organic polyolefin polymer that is safe for pets and the planet.

Even if you have chosen an insulated cat flap you may still find that cold air can traverse the gap between the door frame and your wall or window. The flap can create draft when it is opened. Some manufacturers try to minimize this by placing a draught-excluder around the outside of a flap. However it is crucial to keep in mind that your cat needs to be able to open and shut the doors without difficulty so that they can move in and out as needed.

Installing a new pet door like Freedom Pet Pass' RANGER, that is designed specifically for colder weather, is the most effective solution. The RANGER pet doors come with an insulated, thicker upvc door panel replacement cat flap that cuts down on the conductive heating. It is also able to withstand extreme temperatures, including 40 degrees Celsius. This level of protection could be comparable to double-pane windows but at only a fraction of the cost.