Choosing Cat Flap Insulation
upvc cat flap door panels Repair My Windows And Doors can create a draught if it's left open. This is a problem that many cat owners face.
A draught-exclusion device can help reduce the amount of cold air that enters the home, however a cat flap that is insulated can provide greater protection against the elements. Tomsgates has a range of cat flaps that are insulated and dog doors that are suitable for any type of installation, including wall installations.
The Material
One of the most important aspects of the cat door is its insulation. This is what keeps cold air out and warm air in. There are a variety of ways that insulation can be achieved however the most important factor is the material the flap is made from.
A single flap won't do much in terms of insulating your home, but doors that come with dual or triple flaps are much more insulated and will stop cold air entering the home. You can also purchase draught-excluders to wrap around the frame to 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.
Another option is to fill in the space left by your cat flap with some form of insulation, like styrofoam. This will prevent cold air from entering your home, while also decreasing the amount of noise generated when your cat is using their pet door. It is important to note that if you decide to do this, it is vital to measure the hole your cat's flap has created and choose the filler material that is compatible with the surrounding material.
An excellent choice for a cat flap that has high levels of insulation is the RANGER pet door made by Freedom Pet Pass. This door features a thick, insulated seal that reduces the loss of heat. It also has a strong magnetic seal that prevents cold air and wind from entering through the flap. Its celluloid PVC frame is 3,000X more in insulating properties than the aluminum used in the frames of other pet doors.
Wind Resistance
When a cat's flap is closed, cold air may still enter your home when the flap is open. Some manufacturers attempt to reduce the risk of this by incorporating what's known as draft excluders which are essentially brushes that can be placed around the flap opening. However, if you're seeking a cold weather cat flap insulation, you must ensure that your door will seal properly when it is shut and that there are no gaps where cold air can get in.
It is possible to help your cat's door stay closed against the winds by using a sturdy magnetic seal. However, you should also consider the overall construction of a pet-door and its materials. The best pet doors for cold weather will be made of materials that are insulation. They will have thick PVC flaps, as well as frames that can stand up to temperatures as low as 40 degrees Celsius. This keeps warm air out and stop cold air from entering.
It is also recommended to look for a double-flap design that can resist both cold and heat, as well as high winds. These are more expensive than the single-flap ones however they can help you save money on energy costs over time. This is particularly important if reside in a region that experiences severe winters and harsh summers.
Read reviews before purchasing a cat flap for cold weather to determine which models have the highest reviews and provide the most protection from the elements. The Ideal Pet Products Designer Series Ruff-Weather Pet Door is a favorite because it offers great insulation and a durable flap, and an easy-to-install, sturdy design that is tamper-proof. The Endura Flap Double Flap Wall Mount Dog & Cat Door is a different option, with numerous customers praising its ability to resist extreme cold and wind while still offering the ability for their cats to enter and exit easily.
The Magnetic Seal
In cold weather, a tightly sealed cat flap is essential to minimize energy loss. The best cat flap insulation has an opening with a magnetic closure. The magnets keep the door closed even when your pet is inside. Some models also have an outer panel that can be used to lock or unlock your pet's door when needed.
A strong magnetic seal is essential for winter however, a great cat flap should also be able to withstand winds. You don't want the cat door to be blown open by wind during winter, as it will let cold air into your home and increase your heating bill. A good cat flap for cold weather will have a strong magnetic seal that can withstand winds up to 50 miles per hour and a majority of these models are also insulated to reduce heat loss through the door.
The Security Boss pet door is one of the best cat flaps for colder weather available. It is insulated in both the door as well as the frame to give the best amount of insulation. It also has an opening panel that snaps on so you can slide into when the weather isn't great to keep your pets indoors.
Another option that is great is the RANGER pet door made by Freedom Pet Pass. This door is insulated using thick celluloid PVC to help reduce the loss of heat through conduction, and keep your home warm. The frame is welded using technology from the automotive industry to ensure it is strong and durable in cold weather.
The Baboni pet doors are another ideal option for those who live in colder weather. It is constructed of aerospace-grade aluminum alloy and metal and is welded with laser welding technology used in the automobile industry. Its design makes it resistant to harsh weather and can be incorporated into many wall materials. The double flaps create an air pocket that provides insulation and energy efficiency, and it has tunnel kits that you can add to the door for more protection during severe weather.
The Design

If you're looking to keep your home warm and prevent drafts from entering, look for a cat door that is insulated. This could be a dual flap system, or a thermally efficient frame constructed from a material like aluminum, which is less conductive to heat than PVC or plastic. Some models also come with brushes that prevent drafts and reduce energy loss. You can find doors with these features by looking for words like "insulation," weatherproof seals," and "energy efficiency" in the description of the product.
Many modern cat doors, specifically designed for cold climates, come with several insulation options. The Endura Flap pet door, for instance, comes with two flaps and an enclosed frame that is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, helping to stop drafts and loss of heat. It is also environmentally friendly, because it is made of a non-toxic polyolefin substance that is safe for your pet and the planet.
Even the flap is well-insulated it is possible that cold air still flows through the gap created between the frame of the door or window and the existing wall. This is because the flap itself causes an air draught when it is open. Some manufacturers attempt to minimize this by putting a draught-exclusion device on the outside of the flap. However it is essential to keep in mind that your cat needs to be able open and close the doors quickly to allow them to move in and out as needed.
An alternative that is more efficient is to install a new door that has been specifically designed for colder weather, such as the RANGER pet door from Freedom Pet Pass. The RANGER pet doors feature a thicker, insulated door that blocks the conductive heating. It is also able to stand up to extreme cold, and protect against temperatures of -40 ° Celsius and lower. This level of protection can be compared to double-pane windows, but at less cost.