How Do Pet Patio Doors Work in Sliding Glass Doors?

A pet door for a sliding glass door attaches to the door frame within the opening side of the door. It is generally five inches wider than the pet flap and the same height as the door opening.

  1. Temporary Door

    • A temporary pet door is usually spring loaded and does not require cutting of the sliding glass door frame. It locks with a pin lock that requires drilling a hole at the top of the door frame. The pet door can be screwed in if you prefer.

    Semi-permanent Door

    • A semi-permanent door must be fastened to the door frame with screws and a lock, using a hook and latch.

    Locking The Door

    • Patio pet doors are not designed to work with the existing sliding glass door locks. Most have a separate locking mechanism.

    Measure to Fit

    • Measure the door from the top to the bottom inside the track.

    Adjustable Height

    • Get a door with an adjustable height range that fits your door. If your door has a rail at the bottom that prevents you from fitting the pet door to the bottom of the track, that won't be a problem as long as the rail is less than half an inch high.

    Benefits

    • Your dog or cat can go in and out of the house at will by pushing open the flap. The flap can usually be secured when you want to keep the pet in or out.