How to Install a Doggie Door in an Aluminum Storm Door

Whether you're an experienced do-it-yourselfer or just a weekend warrior around the house, installing a doggie door inside an aluminum storm door is a manageable project that will make life easier for you and your dog. All you need are a few common household tools, and before you know it you'll have a new, easier way for your best friend to get in and out.

Things You'll Need

  • Self-framing pet door
  • Power drill with ½-inch bit
  • Jigsaw with bi-metal blade
  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Pencil
  • Measuring tape
  • All-weather caulking
  • Masking tape
  • Safety goggles
  • Work gloves
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find the correct size pet door for your dog. Doggie doors come in a variety of sizes, but a 10-by-15-inch pet door is appropriate for small dogs and cats, while a 14-by-23-inch door will accommodate most large dogs.

    • 2

      Purchase a self-framing doggie door. Although there are different styles of pet doors, a self-framing door will simplify installation in a wide range of aluminum storm doors, which may vary in thickness from 1/16 to 2 inches.

    • 3

      Remove the storm door from its hinges and lay it across a pair of saw horses or any other stable supports in a well-lit work area. While this is a project that can be completed with the door in place, taking it down will simplify the installation and justify the time taken to remove the door.

    • 4

      Determine the proper placement for the pet door by measuring the height of your dog. The bottom of the pet door should be level with the bottom of your pet's chest and abdomen. Mark the center of the storm door at the appropriate height for your pet and use a pencil and the template that came with your pet door to trace an outline on the storm door.

    • 5

      Drill a pilot hole in each corner of the outline, making sure the hole falls on the inside of the marked line. Insert the jigsaw blade into one of the pilot holes and cut the opening for the door along the template lines.

    • 6

      File away burs or sharp edges left by the saw. Once the surface is reasonably smooth and clean, lay a bead of all-weather caulk around the circumference of the opening on the front of the storm door. Insert the exterior half of the doggie door into the opening. Use masking tape to temporarily secure it in place.

    • 7

      Flip the storm door over and lay a second bead of caulk along the edge of the opening. Insert the interior half of the pet door and secure it using its included screws. Tighten until the pet door makes a tight seal around the aluminum storm door; be careful not to over-tighten or you may damage the frame.

    • 8

      Re-hang the storm door, remove the masking tape and clean any caulk that may have escaped around the edges of the frame. Once clean, introduce your dog to the new door and show him how it works.