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Hale Custom Dimension Pet Doors for Doors

Hale Custom Dimension Pet Doors for Doors

Regular price
$309.99
Sale price
$309.99
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Shipping calculated at checkout.
White
Black
Brushed Aluminum
Tan

  • Custom dimension pet doors, perfect for doors and French doors, fit surfaces 1 3/8" to 2" thick (thicker surfaces can order Hale Customer Dimension Pet Door for Walls)
  • Sturdy aluminum framing available in four colors and clear, flexible vinyl flap for easy pet use
  • Single or double flap options, both lined with magnets and fuzzy weather stripping for maximum energy efficiency
  • Fits pre-existing pet door openings
  • Built-to-order, shipping within 8-10 business days, with a 5-year limited warranty
  • Custom-fit is a door unit but is also perfect for easy installation in French Doors
  • We'll need more information to complete your order.  In your Order Confirmation email there is an Orange button with "Finish Your Order".  Click on it to enter to answer questions to finish your order. Thank you!

Custom Order | Ships in 1 Week | Non-Returnable

Product Details


Discover the Hale Custom Dimension Pet Doors for Doors – the ultimate solution for your pet's entry needs in your home. These high-quality, custom pet doors are specifically designed to fit doors and French doors, with a thickness range of 1 3/8" to 2". The pet doors come in four stunning aluminum frame colors: White, Arizona Beige, Bronze, or Brushed Aluminum, allowing you to seamlessly match your home's interior design.

The clear, flexible vinyl flap is easy for pets of all sizes to use and is available in single or double flap options. Both flaps are lined with magnets and fuzzy weather stripping for maximum energy efficiency, ensuring your home remains comfortable in moderate to severe climates.

Installation is a breeze with the Hale Custom Dimension Pet Doors. Our expert team will guide you through the process, from measuring the rough cut-out dimensions to selecting the appropriate flap type and frame color. Once your order is placed, we will provide detailed instructions for completing the customization process, ensuring a perfect fit for your door.

 

Features:

  • Clear, flexible flap designed for pets of all sizes and suitable for moderate to severe climates
  • Durable aluminum frame in White, Arizona Beige, Bronze, or Brushed Aluminum, customizable for interior frame color
  • Polar vinyl flap with weather stripping and magnets for optimal sealing and energy efficiency
  • Sturdy locking cover and steel pin lock, with side-loading locking cover customization option
  • Ideal for custom installations in French doors or filling pre-existing pet door openings
  • An optional rain cap that hooks to the top edge of the outside frame and helps protect against water intrusion can be added to your door by purchasing one a checkout with your Hale Pet Door (if choosing secondary exterior security cover and rain cap, you must choose a side loading security cover)

Ordering instructions for Hale Pet Doors:

Step One: The standard door thickness range for doors is from 1 3/8"- 2".  A dimension larger than 2" is considered a wall unit. If the door is thinner, the factory will include a build-out for as small as 3/4" in thickness. If this is the case, please call customer service at 800-826-2871 for details.

Step Two: Measure the opening horizontally and vertically. Multiply the two numbers together to get the total square inches. For example, if you've measured 10" x 12", the result is 120". Using this number, select the square inch range in the drop-down menu. Maximum Rough Cutout in one direction cannot exceed 23 3/8".

Please Note: The square inch ranges are only used for pricing purposes. The pet door is built to your exact dimensions and is not adjustable. Make sure that when multiplied, the height and width dimensions result in a number of square inches within the range that you specified in the drop-down menu.

Step Three: Choose whether you would like a single flap or double flap and select the frame color you would like (White, Arizona Beige, Bronze, or Brushed Aluminum).

Step Four: Your order confirmation will have an Orange "Finish Your Order" button.  Click on it to supply us with your exact cut out measurements.  Please note that the minimum rough-cut dimension is 7" x 7". Do not add any extra width or height when specifying the dimensions as a buffer. We have never had a properly specified custom dimension door not fit.  The flap dimension will be 2-1/16"  narrower and 1-3/8"  shorter than rough-cut.

Step Five: The locking cover slides down from the top of the pet door and secures with a steel deadbolt. If there is an obstruction that would prevent the cover from functioning properly, you can add a side-load option.

If you have a rough cut dimension but want to know the finished tip to tip measurements (total outside frame dimension), here is how it is calculated:

Rough Cut-Out Dimension Width + 1 1/4 = the Tip to Tip Measurement Width
Rough Cut-Out Dimension Height + 1 1/4 = the Tip to Tip Measurement Height

If you need a certain size flap dimension for your pets, here is how to calculate what the rough cut out needs to be:

Flap Width + 2 1/16 = the Rough Cut-Out Width
Flap Height + 1 = the Rough Cut-Out Height


Size Chart

Square Inch Range (width x height)
0-64
65-88
89-136
137-170
171-210
211-252
253-304
305-345
346-367
368-522
 ***Returns on custom dimension doors will only be allowed a 50% credit***

Not sure if your custom flap size will work for your pet? Here is a measurement guide to help you out. Please consider that the Flap Width will be 2 1/16" narrower than the Rough Cut-Out Width and Flap Height will be 1" shorter than the Rough Cut-Out Height.

Additional Information

Frame Material

Extruded Aluminum

Flap Material

Vinyl

Flap Colors

Clear

Flap Thickness

1/8

Warranty Period

5 years limited

Return Period

30 days

Locking Cover Material

Polycarbonate

Your Maximum Pet Size

Cats, Large Cats, Small Dogs, Medium Dogs, Large Dogs, X-Large Dogs

Climate Suitability

Severe-4 Season, Temperate-3 Season

Flap Design

Single, Double, One Part, Flexible, Thin Flap

Ability to Lock Flap

Separate Locking Cover-Loads from Side, Separate Locking Cover-Loads from Top

Can Be Installed In

Aluminum Door, French Doors, Hollow Core Door, Metal Door, Solid Core Door, Steel Door, Walls

Sealing Value

High, Average

Wind Resistance

High, Average

Installation Instructions

Installation icon Difficulty Difficult
Installation icon Steps 10
Installation icon Time Required 1 - 2 hours
Installation icon Sections 03
Installation icon Flags 05

Parts

  • Hale pet door frame
  • 1 Instructions and Warranty for Hale Pet Door
  • 1 Locking cover 5/8”
  • 5/8” #6 Phillips head screws
  • 4 2-1/4" (5,7cm) screws
  • 1 raincap (optional; must be purchased separately)

Tools

  • Blue tape
  • Drill
  • Jigsaw or Reciprocating Saw
  • Measuring Tape
  • 7/64” drill bit

Please read instructions & notes thoroughly before installation.

Metal Door Installation Instructions

Step 1 Pre-Installation Prep

  • Before installation, ensure that you have the proper size pet door for your cat or dog. If in doubt, it may be better to choose a larger size. It can be dangerous for your pet to use a too small pet door. A general rule is to install the pet door so that the height of the flap is at least as height as the top of your pet at the withers. If you have a short pet as well, be sure he won't have too high a 'step-over'.
  • Review the large illustration of the pet door at the end of the instructions and familiarize yourself with the various components.
  • Be sure you received all parts that should have been included.
  • The tools required may differ depending upon the type of door you are installing in. You will need a drill to start the rough cut out and also to drill the screw holes, A saw will be required to finish cutting out the rough opening and a Phillips head screwdriver for the screws.

Step 2 Decide Where to Install Door

  • Decide where to place your pet door. A good idea is to make sure that there are no knobs or other obstructions above the pet door that could interfere with the security cover.
  • Second, be sure that the rough opening will be at least four inches from the bottom and from the side of the 'people' door. This will maintain the integrity of the door. (This measurement may vary depending on the size and type of door being used.)
  • Use drop cloths on both sides of the door to ease cleanup.

Step 3 Makes Marks On Door

  • Mary the installation area using a level for accuracy. Use masking tape to record the placement before drilling.
  • Measure and mark all four sides before sawing. Use masking tape to mark the rectangle. Use the following dimensions to get the correct size rough opening for your size door:



















































  • Pet Door SizeRough Opening
    Width x Height
    Small7 3/8" x 9 3/8"
    Small Medium8 1/2" x 11 1/2"
    Medium10 1/2" x 14 1/2"
    Tall Medium10 1/2" x 18"
    Large13" x 18"
    Tall Large13" x 21 5/8"
    Tall Large Plus13" x 25 5/8"
    Extra Tall Large13" x 29 5/8"
    Extra Large16" x 21 5/8"
    Extra Large Plus16" x 25 5/8"
    Giant17 5/8" x 29 5/8"
  • Make sure the opening is square and level before drilling. This will help ensure that the pet door operates correctly.

Step 4 Cut Hole Out Of Door

cut away view of door bottom
cut away view of door bottom
where to drill door
saw hole into door
  • Drill out two corners diagonal from each other (top left and bottom right OR top right and bottom left) using a 5/16” steel bit. Use a chisel at the corners to start the hole. If you use the 5/16” drill bit, drill three holes close together and wiggle the bit until you have connected the three holes. This procedure will allow you enough room to fit a jig saw blade into the holes.
  • Drill your initial holes carefully and take care not to go outside your marked opening. You may wish to use a level on the drill bit to make sure that both the inside and outside edges of the rough opening are correctly aligned.
  • After the holes are connected, use a reciprocating saw with a 14 tooth/inch blade to cut out the opening along the lines you've marked.
  • Be careful that the saw blade does not dent the other side of the door while you cut. The Hale Pet Door™ “door” model is completely self-framing so there is no need to 'frame out' the inside of the door.

Optional Step Attach Rain Cap

”pet
”pet
“raincap
  • If you elected to use the rain cap for your petdoor installation, attach it to the outer frame as shown. It will simply hook onto the top of the outer frame

Step 5 Place Frame In Door

“drill
“drill
“frame
  • Separate the pet door frame into two halves and place the side with the locking cover to the inside. Remove the locking cover.
  • Before installing the pet door into the rough opening, loosen the screws holding the deadbolt lock. Back them out a few turns, otherwise they may protrude enough to keep the corner of the pet door off the people door leaving a gap.
  • Place the inside frame of the pet door into the opening in the door. Place the outside frame of the pet door into the other side of the door and let the pet door frame telescope together. Squeeze the two sides of the pet doors frame together tightly. You may hold them together with carpenter's clamps as you proceed.
  • Test fit the pet door prior to drilling any screw holes.

Step 6 Screw Door Into Place

“screw
  • Using the pre-drilled pilot holes in the pet door frame and a 7/64” drill bit, drill one hole through the inside edge of the outside frame at the bottom. Insert and loosely tighten one screw. Make sure the door is level and adjust if needed.
  • When door is level, tighten the inserted screw and repeat drilling and inserting the rest of the screws in the pet door frame. Also, retighten the screws that hold the pin bolt lock in place.

Step 7 Seal Gaps With Caulk

”fill
  • Once the pet door is installed you can fill any gaps or seal the edges with caulking if desired.
  • Do not caulk the bottom of the inside or outside frame. It is a good idea to place blue painter's tape around the three sides of the pet door that you will be caulking.
  • After you apply the caulking and smooth it, you can remove the tape for a clean edge and no mess on your people door.
  • See the instructions under “raised panel doors” for dealing with gaps and using caulking backer rod.

Step 8 Slide Locking Cover On

“slide
  • The Starboard® cover will slide easily into place in the built in frame and can be easily locked and unlocked with the positive action pin bolt lock.
  • The photo to the right shows the cover in place with the protective covering still on the Lexan cover (Lexan is now discontinued). Starboard covers do not need this covering as they are not prone to scratching.)

Step 10 Clean-Up Door

“clean
  • Remove the drop cloths and clean up the area. We recommend cleaning the frame and flaps of the pet door also. Use soap and water or glass cleaner without ammonia.

How to Adjust Magnets

You may also adjust the magnets in the frame if necessary. They can either be raised or lowered so the flaps seal but swing freely.

Adjust Upward

  • Adjust the magnets upward by twisting a flat headed screwdriver below the magnet between the magnet and the frame.

Adjust Downward

  • Adjust the magnets downward by tapping lightly with the handle of your screwdriver.

Note:

  • NEVER hit a magnet hard with a hammer as this may bend the legs of the magnet and cause it to eventually fall out of the door track.

Notes for Various Types of Doors

Raised Panel Doors

Two types of raised panel door are illustrated above. A true raised panel door will be built of solid wood, and the panels will be separate pieces of wood contained in the body of the door. This type of door is common on older homes, but in newer homes you are more likely to find doors whose surfaces have been molded to look like a raised panel door.

Carefully consider placement of your pet door before cutting the rough opening. Ideally, the pet door should be either centered on the door or centered on a panel. If the door is a true raised panel door, centering the pet door on the people door is not a good idea. Cutting out the vertical support will structurally weaken the door.

Once you have determined where to place the door, cut out the rough opening and install the pet door as described above. There should be gaps that need to be filled between the pet door and the door where the grooves from the raised panel are. Put blue masking tape on the door so that the bottom of the tape is even with the top of the pet door. Fill the gaps with "caulking backer rod". Make sure your filler does not come up to the edge of the pet door frame.

Fill the gap with caulk of an appropriate type and color. Smooth the caulk with a putty knife or a razor blade. Remove the blue tape carefully. Clean up and you are finished.

Cross Hatch Doors

To drill starter holes through a solid wood door, use a 7/8" paddle bit and drill almost all the way through the door. Go to the other side of the door and finish the hole. This will prevent splintering wood.

A crosshatch door, also called a farmhouse door, usually has a window in the upper half. The lower half is constructed very much like a raised panel door, but the panels are usually sunken in compared to the rest of the door. These doors are almost always solid wood. Be very careful when drilling your starter holes in wood. If you push too hard the wood may splinter.

Installation of the pet door is about the same as with any other door. The difficulty is filling in the gaps. Depending on how deep the gap is, there are several different ways to approach this. If the gap is not very deep, caulking backer rod and caulk will work nicely. If the gap is deep you may want to consider filling with pieces of wood. This will require a hacksaw, miter box, and careful measuring.

Hollow Core Doors

If you are installing in a hollow core door, don’t cut your rough opening with a reciprocating saw if you can avoid it. It tends to shake the door surface violently, sometimes separating it from the interior “honeycomb”. Use a circular saw and diamond blade. It makes a clean, easy cut.

Fiberglass Doors

Fiberglass doors can be cut with a reciprocating saw or a circular saw with a diamond blade but be sure to wear a good dust mask! You do not want to be inhaling fiberglass.

Wood Doors

Cut wood doors with a reciprocating saw. Do not try to use the circular saw. The diamond blade will simply scorch the wood, barely cutting it, and a wood blade will grab the wood and take off, which will be dangerously hard to control.

Steel Skin Doors

Steel skin doors are made of a foam core covered with thin steel skin. If the pet door you are installing is small, (medium or smaller), you can cut the rough opening with a diamond blade and clean up the corners with a reciprocating saw. If the pet door is larger than a medium, sink the diamond blade into the door in one spot on all four sides of the rough opening. This creates four grooves you can get a reciprocating saw blade into. Use a fine blade on the reciprocating saw. (18-tooth per inch at a minimum.)

Videos

Hale Pet Door Durability


FAQ

How do I measure square inch range?

Multiply the width by the height of the hole you are installing it in.

What is the thickness range for this door?

The thickness range is 1 9/32" to 2". Any dimension larger than 2" would be the Hale Custom Wall Mount. Any dimension smaller (up to 3/4") is possible, but you would need to call customer service (800-826-2871)

My French door is a single pane. What now?

We would recommend the Hale Through the Glass Doorinstead.

I want a French door doggie door, but my door has dual pane glass - what should I do?

You can have your glass replaced with a Pet Door GuysInsulated Glass Unit. The new glass will not have grids.

Can I return this?

Because these pet doors are built custom to your specification, returns will be allowed a 50% credit toward the purchase of a different Hale Pet Door. The PetDoors.com return policy applies in respect to time limits only.

How do I get a Hale replacement flap for my French door pet door?

Since you have custom dimension what we would need to know is the tip-to-tip measurement of the outside frame.

What is the minimum rough cut out dimension?

7"w x 7"h

Does this come with a locking cover?

Yes, all door units come with a 1/4" thick high density polyethylene Starboard closing cover.

What are the total outside dimensions of the door?

To figure out how large the outside frame is you take the Rough Cut Out Dimension + 1 1/4" = Tip to Tip Measurement

How do I figure out the flap dimensions?

To figure out what the final flap dimension for your pet would be you take the Rough Cut Out Width - 2 1/16" = Flap Width Rough Cut Out Height -1 3/8" = Flap Height

Do I have to use a custom door?

The dog doors for sale off the shelf are often not the correct dimensions to fit into the door once the glass pane is removed. This is why many customers have to go custom. but it you can make a standard pet door fit you're one of the very lucky ones.

Is this good for weather resistance?

The Hale is great for insulation if you are using it for an exterior door with a dog door application. You can get the double flap for even better wind and weather protection, keeping your home energy efficient during the cold.

Dimensions of doors?

We do have to ask for the exact rough cut out (hole you would be left with to install the pet door). This can be the measurement of the width and height of a cut out in a regular door, or the opening you are left with once you take out the glass.

Is this an entire French door with dog door built in?

No, we don't carry French doors for patio doors with a doggie door built in. So you would have to have an existing French door or purchase a new one separately.

Can this pet door be installed in double French doors?

If you want to have double French doors with doggie door, it is possible. Most homeowners choose the non-operational or rarely used side to install the pet door. All other topics addressed on this page apply to the installation.

Is this the entire door?

This is not the entire French door with dog door built in, it is only the pet door. This includes French patio panels. We don't sell the entire French doors with built in dog door, just the custom-sized dog door. You will need to have an existing and prehung door for this installation.

What is the largest French door with pet door?

You will use your existing French door and install a custom made pet door. The largest size will depend on how many glass panels you remove. The largest possible size is 522 square inches.

We have double French doors - should we install this on the one we use or the stationary one?

We recommend that you place it on the stationary side. If you need to put a step or ramp on either side it will not interfere with you using the operational French door.

Can I buy French doors for patio with a doggie door built in?

In traditional French Doors with individual panes of glass, you can purchase a Custom Dimension Dog door for French door and install it into your existing door.

Is this my only option for a French door insert?

Depending on the type of glass you have, you could replace the entire unit with a glass piece that had a pet door already installed into it. This would be the best dog door in glass French door option if you did have individual panes of glass.

Do I have to install these dog doors for glass French doors in just a French door or can I put them in sliders?

We have the pet door guys through glass units if you find that you want to put it through a French door and not actually as dog door for glass French door applications. This would involve removing your existing glass and replacing it with a piece that had a doggie door for French door installed into it for you.

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping is calculated at checkout.

Warranty

Warranty: Lifetime Frame Warranty / 10-Year Parts Warranty Including Flaps

Duration: Lifetime for frame and 10 years for parts including flaps.

Coverage:

  • Hale Pet Door products and components are guaranteed to be free from defects in materials and workmanship from the date of purchase.

  • Flaps are made from the best vinyl imported from France using Hale's custom chemical recipe.

  • Coverage percentages for parts (excluding frame) decreases by 20% every two years over a ten year period. 

  • Returns within 30 days due to dissatisfaction results in a full refund, but if the product is damaged upon return, only 50% credit is provided.

Exclusions:

  • Warranty does not include shipping to Hale Pet Door or field service labor.

  • Glass Breakage: 50% replacement cost in the first year if the glass breaks. No warranty on glass after the first year. Excludes in-glass models' glass.

  • Only 50% credit is provided towards the cost of a replacement Hale Pet Door if damaged due to no fault of Hale Pet Door (e.g., miscutting, mismeasuring) within 30 days of purchase.

View the full Hale Pet Doors warranty policy. 



Customer Reviews

Hale Custom Dimension Pet Doors for Doors

White / Single Flap / 0-64 Edit

Hale Custom Dimension Pet Doors for Doors

Size Chart

Square Inch Range (width x height)
0-64
65-88
89-136
137-170
171-210
211-252
253-304
305-345
346-367
368-522
 ***Returns on custom dimension doors will only be allowed a 50% credit***

Not sure if your custom flap size will work for your pet? Here is a measurement guide to help you out. Please consider that the Flap Width will be 2 1/16" narrower than the Rough Cut-Out Width and Flap Height will be 1" shorter than the Rough Cut-Out Height.

Frame Material

Extruded Aluminum

Flap Material

Vinyl

Flap Colors

Clear

Flap Thickness

1/8

Warranty Period

5 years limited

Return Period

30 days

Locking Cover Material

Polycarbonate

Your Maximum Pet Size

Cats, Large Cats, Small Dogs, Medium Dogs, Large Dogs, X-Large Dogs

Climate Suitability

Severe-4 Season, Temperate-3 Season

Flap Design

Single, Double, One Part, Flexible, Thin Flap

Ability to Lock Flap

Separate Locking Cover-Loads from Side, Separate Locking Cover-Loads from Top

Can Be Installed In

Aluminum Door, French Doors, Hollow Core Door, Metal Door, Solid Core Door, Steel Door, Walls

Sealing Value

High, Average

Wind Resistance

High, Average

Installation Instructions

Installation icon Difficulty Difficult
Installation icon Steps 10
Installation icon Time Required 1 - 2 hours
Installation icon Sections 03
Installation icon Flags 05

Parts

  • Hale pet door frame
  • 1 Instructions and Warranty for Hale Pet Door
  • 1 Locking cover 5/8”
  • 5/8” #6 Phillips head screws
  • 4 2-1/4" (5,7cm) screws
  • 1 raincap (optional; must be purchased separately)

Tools

  • Blue tape
  • Drill
  • Jigsaw or Reciprocating Saw
  • Measuring Tape
  • 7/64” drill bit

Please read instructions & notes thoroughly before installation.

Metal Door Installation Instructions

Step 1 Pre-Installation Prep

  • Before installation, ensure that you have the proper size pet door for your cat or dog. If in doubt, it may be better to choose a larger size. It can be dangerous for your pet to use a too small pet door. A general rule is to install the pet door so that the height of the flap is at least as height as the top of your pet at the withers. If you have a short pet as well, be sure he won't have too high a 'step-over'.
  • Review the large illustration of the pet door at the end of the instructions and familiarize yourself with the various components.
  • Be sure you received all parts that should have been included.
  • The tools required may differ depending upon the type of door you are installing in. You will need a drill to start the rough cut out and also to drill the screw holes, A saw will be required to finish cutting out the rough opening and a Phillips head screwdriver for the screws.

Step 2 Decide Where to Install Door

  • Decide where to place your pet door. A good idea is to make sure that there are no knobs or other obstructions above the pet door that could interfere with the security cover.
  • Second, be sure that the rough opening will be at least four inches from the bottom and from the side of the 'people' door. This will maintain the integrity of the door. (This measurement may vary depending on the size and type of door being used.)
  • Use drop cloths on both sides of the door to ease cleanup.

Step 3 Makes Marks On Door

  • Mary the installation area using a level for accuracy. Use masking tape to record the placement before drilling.
  • Measure and mark all four sides before sawing. Use masking tape to mark the rectangle. Use the following dimensions to get the correct size rough opening for your size door:



















































  • Pet Door SizeRough Opening
    Width x Height
    Small7 3/8" x 9 3/8"
    Small Medium8 1/2" x 11 1/2"
    Medium10 1/2" x 14 1/2"
    Tall Medium10 1/2" x 18"
    Large13" x 18"
    Tall Large13" x 21 5/8"
    Tall Large Plus13" x 25 5/8"
    Extra Tall Large13" x 29 5/8"
    Extra Large16" x 21 5/8"
    Extra Large Plus16" x 25 5/8"
    Giant17 5/8" x 29 5/8"
  • Make sure the opening is square and level before drilling. This will help ensure that the pet door operates correctly.

Step 4 Cut Hole Out Of Door

cut away view of door bottom
cut away view of door bottom
where to drill door
saw hole into door
  • Drill out two corners diagonal from each other (top left and bottom right OR top right and bottom left) using a 5/16” steel bit. Use a chisel at the corners to start the hole. If you use the 5/16” drill bit, drill three holes close together and wiggle the bit until you have connected the three holes. This procedure will allow you enough room to fit a jig saw blade into the holes.
  • Drill your initial holes carefully and take care not to go outside your marked opening. You may wish to use a level on the drill bit to make sure that both the inside and outside edges of the rough opening are correctly aligned.
  • After the holes are connected, use a reciprocating saw with a 14 tooth/inch blade to cut out the opening along the lines you've marked.
  • Be careful that the saw blade does not dent the other side of the door while you cut. The Hale Pet Door™ “door” model is completely self-framing so there is no need to 'frame out' the inside of the door.

Optional Step Attach Rain Cap

”pet
”pet
“raincap
  • If you elected to use the rain cap for your petdoor installation, attach it to the outer frame as shown. It will simply hook onto the top of the outer frame

Step 5 Place Frame In Door

“drill
“drill
“frame
  • Separate the pet door frame into two halves and place the side with the locking cover to the inside. Remove the locking cover.
  • Before installing the pet door into the rough opening, loosen the screws holding the deadbolt lock. Back them out a few turns, otherwise they may protrude enough to keep the corner of the pet door off the people door leaving a gap.
  • Place the inside frame of the pet door into the opening in the door. Place the outside frame of the pet door into the other side of the door and let the pet door frame telescope together. Squeeze the two sides of the pet doors frame together tightly. You may hold them together with carpenter's clamps as you proceed.
  • Test fit the pet door prior to drilling any screw holes.

Step 6 Screw Door Into Place

“screw
  • Using the pre-drilled pilot holes in the pet door frame and a 7/64” drill bit, drill one hole through the inside edge of the outside frame at the bottom. Insert and loosely tighten one screw. Make sure the door is level and adjust if needed.
  • When door is level, tighten the inserted screw and repeat drilling and inserting the rest of the screws in the pet door frame. Also, retighten the screws that hold the pin bolt lock in place.

Step 7 Seal Gaps With Caulk

”fill
  • Once the pet door is installed you can fill any gaps or seal the edges with caulking if desired.
  • Do not caulk the bottom of the inside or outside frame. It is a good idea to place blue painter's tape around the three sides of the pet door that you will be caulking.
  • After you apply the caulking and smooth it, you can remove the tape for a clean edge and no mess on your people door.
  • See the instructions under “raised panel doors” for dealing with gaps and using caulking backer rod.

Step 8 Slide Locking Cover On

“slide
  • The Starboard® cover will slide easily into place in the built in frame and can be easily locked and unlocked with the positive action pin bolt lock.
  • The photo to the right shows the cover in place with the protective covering still on the Lexan cover (Lexan is now discontinued). Starboard covers do not need this covering as they are not prone to scratching.)

Step 10 Clean-Up Door

“clean
  • Remove the drop cloths and clean up the area. We recommend cleaning the frame and flaps of the pet door also. Use soap and water or glass cleaner without ammonia.

How to Adjust Magnets

You may also adjust the magnets in the frame if necessary. They can either be raised or lowered so the flaps seal but swing freely.

Adjust Upward

  • Adjust the magnets upward by twisting a flat headed screwdriver below the magnet between the magnet and the frame.

Adjust Downward

  • Adjust the magnets downward by tapping lightly with the handle of your screwdriver.

Note:

  • NEVER hit a magnet hard with a hammer as this may bend the legs of the magnet and cause it to eventually fall out of the door track.

Notes for Various Types of Doors

Raised Panel Doors

Two types of raised panel door are illustrated above. A true raised panel door will be built of solid wood, and the panels will be separate pieces of wood contained in the body of the door. This type of door is common on older homes, but in newer homes you are more likely to find doors whose surfaces have been molded to look like a raised panel door.

Carefully consider placement of your pet door before cutting the rough opening. Ideally, the pet door should be either centered on the door or centered on a panel. If the door is a true raised panel door, centering the pet door on the people door is not a good idea. Cutting out the vertical support will structurally weaken the door.

Once you have determined where to place the door, cut out the rough opening and install the pet door as described above. There should be gaps that need to be filled between the pet door and the door where the grooves from the raised panel are. Put blue masking tape on the door so that the bottom of the tape is even with the top of the pet door. Fill the gaps with "caulking backer rod". Make sure your filler does not come up to the edge of the pet door frame.

Fill the gap with caulk of an appropriate type and color. Smooth the caulk with a putty knife or a razor blade. Remove the blue tape carefully. Clean up and you are finished.

Cross Hatch Doors

To drill starter holes through a solid wood door, use a 7/8" paddle bit and drill almost all the way through the door. Go to the other side of the door and finish the hole. This will prevent splintering wood.

A crosshatch door, also called a farmhouse door, usually has a window in the upper half. The lower half is constructed very much like a raised panel door, but the panels are usually sunken in compared to the rest of the door. These doors are almost always solid wood. Be very careful when drilling your starter holes in wood. If you push too hard the wood may splinter.

Installation of the pet door is about the same as with any other door. The difficulty is filling in the gaps. Depending on how deep the gap is, there are several different ways to approach this. If the gap is not very deep, caulking backer rod and caulk will work nicely. If the gap is deep you may want to consider filling with pieces of wood. This will require a hacksaw, miter box, and careful measuring.

Hollow Core Doors

If you are installing in a hollow core door, don’t cut your rough opening with a reciprocating saw if you can avoid it. It tends to shake the door surface violently, sometimes separating it from the interior “honeycomb”. Use a circular saw and diamond blade. It makes a clean, easy cut.

Fiberglass Doors

Fiberglass doors can be cut with a reciprocating saw or a circular saw with a diamond blade but be sure to wear a good dust mask! You do not want to be inhaling fiberglass.

Wood Doors

Cut wood doors with a reciprocating saw. Do not try to use the circular saw. The diamond blade will simply scorch the wood, barely cutting it, and a wood blade will grab the wood and take off, which will be dangerously hard to control.

Steel Skin Doors

Steel skin doors are made of a foam core covered with thin steel skin. If the pet door you are installing is small, (medium or smaller), you can cut the rough opening with a diamond blade and clean up the corners with a reciprocating saw. If the pet door is larger than a medium, sink the diamond blade into the door in one spot on all four sides of the rough opening. This creates four grooves you can get a reciprocating saw blade into. Use a fine blade on the reciprocating saw. (18-tooth per inch at a minimum.)

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FAQ

How do I measure square inch range?

Multiply the width by the height of the hole you are installing it in.

What is the thickness range for this door?

The thickness range is 1 9/32" to 2". Any dimension larger than 2" would be the Hale Custom Wall Mount. Any dimension smaller (up to 3/4") is possible, but you would need to call customer service (800-826-2871)

My French door is a single pane. What now?

We would recommend the Hale Through the Glass Doorinstead.

I want a French door doggie door, but my door has dual pane glass - what should I do?

You can have your glass replaced with a Pet Door GuysInsulated Glass Unit. The new glass will not have grids.

Can I return this?

Because these pet doors are built custom to your specification, returns will be allowed a 50% credit toward the purchase of a different Hale Pet Door. The PetDoors.com return policy applies in respect to time limits only.

How do I get a Hale replacement flap for my French door pet door?

Since you have custom dimension what we would need to know is the tip-to-tip measurement of the outside frame.

What is the minimum rough cut out dimension?

7"w x 7"h

Does this come with a locking cover?

Yes, all door units come with a 1/4" thick high density polyethylene Starboard closing cover.

What are the total outside dimensions of the door?

To figure out how large the outside frame is you take the Rough Cut Out Dimension + 1 1/4" = Tip to Tip Measurement

How do I figure out the flap dimensions?

To figure out what the final flap dimension for your pet would be you take the Rough Cut Out Width - 2 1/16" = Flap Width Rough Cut Out Height -1 3/8" = Flap Height

Do I have to use a custom door?

The dog doors for sale off the shelf are often not the correct dimensions to fit into the door once the glass pane is removed. This is why many customers have to go custom. but it you can make a standard pet door fit you're one of the very lucky ones.

Is this good for weather resistance?

The Hale is great for insulation if you are using it for an exterior door with a dog door application. You can get the double flap for even better wind and weather protection, keeping your home energy efficient during the cold.

Dimensions of doors?

We do have to ask for the exact rough cut out (hole you would be left with to install the pet door). This can be the measurement of the width and height of a cut out in a regular door, or the opening you are left with once you take out the glass.

Is this an entire French door with dog door built in?

No, we don't carry French doors for patio doors with a doggie door built in. So you would have to have an existing French door or purchase a new one separately.

Can this pet door be installed in double French doors?

If you want to have double French doors with doggie door, it is possible. Most homeowners choose the non-operational or rarely used side to install the pet door. All other topics addressed on this page apply to the installation.

Is this the entire door?

This is not the entire French door with dog door built in, it is only the pet door. This includes French patio panels. We don't sell the entire French doors with built in dog door, just the custom-sized dog door. You will need to have an existing and prehung door for this installation.

What is the largest French door with pet door?

You will use your existing French door and install a custom made pet door. The largest size will depend on how many glass panels you remove. The largest possible size is 522 square inches.

We have double French doors - should we install this on the one we use or the stationary one?

We recommend that you place it on the stationary side. If you need to put a step or ramp on either side it will not interfere with you using the operational French door.

Can I buy French doors for patio with a doggie door built in?

In traditional French Doors with individual panes of glass, you can purchase a Custom Dimension Dog door for French door and install it into your existing door.

Is this my only option for a French door insert?

Depending on the type of glass you have, you could replace the entire unit with a glass piece that had a pet door already installed into it. This would be the best dog door in glass French door option if you did have individual panes of glass.

Do I have to install these dog doors for glass French doors in just a French door or can I put them in sliders?

We have the pet door guys through glass units if you find that you want to put it through a French door and not actually as dog door for glass French door applications. This would involve removing your existing glass and replacing it with a piece that had a doggie door for French door installed into it for you.

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping is calculated at checkout.

Warranty

Warranty: Lifetime Frame Warranty / 10-Year Parts Warranty Including Flaps

Duration: Lifetime for frame and 10 years for parts including flaps.

Coverage:

  • Hale Pet Door products and components are guaranteed to be free from defects in materials and workmanship from the date of purchase.

  • Flaps are made from the best vinyl imported from France using Hale's custom chemical recipe.

  • Coverage percentages for parts (excluding frame) decreases by 20% every two years over a ten year period. 

  • Returns within 30 days due to dissatisfaction results in a full refund, but if the product is damaged upon return, only 50% credit is provided.

Exclusions:

  • Warranty does not include shipping to Hale Pet Door or field service labor.

  • Glass Breakage: 50% replacement cost in the first year if the glass breaks. No warranty on glass after the first year. Excludes in-glass models' glass.

  • Only 50% credit is provided towards the cost of a replacement Hale Pet Door if damaged due to no fault of Hale Pet Door (e.g., miscutting, mismeasuring) within 30 days of purchase.

View the full Hale Pet Doors warranty policy.