Hale Custom Pet Doors for French Doors
- The custom French door pet door will replace a pane(s) of glass in your French Door (for dual-pane glass we have other options)
- Available in four attractive aluminum frame colors or a stylish and functional finish
- Clear, flexible flaps available in single or double designs for insulation needs, easy for pets of all sizes
- Includes a secure locking cover and a pin lock for excellent security and peace of mind
- 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 2-4 Weeks | Non-Returnable
Product Details
Sizing & Fit
Installation Guide
FAQs
ReviewsProduct Details
The Hale Pet Doors for French Doors offer an elegant solution for pet owners looking to provide their furry friends with the freedom to come and go as they please. Designed specifically to replace a pane of glass in your French door, this custom pet door is both stylish and functional. The sturdy aluminum frame is available in four colors, seamlessly blending with your existing door's design.
The clear, flexible flaps make it easy for pets of all sizes to use, and you can choose between single or double flaps, depending on your insulation needs. Your pet's comfort is important, and the Hale Pet Door ensures a convenient and cozy experience for them, regardless of the climate or weather conditions.
Safety is a priority, and the Hale Pet Door comes with a matching locking cover that incorporates a pin lock for excellent security. You can have peace of mind knowing that your home is protected while still providing your pet with the access they need.
As a built-to-order product, the Hale Pet Doors for French Doors are tailored to your specific dimensions, ensuring a perfect fit for your unique door. Allow 5-7 business days for shipping as your pet door is carefully crafted to meet your needs.
One important note: before making a purchase, please ensure that your French door has separate panes of glass, as this pet door is not suitable for doors with a single sheet of glass and wood facing. Measuring your pet and the available opening is crucial to guarantee the correct fit and overall satisfaction with your new pet door.
How to Order Your Hale Pet Door for French Doors:
- First, be sure these really are separate panes of glass. Some French doors are a large sheet of glass with wood facing to look like separate panes. That is a very different situation and not the best option for French doors with doggie doors.
- Check that the resulting pet door will be large enough for your pet. You'll lose about two inches (actually, you lose 2 1/16" in width and 1 3/8" in height) in both dimensions. So, for example, if you measure that the opening available to you after removing the pane of glass is 8"w x 10"h, you end up with a flap dimension of about 6"w x 8"h. If necessary, you may need to remove more than one pane of glass. You can cut down into the wooden crosspiece to make the flap lower if necessary. Remember to actually measure your pet. Be sure you don't compromise the strength of the door, however. See below for more about measurements.
- After you measure the opening horizontally and vertically, multiply the two numbers together to get a total square inches. So, if you've measured 10"x12" the result would be 120 square inches. Using this number you can see the range that you need to choose. The minimum rough-cut dimension is 7"x7".
- Please note that the square inch ranges are only used for pricing purposes. The French door dog door is built to your exact dimensions; it is not adjustable. Please be sure that the height dimension and the width dimension, when multiplied, result in a number of square inches in the range that you specified.
- In addition to your dimensions, the factory wants to know if your installation is for a French door or not. So, when you enter your dimensions, please note that as well. For example, you might type: "10"w x 12"h for French door".
- The standard door thickness range is from 1 3/8" to 2". A dimension larger than 2" would normally be considered a wall unit. It can be factory modified to collapse to as small as ¾ gap (call customer service if you need this change 800-826-2871).
- Do not add 'a little extra' for safety. The factory already does this. We've never had a properly-specified custom dimension door not fit.
- Normally the locking cover slides straight down from the top and is secured by a steel deadbolt. If there is an obstruction above, you can add a 'side-load option' at no extra charge.
- All Hale pet doors come standard with "polar" flaps--a vinyl that is more flexible in cold weather than "regular" vinyl. You can order Hale Replacement flaps if you need them. Very flexible 'training' flaps may be ordered for pets who are initially resistant to pushing through the regular flaps.
- Please provide accurate measurements. This custom made pet door is returnable for a 50% credit toward the purchase of another Hale Pet Door.
- Maximum Rough Cutout in one direction cannot exceed 23 3/8".
Features:
- Designed to replace individual panes of glass in traditional French doors
- Suitable for various pet sizes, from cats to extra-large dogs, ensuring convenience for all pet lovers
- Suitable for severe 4-season or temperate 3-season climates
- High-quality materials such as extruded aluminum frame and durable vinyl flaps for long-lasting use
- 5-year limited warranty so that you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your investment is protected
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*** |
If you have a rough cut out dimension but want to know the finished tip to tip (total outside frame dimension) here is how that 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 would need to be:
Flap Width + 2-1/16" = the Rough Cut Out Width
Flap Height + 1-3/8" = Rough Cut Out Height
Installation Instructions
Difficulty
Advanced
Steps
08
Time Required
3 - 4 hours
Sections
03
Flags
02
Parts
- Instructions
- Warranty
- 7/64” drill bit
- Hale Pet Door™ Door Model
- Starboard Security Cover
- 5/8” #6 Phillips Head Screws
Tools
- Razor knife
- 2 Putty Knives
- Chisel
- Flat Bar
- Drill
- Reciprocating saw
- Level
- Drop cloths
- Circular saw with diamond blade
- Finishing nail
- Hammer
Please read instructions & notes thoroughly before installation. It is important to note however, that the product warranty may be affected if returns have been modified in any way other than specified by these instructions.
F-1 French Door Basic Installation
Step 1 Identify Molding
- First, find the removable molding that is holding the glass in the French door.
- If the molding has been painted over or you can’t find staples or nails, try sliding a putty knife under the molding.
Step 2 Cut Molding
- After identifying the removable molding, with care, use a razor knife to cut along the back edge of the molding to free it from the door.
Step 3 Remove Molding
- Loosen the molding with a putty knife. To remove the molding, slide one putty knife under the molding.
- Slide the other putty knife on top of the first one. Slide a standard screwdriver, chisel, or flat bar between the putty knives and twist carefully.
Step 4 Remove Glass
- After removing all the necessary molding, make sure all the nails or staples have been removed and push the glass out carefully. The glass is usually glued in place, but with patience and care, it can usually be removed without breaking.
- Loosen it from the outside by going around it with a putty knife or other appropriate tool. Then use a putty knife, chisel, or screwdriver to pry the glass out. Save the glass and molding for re-installation later if desired.
- It is a good idea to wrap the removed pane of glass in cardboard and tape it closed.
- Tape the removed molding to the cardboard and label the cardboard (i..e. glass from dining room French door).
Step 5 Separate the Pet Door
- Separate the pet door into its two halves.
- Place the inner frame of the pet door (the side with the security cover tracks) in the rough opening from the inside of the house.
- Install the outer frame on the outside of the door to sleeve together to the inner frame.
- You should be able to snap the two frames together.
Step 6 (Optional) Rain Cap
- If you choose to use the rain cap for your door installation, attach it to the outer frame as shown in the graphic and picture to the left.
- Then snap the frames together as stated previously.
Step 7 Attach the Frames
- Using the pre-drilled pilot holes in the pet door frame and a 7/64" drill bit, drill one hole into the French door with a 7/64" drill bit 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.
Step 8 Security Cover
- The King Starboard® security 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.
- Remove the drop cloths and clean up the area.
Difficulty
Advanced
Steps
08
Time Required
3 - 4 hours
Sections
03
Flags
02
Parts
- Instructions
- Warranty
- Hale Pet Door™ Door Model
- Starboard Security Cover
- 5/8” #6 Phillips Head Screws
Tools
- Razor knife
- 2 Putty Knives
- Chisel
- Flat Bar
- Drill
- 7/64” drill bit
- Reciprocating saw
- Level
- Drop cloths
- Circular saw with diamond blade
- Finishing nail
- Hammer
Please read instructions & notes thoroughly before installation. It is important to note however, that the product warranty may be affected if returns have been modified in any way other than specified by these instructions.
F-2 French Door Basic Installation
Step 1 Identify Molding
- First, find the removable molding that is holding the glass in the French door.
- If the molding has been painted over or you can’t find staples or nails, try sliding a putty knife under the molding.
Step 2 Cut Molding
- After identifying the removable molding, with care, use a razor knife to cut along the back edge of the molding to free it from the door.
Step 3 Remove Molding
- Loosen the molding with a putty knife. To remove the molding, slide one putty knife under the molding.
- Slide the other putty knife on top of the first one. Slide a standard screwdriver, chisel, or flat bar between the putty knives and twist carefully.
Step 4 Mark Outline
- Mark the body of the French door where you will be cutting.
Step 5 Drill the Corners
- Drill out the corners first and then finish cutting out the rough opening.
- If you ordered one of our standard pet door sizes, use the chart below to find the measurements of the rough opening required for your door.
- If you ordered a custom size pet door, you should have supplied us with the rough opening measurements. Use those same numbers when marking and cutting.
Step 6 Separate the Pet Door
- Separate the pet door into its two halves.
- Place the inner frame of the pet door (the side with the security cover tracks) in the rough opening from the inside of the house.
- Install the outer frame on the outside of the door to sleeve together to the inner frame. You should be able to snap the two frames together.
Step 6 (Optional) Rain Cap
- If you choose to use the rain cap for your door installation, attach it to the outer frame as shown in the graphic and picture to the left.
- Then snap the frames together as stated previously.
Step 7 Attach the Frames
- Using the pre-drilled pilot holes in the pet door frame and a 7/64" drill bit, drill one hole into the French door with a 7/64" drill bit 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.
Step 8 Security Cover
- The King Starboard® security 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.
- Remove the drop cloths and clean up the area.
Difficulty
Advanced
Steps
08
Time Required
3 - 4 hours
Sections
03
Flags
02
Parts
- Instructions
- Warranty
- Hale Pet Door™ Door Model
- Starboard Security Cover
- 5/8” #6 Phillips Head Screws
Tools
- Razor knife
- 2 Putty Knives
- Chisel
- Flat Bar
- Drill
- 7/64” drill bit
- Reciprocating saw
- Level
- Drop cloths
- Circular saw with diamond blade
- Finishing nail
- Hammer
Please read instructions & notes thoroughly before installation. It is important to note however, that the product warranty may be affected if returns have been modified in any way other than specified by these instructions.
F-3 French Door Basic Installation
Step 1 Identify Molding
- First, find the removable molding that is holding the glass in the French door.
- If the molding has been painted over or you can’t find staples or nails, try sliding a putty knife under the molding.
Step 2 Cut Molding
- After identifying the removable molding, with care, use a razor knife to cut along the back edge of the molding to free it from the door.
- If you remove more than one pane of glass, cut out the divider between the panes. To do this, cut almost all the way through from one side. Then bring the saw around from the other side to prevent breaking the divider.
Step 3 Remove Molding
- Loosen the molding with a putty knife. To remove the molding, slide one putty knife under the molding.
- Slide the other putty knife on top of the first one. Slide a standard screwdriver, chisel, or flat bar between the putty knives and twist carefully.
Step 4 Mark the Cutout
- If you will be cutting into the body of the French door, mark the door where you will be cutting and cut out the rough opening.
Step 5 Cut the Acrylic
- You should now have your square rough opening cut to size as well as the extra hole above or to the side of the rough opening for your piece of acrylic or Plexiglas.
- Place the acrylic into the opening and mark where you will need to cut it.
- Make sure all cutting and fitting is done before removing the paper as Plexiglas can scratch easily.
- Cut the acrylic and place it in the French door. Once you have achieved a good fit, carefully remove the paper and put the acrylic back into place.
Step 6 Separate the Pet Door
- Separate the pet door into its two halves. Put the pet door in place.
- Place the inner frame of the pet door (the side with the security cover tracks) in the rough opening from the inside of the house.
- Install the outer frame on the outside of the door to sleeve together to the inner frame. You should be able to snap the two frames.
Step 6 (Optional) Rain Cap
- If you choose to use the rain cap for your door installation, attach it to the outer frame as shown in the graphic and picture to the left.
- Then snap the frames together as stated previously.
Step 7 Attach the Frames
- 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 to hold it in place. Make sure the door is level and adjust if needed.
- Measure carefully and cut the molding to fit. Put molding around the acrylic to hold it in place.
- When nailing the molding back into the door, place paper or cardboard over the acrylic to protect it from the hammer.
- After molding is installed, tighten the inserted screw and repeat drilling and inserting the rest of the screws in the pet door frame.
Step 8 Security Cover
- The King Starboard® security 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.
- Remove the drop cloths and clean up the area.
NOTE REGARDING FRENCH DOORS: A "true French door" is a door with several individual panes of glass. There are also doors very much like a French door that have one big pane of glass called single lite doors. This model of pet door IS NOT usable for a single lite door. We do have an "in glass" model available in some areas for that type of door but it requires replacing the entire pane of glass. Some single-light doors are made to look like true French doors.
If you are not sure, look for an engraved glazier’s mark in the corner of the panes. If there are many panes but only one glazier’s mark you are probably dealing with a single-light door. Take the time to make certain. Some single-light doors are almost indistinguishable from a true French door. Also, whenever you install in a French door, consider whether or not the door handle would interfere with the operation of the security cover.
DETERMINE THE TYPE OF FRENCH DOOR INSTALLATION NEEDED: There are three types of French door installation. You will need to determine which type is right for your door before ordering. Use the information and pictures below to help determine what type of installation you need.
- 1. An F-1 consists of removing one pane of glass and installing a custom size pet door in that opening. This typically means first measuring for the door and installing after ordering a custom size door in the appropriate color. Measure the visible glass width by height. This is your rough opening (R.O.).
- 2. An F-2 consists of removing one pane of glass and cutting down or over (or both) into the body of the door. This can usually be done with an in-stock standard size Hale Pet Door.
- 3. An F-3 consists of removing one or more panes of glass and partially replacing one pane. We call this partial pane an infill. This will usually be done with clear acrylic (Plexiglas). This can be either a custom or standard size door but will also require additional materials (Plexiglas, or other infill material).
A word of caution
French doors are often wood that has been stained and varnished. When cutting into a door like this it is a very good idea to draw a second line around your rough opening about 1/8” outside it. Before cutting out the rough opening, score the outside line with a utility knife. This way, if the wood splinters while you are cutting the R.O. it will stop at the scored line.
Study the illustrations below. These are good guidelines for F-3 installations.
GOOD:
Figure 1 - one pane plus part of a second pane vertically.
Figure 2 - one pane plus part of a second pane horizontally.
Figure 3 - one pane plus part of a second pane vertically and down into the base of the door.
Figure 4 - one pane plus part of a second pane horizontally and down into the base of the door.
Figure 5 - one pane plus part of a second pane vertically and into the side of the door.
BAD:
Figure 6 - one pane plus part of a second pane vertically and into the side of the door (side piece is too narrow).
Figure 7 - one pane plus part of a second pane horizontally and into the bottom of the door (bottom piece is too narrow).
Figure 8 - one complete pane and two partial panes (cutting into both mullions).
Figures 1 through 5 are good approaches to an F-3 installation. Try to avoid situations like Figures 6,7 and 8! WE DO NOT RECOMMEND THESE!
Trying to remove that much of the door would either structurally weaken the door or you would have to cut the mullion so they would fit almost perfectly to the pet door interlocking flange, then screw through the flange into the mullions from inside the pet door. This would still be a very weak installation.
F-3 cross section
The figure below shows pieces of build-out on top of the pet door.
The figure below shows reused door molding. If necessary, you can set the wood on top of the pet door and nail the molding to the wood.
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) |
|
Can this be used for French doors? Yes, since they don't make French door inserts like they do for the patio sliding doors. However, make sure that your French door actually has separate panes of glass. If it is just a large sheet of glass, it's a different situation that should be avoided if possible. Also one thing to keep in mind is that French doors with dog doors tend to have much higher step overs so they may not be the best for very small dogs. |
|
My French door is a single pane. What now? We would recommend the Hale Through the Glass Door instead. |
|
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 Guys Insulated 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 with doggie 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. |
|
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? We don't carry French doors for patio 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. We don't sell the entire French doors with built in dog door. |
|
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.
Customer Reviews
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*** |
If you have a rough cut out dimension but want to know the finished tip to tip (total outside frame dimension) here is how that 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 would need to be:
Flap Width + 2-1/16" = the Rough Cut Out Width
Flap Height + 1-3/8" = Rough Cut Out Height
Installation Instructions
Difficulty
Advanced
Steps
08
Time Required
3 - 4 hours
Sections
03
Flags
02
Parts
- Instructions
- Warranty
- 7/64” drill bit
- Hale Pet Door™ Door Model
- Starboard Security Cover
- 5/8” #6 Phillips Head Screws
Tools
- Razor knife
- 2 Putty Knives
- Chisel
- Flat Bar
- Drill
- Reciprocating saw
- Level
- Drop cloths
- Circular saw with diamond blade
- Finishing nail
- Hammer
Please read instructions & notes thoroughly before installation. It is important to note however, that the product warranty may be affected if returns have been modified in any way other than specified by these instructions.
F-1 French Door Basic Installation
Step 1 Identify Molding
- First, find the removable molding that is holding the glass in the French door.
- If the molding has been painted over or you can’t find staples or nails, try sliding a putty knife under the molding.
Step 2 Cut Molding
- After identifying the removable molding, with care, use a razor knife to cut along the back edge of the molding to free it from the door.
Step 3 Remove Molding
- Loosen the molding with a putty knife. To remove the molding, slide one putty knife under the molding.
- Slide the other putty knife on top of the first one. Slide a standard screwdriver, chisel, or flat bar between the putty knives and twist carefully.
Step 4 Remove Glass
- After removing all the necessary molding, make sure all the nails or staples have been removed and push the glass out carefully. The glass is usually glued in place, but with patience and care, it can usually be removed without breaking.
- Loosen it from the outside by going around it with a putty knife or other appropriate tool. Then use a putty knife, chisel, or screwdriver to pry the glass out. Save the glass and molding for re-installation later if desired.
- It is a good idea to wrap the removed pane of glass in cardboard and tape it closed.
- Tape the removed molding to the cardboard and label the cardboard (i..e. glass from dining room French door).
Step 5 Separate the Pet Door
- Separate the pet door into its two halves.
- Place the inner frame of the pet door (the side with the security cover tracks) in the rough opening from the inside of the house.
- Install the outer frame on the outside of the door to sleeve together to the inner frame.
- You should be able to snap the two frames together.
Step 6 (Optional) Rain Cap
- If you choose to use the rain cap for your door installation, attach it to the outer frame as shown in the graphic and picture to the left.
- Then snap the frames together as stated previously.
Step 7 Attach the Frames
- Using the pre-drilled pilot holes in the pet door frame and a 7/64" drill bit, drill one hole into the French door with a 7/64" drill bit 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.
Step 8 Security Cover
- The King Starboard® security 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.
- Remove the drop cloths and clean up the area.
Difficulty
Advanced
Steps
08
Time Required
3 - 4 hours
Sections
03
Flags
02
Parts
- Instructions
- Warranty
- Hale Pet Door™ Door Model
- Starboard Security Cover
- 5/8” #6 Phillips Head Screws
Tools
- Razor knife
- 2 Putty Knives
- Chisel
- Flat Bar
- Drill
- 7/64” drill bit
- Reciprocating saw
- Level
- Drop cloths
- Circular saw with diamond blade
- Finishing nail
- Hammer
Please read instructions & notes thoroughly before installation. It is important to note however, that the product warranty may be affected if returns have been modified in any way other than specified by these instructions.
F-2 French Door Basic Installation
Step 1 Identify Molding
- First, find the removable molding that is holding the glass in the French door.
- If the molding has been painted over or you can’t find staples or nails, try sliding a putty knife under the molding.
Step 2 Cut Molding
- After identifying the removable molding, with care, use a razor knife to cut along the back edge of the molding to free it from the door.
Step 3 Remove Molding
- Loosen the molding with a putty knife. To remove the molding, slide one putty knife under the molding.
- Slide the other putty knife on top of the first one. Slide a standard screwdriver, chisel, or flat bar between the putty knives and twist carefully.
Step 4 Mark Outline
- Mark the body of the French door where you will be cutting.
Step 5 Drill the Corners
- Drill out the corners first and then finish cutting out the rough opening.
- If you ordered one of our standard pet door sizes, use the chart below to find the measurements of the rough opening required for your door.
- If you ordered a custom size pet door, you should have supplied us with the rough opening measurements. Use those same numbers when marking and cutting.
Step 6 Separate the Pet Door
- Separate the pet door into its two halves.
- Place the inner frame of the pet door (the side with the security cover tracks) in the rough opening from the inside of the house.
- Install the outer frame on the outside of the door to sleeve together to the inner frame. You should be able to snap the two frames together.
Step 6 (Optional) Rain Cap
- If you choose to use the rain cap for your door installation, attach it to the outer frame as shown in the graphic and picture to the left.
- Then snap the frames together as stated previously.
Step 7 Attach the Frames
- Using the pre-drilled pilot holes in the pet door frame and a 7/64" drill bit, drill one hole into the French door with a 7/64" drill bit 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.
Step 8 Security Cover
- The King Starboard® security 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.
- Remove the drop cloths and clean up the area.
Difficulty
Advanced
Steps
08
Time Required
3 - 4 hours
Sections
03
Flags
02
Parts
- Instructions
- Warranty
- Hale Pet Door™ Door Model
- Starboard Security Cover
- 5/8” #6 Phillips Head Screws
Tools
- Razor knife
- 2 Putty Knives
- Chisel
- Flat Bar
- Drill
- 7/64” drill bit
- Reciprocating saw
- Level
- Drop cloths
- Circular saw with diamond blade
- Finishing nail
- Hammer
Please read instructions & notes thoroughly before installation. It is important to note however, that the product warranty may be affected if returns have been modified in any way other than specified by these instructions.
F-3 French Door Basic Installation
Step 1 Identify Molding
- First, find the removable molding that is holding the glass in the French door.
- If the molding has been painted over or you can’t find staples or nails, try sliding a putty knife under the molding.
Step 2 Cut Molding
- After identifying the removable molding, with care, use a razor knife to cut along the back edge of the molding to free it from the door.
- If you remove more than one pane of glass, cut out the divider between the panes. To do this, cut almost all the way through from one side. Then bring the saw around from the other side to prevent breaking the divider.
Step 3 Remove Molding
- Loosen the molding with a putty knife. To remove the molding, slide one putty knife under the molding.
- Slide the other putty knife on top of the first one. Slide a standard screwdriver, chisel, or flat bar between the putty knives and twist carefully.
Step 4 Mark the Cutout
- If you will be cutting into the body of the French door, mark the door where you will be cutting and cut out the rough opening.
Step 5 Cut the Acrylic
- You should now have your square rough opening cut to size as well as the extra hole above or to the side of the rough opening for your piece of acrylic or Plexiglas.
- Place the acrylic into the opening and mark where you will need to cut it.
- Make sure all cutting and fitting is done before removing the paper as Plexiglas can scratch easily.
- Cut the acrylic and place it in the French door. Once you have achieved a good fit, carefully remove the paper and put the acrylic back into place.
Step 6 Separate the Pet Door
- Separate the pet door into its two halves. Put the pet door in place.
- Place the inner frame of the pet door (the side with the security cover tracks) in the rough opening from the inside of the house.
- Install the outer frame on the outside of the door to sleeve together to the inner frame. You should be able to snap the two frames.
Step 6 (Optional) Rain Cap
- If you choose to use the rain cap for your door installation, attach it to the outer frame as shown in the graphic and picture to the left.
- Then snap the frames together as stated previously.
Step 7 Attach the Frames
- 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 to hold it in place. Make sure the door is level and adjust if needed.
- Measure carefully and cut the molding to fit. Put molding around the acrylic to hold it in place.
- When nailing the molding back into the door, place paper or cardboard over the acrylic to protect it from the hammer.
- After molding is installed, tighten the inserted screw and repeat drilling and inserting the rest of the screws in the pet door frame.
Step 8 Security Cover
- The King Starboard® security 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.
- Remove the drop cloths and clean up the area.
NOTE REGARDING FRENCH DOORS: A "true French door" is a door with several individual panes of glass. There are also doors very much like a French door that have one big pane of glass called single lite doors. This model of pet door IS NOT usable for a single lite door. We do have an "in glass" model available in some areas for that type of door but it requires replacing the entire pane of glass. Some single-light doors are made to look like true French doors.
If you are not sure, look for an engraved glazier’s mark in the corner of the panes. If there are many panes but only one glazier’s mark you are probably dealing with a single-light door. Take the time to make certain. Some single-light doors are almost indistinguishable from a true French door. Also, whenever you install in a French door, consider whether or not the door handle would interfere with the operation of the security cover.
DETERMINE THE TYPE OF FRENCH DOOR INSTALLATION NEEDED: There are three types of French door installation. You will need to determine which type is right for your door before ordering. Use the information and pictures below to help determine what type of installation you need.
- 1. An F-1 consists of removing one pane of glass and installing a custom size pet door in that opening. This typically means first measuring for the door and installing after ordering a custom size door in the appropriate color. Measure the visible glass width by height. This is your rough opening (R.O.).
- 2. An F-2 consists of removing one pane of glass and cutting down or over (or both) into the body of the door. This can usually be done with an in-stock standard size Hale Pet Door.
- 3. An F-3 consists of removing one or more panes of glass and partially replacing one pane. We call this partial pane an infill. This will usually be done with clear acrylic (Plexiglas). This can be either a custom or standard size door but will also require additional materials (Plexiglas, or other infill material).
A word of caution
French doors are often wood that has been stained and varnished. When cutting into a door like this it is a very good idea to draw a second line around your rough opening about 1/8” outside it. Before cutting out the rough opening, score the outside line with a utility knife. This way, if the wood splinters while you are cutting the R.O. it will stop at the scored line.
Study the illustrations below. These are good guidelines for F-3 installations.
GOOD:
Figure 1 - one pane plus part of a second pane vertically.
Figure 2 - one pane plus part of a second pane horizontally.
Figure 3 - one pane plus part of a second pane vertically and down into the base of the door.
Figure 4 - one pane plus part of a second pane horizontally and down into the base of the door.
Figure 5 - one pane plus part of a second pane vertically and into the side of the door.
BAD:
Figure 6 - one pane plus part of a second pane vertically and into the side of the door (side piece is too narrow).
Figure 7 - one pane plus part of a second pane horizontally and into the bottom of the door (bottom piece is too narrow).
Figure 8 - one complete pane and two partial panes (cutting into both mullions).
Figures 1 through 5 are good approaches to an F-3 installation. Try to avoid situations like Figures 6,7 and 8! WE DO NOT RECOMMEND THESE!
Trying to remove that much of the door would either structurally weaken the door or you would have to cut the mullion so they would fit almost perfectly to the pet door interlocking flange, then screw through the flange into the mullions from inside the pet door. This would still be a very weak installation.
F-3 cross section
The figure below shows pieces of build-out on top of the pet door.
The figure below shows reused door molding. If necessary, you can set the wood on top of the pet door and nail the molding to the wood.
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) |
|
Can this be used for French doors? Yes, since they don't make French door inserts like they do for the patio sliding doors. However, make sure that your French door actually has separate panes of glass. If it is just a large sheet of glass, it's a different situation that should be avoided if possible. Also one thing to keep in mind is that French doors with dog doors tend to have much higher step overs so they may not be the best for very small dogs. |
|
My French door is a single pane. What now? We would recommend the Hale Through the Glass Door instead. |
|
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 Guys Insulated 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 with doggie 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. |
|
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? We don't carry French doors for patio 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. We don't sell the entire French doors with built in dog door. |
|
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.
