New Windows for Your Home

It can be exciting to get new patio doors that let in the light and make it easier to entertain in the backyard. However, if you own a cat, your lovely doors are at risk for smudges and scratches. Here are some tips to keep your doors looking brand new and your cat happy.

Look for Easy Cleaning Solutions for the Glass

Since sliding patio doors have large panes of glass, your cat will inevitably want to look outside. If you want more privacy and aren't particular about the view, you can keep the glass protected from your cat by covering it with a drape-and-valance set. If you live in a cold area, this is also a great way to keep this part of the house better insulated.

If you and your cat both want the view, keep a spray bottle in a cabinet nearby. Make a cleaning solution that's equal parts water and vinegar since it's a safe cleaning mix for cats. And instead of waiting until your doors are grimy with paw prints and nose prints, do a quick spray—if you can—at the end of the day, and then wipe away the excess moisture with a rag.

Get a Cat Door Installed in the Sliding Doors

Some people don't realize that they can get a small door installed in larger sliding doors. If you want to give your cat freedom in the yard and protect your door, a cat door is a great way to do that. Contact the patio door manufacturer or a glazier company for help. Glaziers will need to come over and measure your doors since patio doors often require customization for glass panels that hold cat doors.

If you aren't keen on a pet door, keep in mind that there are many translucent doors available, so they don't have to look like eye sores. Some homeowners are also worried about energy efficiency, but there are many doors now that have flaps that seal tightly to magnets after your pet goes through. These magnets keep the wind and other elements out.

Consider Applying a Window Tint to the Door's Glass

Window tint is a great way to add privacy, protect yourself from UV rays, and reduce utility costs. But a little-known benefit of window tint is that it can protect the glass from scratches. Some homeowners have the door installers coat the door with a painted tint beforehand. If you didn't have that done, you can get some sticky film to place on the doors.

You can place sticky film on your doors and then use an X-acto knife—being careful of the glass and caulk—to cut the material to a perfect fit. As an added precaution, you may want to look into plastic nail caps to place on your cat's claws. These nail caps protect your glass doors, and they make it so your cat doesn't have to go through the pain of declawing.

Invest in the Right Mesh Material for the Screen Door

Screens between glass doors are great for letting a breeze in, but still keeping your cat from getting out. The major downside, however, is that cats are notorious for ripping holes in the mesh and for trying to climb it. You can deter your cat with gentle corrections, like water-filled spray bottles, but you can also invest in stronger screen doors. Instead of getting an aluminum or fiberglass wire, consider a vinyl-coated polyester mesh. This material is much stronger and, if your cat does climb it or scratch it, it may not rip.

If you keep all of these tips in mind, you will be able to extend the life of your patio doors!