Many homeowners worry about heat loss with dog and cat doors, but insulated pet doors minimize this problem. Most higher-quality pet doors take steps to prevent heat loss, but when it's cold out, some loss is almost always an issue. Solid-panel pet doors usually offer the most insulation, but flap-style pet doors with magnetic seals also do the job well.

Types of Insulated Pet Doors

There are a number of ways that manufacturers insulate pet doors including:

• Dual flaps. Using two flaps reduces the odds that the flaps will get stuck open when a dog or cat goes through. Two layers of protection also increases the insulation.
• Thermal flaps. Specially designed plastic is sometimes used to reduce heat loss.
• Locking panels. On particularly cold (or hot) days, panels can seal off the door flaps for added insulation. These also have security benefits.

Few homeowners complain about heat and energy loss from pet doors because of the aforementioned insulation features. Additionally, pet doors are not open for very long when used. Those in temperate climates such as Sacramento probably would not notice any change in energy bills with the installation of a pet door.

Homeowners in Sacramento and throughout Northern California should contact Brothers Home Improvement Inc. Windows and Doors at 800 672-3777 to have patio pet doors installed in their homes. This family-owned business designs, manufactures, sells and installs custom patio doors with pet door features. Brothers Home Improvement has additional locations throughout Southern California and Northern Nevada as well.