Installing a Pet Doorbell

Want to make sure that you always know when your dog is asking to go outside? All you need to do is install a pet doorbell!

There are a variety of different styles of pet doorbells, the pad where your dog steps on it when he wants to go out. The wireless collar that dings whenever the dog gets within three feet of the door.  But the best and easiest pet doorbell is the traditional doorbell that your dog can ring with his paw or nose.

I recommend the Smart Doggie Doorbell.

All you will need to install your pet doorbell is a hook or nail and a hammer, it is that simple.  Holding your pet doorbell up to the wall next to the door, measure how far down you will need the doorbell to be so your dog can nudge it with his nose or paw. Mark the spot where you will need to hammer in the nail or hook that the doorbell will hang on. Install the nail or hook. Once this is done, all you need to do is hang your pet doorbell.

Here are some tips for training your dog to use it the doggie doorbell, you may need to customize these for your device, but the basics are there. 

Choosing a New Front Door

This summer you may want to refresh the look of your house and besides a new coat of paint, nothing improves the entryway like a new front door.  The first step is choosing a new door.

The many different types of doors available and each have their advantages and disadvantages. The best door for you will depend upon the qualities (design, durability, efficiency or economy)  that are most important to you.

Some notes about the doors available:

Glass:

Many doors are available with decorative glass and most doors have insulated glass for energy efficiency.

Wood:

Wood doors are popular because of the way they look.  A natural hardwood door with decorative glass can be an elegant update to your home. You can also stain or paint wood doors.  A disadvantage of wood is the fact that it shrinks and swells with changes in the weather.  Some wood doors have laminated cores to reduce the potential for weather related problems, but the finish on all wood doors must be maintained to prevent damage over time.

Steel:

Steel doors are very popular. They have a core of foam insulation and are very energy efficient. These doors are highly resistant to shrinking, swelling, warping or splitting that commonly happen with wood doors. Steel doors do not often have the  aesthetic qualities and character as wood doors, but if you are willing to spend a little more there are some nice models out there.

Fiberglass:

Fiberglass doors have many of the advantages of steel, with the added benefit of the ability to be stained to approximate the look of a wood door. However they are relatively more expensive than steel doors, and still fall short of the look and feel of wood.

Once you have chosen a door, you will want to choose a doorknob and lock assembly, as well as a nice new doorbell to compliment your final look and feel.

Once you have completed choosing a door and accessories you can then install the door.