I'm looking for a company or contractor that would install pet doors. What kind of company should I be looking for, and what should I expect out of the job? – Angie's List member Hector Sosa

"You should be looking for a reputable handyman who backs his work and completes the job to the customers' satisfaction, if not better," says Josh Matthews, vice president of highly rated Grandma's Handyman Service, Inc. in Aurora, Colo., which also services Denver.

Contractors often mark up their materials, he says, so buying your own pet door kit will save you money. He adds that installing a pet door into an existing door will be less costly than a wall installation. However, the type of door will determine how long the job will take.

"For instance, a metal door with foam insulation can be easily cut and sealed," Matthews says. "I suggest not installing a pet door into an antique door of any kind, because it can never be replaced. Hollow core doors are also not an ideal install. Once a hole is cut into them, their strength is greatly compromised."

Pet doors decrease a room's energy efficiency, Matthews says, so he suggests filling gaps during installation with caulk, insulation or expanding foam to help keep out unwanted air and water.

Depending on the size of the pet door, home security will always be an issue, as well. Although most pet doors come with slide-in interior locks, they are made of plastic and easily manipulated by burglars.

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