How to Fill in the Gap to a Small Dog Door

Installing a small dog door inside a wall or door is not difficult, but if you cut the hole too large it can pose a problem. Bugs, wind and weather can get in through the gap, and it looks unprofessional and ugly as well. You do not have to replace the entire door if you made the hole too large. Instead, you can fill the gap with wood strips and silicone caulk, which will hide the fact that the hole is too large. You can also use spray foam insulation to fill the gap.

Things You'll Need

• ½-inch thick plywood
• Table saw
• Measuring tape
• Power screwdriver
• ½-inch screws
• Silicone caulk
• Spray foam insulation (optional)

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Measure the gap between the dog door and the door or wall.

   • 2

     Cut ½-inch thick plywood to equal this measurement.

   • 3

     Remove the dog door from the door or wall using a screwdriver.

   • 4

     Place the wood strips inside the hole. Screw the strips in place along each gapped side using the ½-inch screws.

   • 5

     Apply a line of silicone caulk into any remaining gaps.

   • 6

     Replace the dog door back inside the hole. Allow the caulk to dry for 24 hours.