Did you know our Patented PatioLock model solved the 5 major Security & Convenience problems with ALL other pet doors for sliding door brands on the market?
We have been making pet doors for nearly 20 years and have invested heavily in to R&D to invent our patented PatioLock model that solves the 5 security and consumer problems with ALL other patio pet door brands.
If you want the short answer, our patented PatioLock model is the ONLY pet door in the world that LOCKS your glass door using your existing door handle with NO screwing, NO cutting, NO drilling, NO brackets/rods, NO handy skills, and NO tools!
The video below shows our universal PatioLock model in action. One side of the pet door has a latch that locks on to your wall frame whilst the other side of the pet door has a catch that your sliding door locks on to. Simple. Effective. Convenient. Security.
Yes, the lock kits are universal and assemble by hand with allen keys (included), so no skills are needed. If you want to order one, just run through the order checklist further down the home page to check your frame and lock compatability. Then click on the patiolock model and select your options. Tip: Add the screen door adapter during checkout even if you do not have a screen because it seals and secures the 'glass' door.
PatioLockTM model |
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A little note for those who like to research...and yes, the website does look dated but there is a reason for this :)
We understand the website looks dated but we have a few more options with our patiolock model compared to all the other brand pet doors that only have a basic panel to sell, so we kept this information rich format so you can just scroll down ONE page to get all the info you need to make an educated purchasing decision rather than have to try and navigate through lots of different minimally designed web pages and videos to try and find all the info you need/want.
For navigation purposes, the vids & info towards the top of the home page outline the patiolock model. Then there is the Order Checklist steps section to run through before ordering followed by the FAQ section.
Please note we have been making pet doors for a loooong time, so there are some older dated videos/info about our original 'base model' throughout the website when delivery was also free (sadly, delivery is no longer free). To clairfy, our base model is still available but DOES require cutting, screwing, etc to lock, so hardly anyone buys it but we keep the info up for the rare handyman home owner who likes to tinker. 95% of customers just buy the PatioLock model because it is almost the same price and locks without the screwing and can be re-used if you move house. It's a no brainer...
What are the 5 main security and consumer issues with ALL other brand pet doors for sliding doors?
In order to make an informed decision and to highlight the value of our PatioLock model, we thought it would be helpful to highlight the 5 longstanding consumer problems. Note, ALL other brands have these issue including those that advertise 'locks' or 'lock brackets' or 'security packs', ALL require SCREWING, handy skills, and tools, which make them an unwise and limiting choice in light of our patented PatioLock model.
Consumer Problem 1: Brands that advertise 'lock brackets' and 'security packs' etc will require you to FIRST screw the pet door for sliding doors into the wall frame to stop the pet door insert moving. This is not good for renters nor home owners because it leaves screw holes in the sliding door frames and the temporary pet door.
Consumer Problem 2: The SECOND step to gain security typically involves removing the catch plate that the sliding glass door locks on to from the wall frame onto either an unsightly bracket that will overhang the dog door frame or onto a NON-ADJUSTABLE screen door adapter. The latter will require cutting and screwing and handy skills to get it to fit the height of your sliding door frame. Removing catch plates can damage paint work and/or look unsightly with unpainted wall sections exposed.
Consumer Problem 3: Not only is screwing and cutting and drilling involved but handy skills and tools and time are needed to transfer locks (note the going rate is $200-500 for installation on top of the cost of the insert). A lot of people out there do not have the handy skills or tools or time to do this.
Consumer Problem 4: Because all other products/brands require the abovementioned screwing to secure the patio pet door, then it all has to be dismantled and unscrewed to remove it. This means you can not easily remove the pet door, for instance, if you were going away for a short holiday or entertaining, as the entire system requires unscrewing. You can not immediately lock your glass door either as locks need to be transferred from brackets/adapters back on to the wall frame. This not only takes time but again you will also need the tools and handy skills. If/when you move, there will be holes from previous catch plates on the pet door insert parts as well because locks are never in the same spot.
Consumer Problem 5: Hard Ware brand doors do NOT lock and have major functional limitations:
These brands are not only made from very cheap materials/designs to allow retailers 100-160% mark up but they have many other unnecessary disadvantages including:
- You can not lock the glass door.
- You can not use your screen door.
- They do not seal.
- They are at risk of pry entry because they do not have a screen door adapter function/accessory.
- Limited colour choice.
- A cheap two-piece inferior frame design is used to save retail packaging space (shorter boxes) on shelves for the retailers benefit at the expense of your security- two-piece designs are weak- we only manufacture one-piece pet doors.
- The flaps tend to be small with a TALL rise (bottom rail)- a tall rise is PROBLEMATIC for most pets, especially when they get older/imobile.
- Limited 12 month warranty.
- Limited/problematic flap sizes.
Research will highlight our patented PatioLock model is the best patio pet door choice in Australia.
If you do your research before you buy, you will find our patented PatioLock dog door for sliding doors has NONE of the problems outlined above. This truly offers you the Ultimate in Security and Convenience.
As they say, the devil is in the details. Investigation will point out that ALL other pet door inserts have the 5 problems, despite their claims. So rather than invest $100s of your hard earned money on a less effective pet door system, order our patented PatioLock model solution.
Watch below for a more detailed outline of the PatioLock model and Adjustable adapter:
That's not all...we also have the ONLY patented Adjustable Screen Door Adapter = No cutting required!
When fitting a doggie door for sliding doors it is important to highlight the screen door adapter is a universal wall frame section that runs up the side of the pet door on the side that meets the sliding door. This primarily seals and secures the GLASS door (like the wall frame that runs up your wall), so we strongly recommend you get the adapter even if you do not have a screen so that the glass door secures properly as designed.
If you do have a screen door, then the screen door adapter allows you to keep using the screen door to let fresh air into the house without letting all the insects in and to also save money on heating/cooling.
Our patented Height Adjustable Screen Door Adapter is the ONLY one in the world that does not require cutting AND can be re-used if/when you move!
To ORDER the Adjustable Screen Door Adapter, just ADD it to the cart when you click on the patiolock model item and select your options (flap size, colour, add the adapter, select whether you have a one or two rotating hook lock - details of how to check this are in the order checklist steps below).
PatioLockTM model |
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Our PatiolockTM sliding door dog door offers you many unique benefits with the following Specs:
- Security with NO Screwing and No Drilling
- Handy Skills NOT needed
- Compatible with common sliding door locks that have rotating hook/s that come out of the door handle
- Locks both single opening and double opening sliding doors (ie., two doors that open away from each other)!
- Locks most double-glazed common aluminium-framed double doors- as long as the sliding glass door frame is around 32mm thick or thinner
- Sliding door will lock immediately after the pet door is removed- no need to relocate catchers (tools, skills, time) because original sliding door lock hardware remains untouched
- Option to use Screen door with NO Cutting with our unique & patented Adjustable Screen Door Adapter
- Re-use at multiple properties as fully adjustable system
- Saves you installation time and costs
- No holes left in your sliding door or pet door!
- Fast & Easy Installation / Removal
- No need to use crude rods in tracks to wedge the sliding door against the pet door
- No need to install lock brackets to screw the pet door in to the sliding door frame
- No need to purchase and install extra lock hardware and contraptions to relocate the existing catch plate off the wall frame (e.g., security packs, patio bolts, etc all require tools/drilling/skills/costs)
- Allows for keyed entry through the sliding door because the existing locks are used so the key lock will work
- Weather seals included to maximise insect and weather proofing
- Flap has pile weather seals to minimise draft (unlike many other flaps on the market)
- Lockable powder coated steel panel to lock the flap area to keep your pets in/out
- Aesthetically pleasing - Modern design to match existing sliding door frames and locks (unlike most other brands that use thinner cheaper smaller frames with cheap plastic flaps)
- Built to last! Supreme quality and design - check our reviews
- 5mm toughened Safety Glass Pane
- 2mm clear flexible polycarbonate flap
- Magnetic flap closure
- Locks are Made In Australia - 18 businesses are involved!
- 199-211cm height range (extension kits available for 2.4m doors)
What do I need to CHECK before ordering a pet door insert?
Please scroll through the CHECKLIST STEPS outlined below before ordering your own dog door for sliding doors. There are pictures and videos to help.
Ultimately, it is pretty simple, if you want to lock without screwing then check if your locks and frames are compatible as per checklist below and order the paitolock model. If you want to cut/drill/screw then the base model is an option if your frames are within the standard range as per the checklist below:
STEP 1: CHECK your sliding door lock compatibility:
Open your sliding door handle and CHECK if it has ONE or TWO hooks that ROTATE from the handle into a catch plate on the wall/frame. REFER pics below.
1.1: Internal style locks do NOT work with the PatioLockTM model:
Locks with hooks/tabs that do not rotate and mechanisms that lock inside the sliding door frame are not compatible. Refer pictures below. Note hos the hook/s are inside the actual frame, they do not come out from the door handle itself like common locks outlined above.
Send us pics of your locks and check the FAQ section as you can likely still use our base model with a screen door adapter.
STEP 2: CHECK your wall frame is 10cm deep (or Less) as per pic below. This is for both PatiolockTM and Base models.
STEP 3. Check your sliding door height falls between 199-211cm. Please note extension kits are available for taller doors (eg., 2.4m; 2.7m) in M & L flap sizes.
Please CHECK your sliding door height measurements below before ordering:
a. From the inside bottom of the floor track to the LOWEST edge of the top track = 199cm or more.
b. From the very inside bottom of the floor track to the very inside TOP of the top track = 211cm or less.
STEP 4: Select dog door for sliding door flap size:
Did you know most people overestimate the flap size needed? Make sure you order the correct flap size by measuring the shoulder height of your pet against your leg (it's easier) and their shoulder width and then refer to the table below. Do not use pet weight as a guide.
Ideally, the top of the flap (refer table below) should be taller than your pet’s shoulder height and they also need to easily pass through the flap width (ie., M=22cm; L=27cm; XL= 39cm). Please note cats are fine with any size flap but if you only have a cat/s, then order the medium (small discontinued).
First: Flap Width: Measure shoulder width of your pet and refer to table below for width reference. Testing width: open your sliding door 22cm / 27cm / 39cm to see what width works best :) Second: Flap Height: Measure your pet from the ground to the top of their shoulders then refer below. *NOTE: The bottom rail on ALL pet door sizes is only 5cm, so easy for ALL pets to walk over, even when they are old! The flap height is from the ground to the top of the flap. **If you are looking at the XL, please measure you have enough space for human traffic after losing approximately 50cm of your opening space- it is a big pet door!
Flap Size
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Flap width (cm)
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Flap Height (cm)
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M
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22 |
41 |
L
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27 |
61 |
XL |
39 |
71
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* Labs & GRs are fine with the Large flap.NOTE:
Note XL only comes in Black or White!
The Overal width of the panels below indicates how much space the pet door will take up in your sliding door frame. Check you have enough room for human traffic in the case of the XL door as it is huge! STEP 5: Pet door insert colour choice
- Primrose (cream)
- Black
- White
- Silver-grey
- Note XL only comes in Black or White!
STEP 6: Do I need the Screen Door Adapter? What if I don't even have a screen door?
The Screen Door Adapter is recommended even if you DO NOT have /use a screen door. Why? Quite a few reasons:
- It secures the glass door by creating a channel for the glass door to close in to, like your wall frame. This means the join between the pet door and class door can not be used to pry the doors apart.
- It seals the gaps between the pet door and sliding glass door which minimises insect intrusion
- It aids weather proofing the GLASS door- wind and rain won;t get through potential gaps between the pet door and sliding door.
- It conceals the locks which overhang the pet door and are exposed without the adapter creating an injury risk if you catch your arm or clothes when entering the house.
- Aesthetics are greatly enhances as no gaps and no exposed locks and no weather seals needed.
- The secondary function is that you can also use your screen door - allow air to come in/out without all the insects.
- You can transfer locks from your wall frame to the adapter for the SECURITY SCREEN if you want the added security of having your screen door lock. This step involves a few screws and a drill-driver and is easy for someone slightly handy to do.
So, you can see, there are lots of beneficial functions for the adapter, so we advise you get it so that the PatioLock system works as designed/intended.
STEP 7: Shipping Costs:
Please note some of the videos on the website are up to 15 years old because we have been making pet doors for nearly 20 years, so there are some dated references to free shipping prior to covid and exponential price rises since 2022. So, free shipping or a flat Australia-wide shipping fee is no longer possible because the pet doors are over 1.8m long and thus incur manual handling and over-size item fees in addition to the actual freight charges, domestic delivery surcharges, fuel levy surcharges, etc. Most couriers including Australia Post can not be used at all due because they do not ship items over 1.8m.
So, in order to streamline checkout for most, there are a few common zones to choose from at checkout that cover most of the highly populated areas along the east coast and Perth metro.
If you live outside the cities listed in the freight option then select the first shipping option for $1. We will then email you an invoice based on our cost to your address depending on the courier used.
If you prefer, you can email before ordering for a freight quote to modpetdoors@gmail.com
Unfortunately, we have to use multiple couriers depending on location and warehouse origin so it is not possible to use an accurate freight calculator at checkout. The zone model is the best system we can come up with thus far to cover most of the populated areas.
Please note zoning in metro cities is based on the courier's network, not Aust post or goole zoning, so some suburbs on outer areas are not included in the metro zoning. If you prefer, you can email your address for a quote before you order but we only forward what we are charged by the courier.
ORDER CHECKLIST SUMMARY:
STEP 1. Lock: If buying the PatioLockTM model check if the glass door handle has one or two hooks that ROTATE from the handle.
STEP 2. Wall frame: Up to 10cm deep (note: stacker/multiple/timber sliding doors have deeper frames. Contact us before buying).
STEP 3. Sliding Door Height: Check 199-211cm range (Extension kits available for M-L flaps).
STEP 4. Flap size- Make sure you follow the guidelines to get the correct size flap.
STEP 5: Colour- four colours to choose from: Primrose (cream), Satin Black, White or Silver-grey.
STEP 6: Screen Door Adapter- usually recommended for security, functioning, sealing. For exceptions refer above details.
STEP 7: Shipping - refer to the shipping zone info in the order checklst
PatioLockTM model |
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Summary of some of the key points are outlined below in case you missed it:
Why is our PatioLock model hands down the BEST pet door for sliding doors on the market?
1000s of happy customers report our PatioLock model to be the best because it is the ONLY pet door in the world that has its own patented locks integrated on to the pet door frames, so it effecitvely locks itself in to your sliding door system for instant and convenient security without any cutting, drilling, screwing, transferring of locks, brackets, rods or handy skills!
This screwless self-locking capacity is a major game changer. It now makes no sense to buy our base model or other doors on the market that ALL require screwing, brackets, tools, cutting, skills, etc. Why leave holes in your frames when you don't have to!
What about the Base Model? How is the Base Model different to the PatioLock model?
The difference is pretty simple but profound.
The Base model requires screwing, handy skills, leaving holes in the sliding door frame and pet door, tools, permission to leave holes (an issue for renters) and cutting adapters down to size (if you buy the standard adapter). The PatioLock model does not require ANY of these facets because it locks witout screwing.
Our Base model set up (and competitors versions of our base model that use brackets/adapters to transfer locks) not only have the above issues but it is also difficult to easily and quickly remove the pet door because the whole system needs to be dismantled. Brackets and adapters need to be unscrewed from the wall frame and the pet door and then locks need to be unscrewed from adapters/brackets and put back on the wall before the glass door will lock. This is a pain, especially if you are going away for the weekend or a holiday or entertaining and could use the extra access space without a pet door in the sliding door gap whilst guests are over.
Ultimately, the Base model approach to achieving security is problematic dated and inconvenient in almost all cases and is really made redundant when you now have the option for the PatioLock model and enjoy all its benefits.
So, does anyone still buy the Base Model?
For the most part, once customers find out about our PatioLock model and the fact that it is the only pet door that can truly lock without screwing or handy skills and all the other benefits already outlined in detail on the website, then the PatioLock model becomes popular and abvious choice in most cases. However, there are some exceptions outlined below who still buy the Base Model:
1. Customers on an extremely tight budget and can only afford a base model panel on its own and plan to use the cheap but inconvenient rod in the floor track to lock the glass door.
2. Customers who have sliding doors with INTERNAL locks- then the base model and adapter is the only option. Refer to the order checklist step about Lock compatability and the FAQ page item below on internal locks if you have them.
3. Rare customers who tend to have all/most of the following traits: not renters so own their own home & are handy & have tools & have time & like tinkering and doing projects themselves at their house & are not fussed about leaving holes & don't go away much & don't entertain much or have a spare sliding door just for their pet.
4. Some customers just want a panel for their laundry area and are not fussed about security or how it looks or seals because they can shut the laundry door and no one sees it (security or locking the pet door is still an issue but can be solved with the cheap but inconvenient rod in the floor track).
If you want to buy a Base Model, click on the link below:
Some customer reviews:
Installed it myself!!! The hardest part was opening the box
This product is amazing! Easy to install, fits perfectly and locks securely!! Even matches perfectly with the sliding door. Worth every cent!! Ordered one day...delivered the next. The pre sale service was fantastic to ensure I purchased the right product to fit the existing door lock and my two cavaliers love ❤️ it. Thank you.
As advertised- secure adjustable no installation costs
Very happy with product. Very adjustable so it fits perfectly. Good quality and fast delivery. Great service and product.
Very impressed with the quality of both the product and the customer service. Thank you. I have recommended this company to all my friends. PATIOLOCK SECURITY PET DOOR
So easy to fit, so convenient for our pets and superfast delivery- the turnaround time was less than 48 hours. Julian was extremely helpful, and we were able to fit the door so quickly (and we don't have a "handyman" bone in our bodies!!) If we can do it, anyone can. Thank you so much Julian and everyone at MODERN PET DOORS. Cheers Sue and Mark F
PatioLockTM model |
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
In case you missed it, our patented PatioLock model is truly unique and offers you many unrivalled benefits including:
- You no longer need to drill holes in your sliding door system.
- You no longer need to drill holes in to the pet door and wall frame with brackets of sorts.
- You no longer need to transfer your existing lock from the wall frame on to brackets/adapter which also leaves unsightly gaps in paint work on the wall.
- Not having to screw is great for renters and home owners because you are not damaging the property in any way.
- You no longer need to have tools and handy skills to try and lock the glass door.
- You no longer need to potentially pay $200-500 for a handyman to install brackets and transfer locks to get a pet door to lock your glass door. This alone is a great savings.
- If you move house, you do not need to buy another screen door adaper as we have the only adjustable one that does not require cutting and can be re-used on different height sliding doors.
- You get the convenience of using your existing sliding door handle to open/close/lock the glass door to the pet door. No bending over to get a rod in and out of the floor track.
- You can easily and quickly unlock and remove the pet door in seconds and instantly lock your glass door: great for when you are entertaining, moving house or going away for a holiday.
- You can take the system to your pet sitter for temporary use with security whilst you go away if they have a common sliding door system.
- You can keep using the system when you move house because the locks are fully adjustable and universal, so it doesn't matter if your door opens to the left or right.
- The PatioLock system is made in Australia so you are getting premium quality and also supporting local industry.
PatioLockTM model |
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Why is convenience around locking important?
If you were not aware, our base model, and some other pet doors on the market that have a screen door adapter, require you to screw the pet door into the wall frame, then remove the catch plate from your wall and transfer it on to the screen door adapter or various brackets. This requires screwing into the pet door and sliding door, which requires handy skills and tools and leaves holes in the sliding door frame and pet door frame. Not an option for renters or customers who are not handy or do not want to leave holes in their expensive sliding door system.
Our patented PatioLock solves these problems because it allows you to lock your glass door to the sliding door dog door without having to screw anything or transfer lock mechanisms or cut or drill or dismantle lock parts or install patio bolts or screw brackets or use crude rod contraptions like all the other pet door inserts on the market!
Being able to lock the sliding door dog door instantly without screwing, cutting or drilling is a true game changer for both renters and home owners. With our PatioLock pet door insert you can simply keep using and locking your sliding door normally as it was designed.
Ultimately, why screw holes and buy/fit extra brackets etc to try and secure a doggie door for sliding doors when you don't need to? Your sliding door already has its own set of locks that can be utilised effectively.
The convenience of not screwing, drilling or cutting does come at a bit higher cost because the locks are made in Australia (this is not a typo and costs us a fortune) but we like nice things and figure it is rare these days to have the option to buy a well designed and supreme quality product that is going to last... We also think it is important to support local Australian businesses so that not everything is outsourced overseas. 18 businesses are involved in making the locking system!
Again, please note handy skills or tools are NOT required to fit our Patiolock dog doors for sliding doors so everyone can now access and enjoy the Ultimate in Security and Convenience.
How is it possible to lock the glass door to the pet door without screwing or handy skills?
Our patented PatioLock model has its own fully adjustable locking system that mounts on the pet door insert using allen keys (included), so no tools are needed.
One side of the pet door has a hook lock that latches into your catch/striker on the wall.
The other side of the pet door has a catch/striker that your door handle latches in to. Done.
The locks are universal and fully adjustable for either single or two rotating hook locks (i.e., common sliding door handle locks) and work regardless of whether your door opens to the left or right. The Patented PatioLock system is also the ONLY pet door for sliding doors that can typically lock twin or double opening sliding doors because the pet door locks on to both the existing handles/locks on the left and right doors.
What does all this mean for me? What benefits do I get from buying the PatioLock model?
This means our Patented PatioLock model locks itself on to your existing sliding door locks. This is unique and represents a major point of difference and a number of benefits to you compared to all other pet doors on the market, including our own base model.
First, ALL other pet doors on the market require screwing and brackets of sorts and handy skills and tools to lock the glass door using the existing lock. You will also leave holes in the sliding door system and the pet door. The PatioLock model does NOT require this at all because it can easily lock itself into your sliding door system with its own locks.
Second, we think it is most convenient and smarter to use the existing sliding door locks rather than adding brackets or contraptions like adjustable rods in the floor track to attempt to lock the glass door, hence the invention of the PatioLock system. This means you do not need to fit brackets or buy any extra lock contraptions to lock the pet door to your glass door. The PatioLock comes with the hand-assembled lock kit so no screwing and no extra parts and no damage to your sliding door.
In other words, unlike our base model and some other pet doors on the market, you do NOT need to transfer locks to be able to lock the glass door using the existing locks because the pet door can lock itself on to your wall frame and glass door handle.
Third, this means no more screwing holes in the sliding door frame or pet door; no more transferring locks; no more handy skills; no more handyman costs; and if you move, you can re-use it as everything is adjustable, including our patented adjustable screen door adapter.
Fourth, you get the added benefit that the Patented PatioLock model only takes seconds to unlock and thus remove the pet door from the wall frame completely and your glass door will immediately lock. You do not have to unscrew brackets and dismantle the entire set up to be able to remove it and also you do not need to then relocate the lock from adapters/brackets back on to the wall frame. This is great if you are entertaining and prefer more access room. It is also very safe and secure if you are going away for the weekend/holidays because you can immediately lock your glass after unlocking and removing the pet door because the existing locks have not been tampered with.
Overall, our Patented PatiolockTM model is: Smarter. Secure. Cost-Effective. Verstatile & Convenient.
I'm confused...should I buy the base model or the patiolock model?
Sorry, we know there is a lot of information on our site and some of the info from earlier videos are pre-PatioLock model days so it can get confusing. However, the choice is pretty simple, in a nut shell, if you do NOT want to cut, drill and screw, AND you have run through the order checklist on the home page and your doors and locks are compatible, then customers buy the PatioLock model.
Even though the PatioLockTM model might cost $30 (with a single hook lock) or $50 (with a two hook lock) more when compared to the Base Model, we think this it is great value getting the locks as you will not be screwing into the doorframe and pet door or require a handyman/costs, and you can re-use it if/when you move, and you can quickly and easily instal and remove the pet door system if you go away/out. So, it doesn't really make much sense to get the Base model when the PatioLock is far superior in terms of security and convenience for almost the same price.
If you want more detailed explanation, then continue reading below:
Most Popular & Convenient Choice: PatioLockTM pet door insert
The patented PatioLockTM dog door for sliding doors with the Adjustable Screen Door Adapter is the Ultimate in Security and Convenience because it offers numerous benefits compared with all other temporary pet doors and thus it is the most popular model.
As noted, it is the ONLY pet door insert that can lock without screwing but there are also lots of other benefits including: it is cheaper overall as there are no additional handyman costs; it can be reused if/when you move; it has been designed to be installed by people who are NOT handy :); the system is fast and easy to install and remove as no screwing or lock/frame parts to dismantle; you won't leave screw holes everywhere; no extra lock contraptions to buy/fit; and it is the only pet door system that can effectively lock double sliding doors (doors that open away from each other). So great for renters and/or people who are not handy but want security!
So, if you want to LOCK your pet door to your sliding glass door WITHOUT screwing, cutting, drilling, handy skills, etc, then order the Patiolock model- just run through the order checklist on the home page before ordering to make sure your frames and locks are standard.
What if I am a Home Owner AND Handy-person AND/OR on a tight budget: should I get the Base model or the PatioLock model?
If you are a home owner AND also have handy skills AND also have 2-3 hours to spare AND are not moving home AND are happy to leave holes in the pet door and sliding door frame, then you could buy the Base Model Pet door with a Screen Door Adapter and transfer locks onto the pet door system. This involves skills, tools, screwing etc. This base model system still works to secure the glass door if screwing and cutting and drilling does not bother you.
We understand pets can get expensive, so if you are on a tight budget then the Base Model Pet Door Insert on its own without a screen door adapter is still an effective temporary pet door solution. There is a rod in the patio pet door box that can be cut and put in the floor track to crudely but effectively wedge the glass door against the pet door. You could also add a screen door adapter later if you wanted to transfer locks and/or use your screen door. However, all these methods are inconvenient and inferior compared to the relatively small extra expense of purchasing the locks with the patiolock model.
Note the other downside to the base model is that
Can the flap be locked to keep pets in/out?
Yes. A galvanised and powder coated steel panel is included with every door to lock the pet in/out. It has a seamless modern design- notice there are no rails and grooves all around the flap like other pet doors :) It goes in Sideways and locks inside the actual pet door frame for a clean modern look and there are no rails to collect pet hair and grime.
What if my doors are taller than 2.11m?
We have extension kits for Medium and Large flap sizes. One kit will be suitable for sliding doors up to 2.4m. Two kits would be required for sliding doors up to 2.7m. Each kit is $60 if ordered at the same time as the pet door. Kits that are ordered separately will entail shipping and warehouse fees (usually $25) and we will email you for this once the extension kit order is in the system. Please note handy skills and a drill-driver are required to fit the kits.
To ORDER an extension kit: Click on the ‘shop’ tab, then ‘pet door options’, then click on the extension kit item.
If you have a small flap it is possible to buy a medium extension kit and cut back the panels to the small width using an angle grinder with a 1mm thick blade.
If you need to extend an XL flap size, it is possible to use two kits side-by-side and then cut them back to the desired width with an angle grinder. Alternatively, a local sheet metal worker could cut two pieces of aluminium or steel sheet metal (e.g., 1.2mm thick) to the size needed and then rivet this on to the existing top panel at the top of the pet door. Please email for further info on this approach.
Are handy skills needed to install the PatioLockTM sets?
No handy skills are required. However, a rubber mallet ($3 from hard wares) is helpful to fit the Screen Door Adapter Accessory (recommended).
When is it a good idea NOT to buy a Screen Door Adapter?
If your sliding door frame has been put in backwards whereby the glass door is in the outside track, the PatioLock model can still lock the glass door but only WITHOUT a Screen Door Adapter. Note the rod in the floor track or fitting a paitobolt methods to lock the glass door will NOT work because the glass door and track is on the outside so is accessible by an intruder.
So, if your glass door is on the OUTSIDE track, you can either get the PatioLock model to lock the glass door but there may be potential gaps between the pet door and the glass door (weather seals are included to help with the gaps but this is not secure when compared to having a screen door adapter) or you can opt for the base model pet door with a screen door adapter if you want to use both your glass and screen door. However, locks need to be transferred into the adapter using handy skill/screwing,etc for the glass and/or screen door to lock.
Budget/Laundry: If you are on a tight budget and/or are putting the pet door for sliding doors in a laundry and security and sealing etc are not important to you, then you could get away with ordering the pet door insert on its own without a screen door adapter- it just wont work and seal and secure as well. You can either use the PatioLock model to lock it or just get a base model panel and then use another way to lock the glass door (e.g., fit a patio bolt, use a rod in the floor track behind the glass door).
Do I still need to buy a Screen Door Adapter even if I do not have a screen door?
It is recommended if you buy the PatioLockTM model (provided your glass door is on the inside track closest to inside the house) because the adapter hides the locks and creates a more secure installation. There are numerous additional benefits including: better security (reduces prying), great for weather sealing; great for bug proofing; and it looks much better because potential gaps from the join between the pet door and the sliding door are hidden.
Does it matter what direction my sliding door opens?
No, the systems are universal so they work with both left and right opening doors.
What if I have twin-double doors that meet in the middle and open away from each other?
Yes, there are options for double sliding doors outlined below.
1. The ONLY pet door for sliding doors that can lock twin doors effectively is the PatiolockTM model.
Most customers offset the PatiolockTM pet door insert into the right glass door opening space (standing inside the house looking out). The screen door adapter is then fitted up the left side of the patio pet door so that the left glass and left screen door both close into the adapter. This allows full opening of the left doors for human traffic and it is also the left door that tends to have the handle with the hooks in it. So then the left glass door just locks to the pet door insert normally with the lock in the door handle. The right side of the pet door then locks on to the right glass door. The right screen door is left open to allow the flap to swing in and out of the house. Note the pet door is stationary in the right door opening space (or left door if your handles are the opposite way around).
2. Why can’t the base model pet door with a screen door adapter be used on double doors?
Because there is no wall frame to screw/fix the pet door to, so the pet door will just slide under force. It is also not viable to remove one of the door handles to mount onto the adapter because they are usually too thick/big and then you don’t have a handle on the right glass door, which means the right glass door is not lockable and can be opened for intruder access.
3. If you are on a tight budget then a base model pet door could be used but this would then require fitting patio bolts to both sliding doors (about $20 each from hard wares) to pin the sliding doors against the pet door. This involves screwing & drilling and handy skills etc to fit and thus is a problem for many including renters. These extra costs, especially if you need to pay someone, usually add up to more than just buying the PatioLockTM model in the first place.
4. If you have security screens fitted and you buy a screen door adapter, then it is often possible to remove the hook lock from the right security screen door and transfer this into a screen door adapter (screwing required for this step).
5. If you have double-glazed or sound proof thick commercial type frames, then please check the glass sliding door frame that the handle is screwed on to is approximately 3cm or less thick (ie., internal timber doors are approx. 4cm thick). If your frames are thicker than 30mm, then please send through pictures of your locks and frames (ideally with a ruler in the pictures) and we can take a look and let you know options for locking and functioning. The screen door adapter won’t work if the glass door frames are thicker than approximately 32mm.
How do I lock my glass sliding door that has internal type locks?
1. If screwing and handy skills are an option then the base model pet door insert with a screen door adapter can still work provided: the screw that fixes the hook into the channel in the wall frame that the glass door locks on to is between 8-12mm from the inside edge of the channel closest to the inside of the house to the centre of the screw. Please check the picture below for measurement reference. Handy skills & screwing involved to transfer the catcher:
2. If screwing etc is not an option due to the 8-12mm guide not being met, then a rod cut to length and placed in the floor track behind the sliding glass door can be used to lock/wedge the sliding door into the pet door OR fitting a patio bolt ($20 from hard wares but screwing involved) can pin the glass door against the pet door.
Will the pet door for sliding door work with multiple or stacker sliding glass doors?
Stacker doors are usually expensive and so the PatiolockTM model is recommended to avoid drilling holes in your frames. This is for aluminium sliding door frames that are approximately 3cm or thinner like most common sliding doors (ie the thickness of the aluminium frame that the door handle is screwed on to is 30mm or less in thickness). If your frames are thicker than this, please send us pictures and we can advise you.
The only issue with multiple or stacker doors is that they have deeper frames due to the extra sliding panel/s compared to a single sliding door system. The screen door adapter is only 10cm deep as it is made to suit common sliding doors and thus it will not extend out far enough to also capture the screen door (if you have one).
If you prefer to use your screen door then some modification to the screen door adapter is needed. A popular approach is to buy a section of rubber or aluminium (e.g., 100x3mm) and stick or rivet it on to the rear of the adapter so that it extends out to touch the screen door. Alternatively, some 1.2mm thick galvanised sheet metal could be cut and folded into an 'L' shape by a local sheet metal company (e.g., 130mm x 15mm x adapter length) and joined to the back of the screen door adapter using rivets/screws. This will create a third channel that can capture the screen door. We suggest powder coating it or spraying it to match the pet door with a spray pack from a paint or hard ware store. Please ensure you understand this mod is required to use your screen door before ordering.
My sliding doors are double glazed, will the patio pet door still work?
Double-glazed sliding doors with a frame thickness of approximately 30mm or less (ie., the frame the door handle is screwed on to is 3cm thick or less) will typically work.
If the frame is thicker than 32mm then the screen door adapter will not work (do not purchase it with the pet door in this case). Thicker frames (thicker than 32mm) can also cause a problem for lock alignment with the PatiolockTM pet door for sliding doors. If alignment is an issue due to the extra thickness of your sliding door then you can add a section of 20mm aluminium channel ($3 from hard wares) to the bottom of the temporary pet door frame to bring the pet door closer to the inside of the house so that the locks align. Handy skills adn tools are needed to add the 20mm aluminium channel.
If the sliding door frames are thicker than 32mm then you can also get the base model pet door on its own if budget is an issue and use a rod in the floor track or patio bolt to lock the glass door against the pet door.
How do locks transfer using the Base Model with a Screen Door Adapter?
Hardware to fix the pet door insert into the wall frame is included. We also have pre-drilled holes hidden inside the top panel of the dog door for sliding doors so that it can also be fixed inside the top track for a second fixing point to create a stronger installation.
Refer to the picture below to see the grey bracket (for demo purposes) half way up the right side of the temporary pet door. The bracket comes powder coated the same colour as the pet door. The screw up inside the top panel is concealed.
The catch plate the glass door locks on to is then transferred from the wall frame (you can see the gap in the paint where it was originally located) onto the edge of the screen door adapter as per the second picture below. Handy skills and screwing and tools are needed to do this. Cutting is also involved if you buy the non-adjustable screen door adapter:
Will the dog door for sliding doors work with timber sliding doors?
Yes, our doggie doors for sliding doors can still be used in timber sliding doors but there are a few points to be aware of. First, because timber door frames are much thicker than aluminium sliding doors the screen door adapter will not work. So, you would just be buying a pet door insert on its own (no screen door adapter).
To lock the door is another factor. The PatiolockTM model can usually lock timber doors but sometimes some mods are needed to shift the locks closer to the edge of the pet door if the door handle on the timber door is more than approximately 13mm back from the leading edge of the timber sliding door frame (ie., more than 13mm back from the edge that closes into the wall).
Can the dog door for sliding doors be fitted into the fixed panel of glass behind the sliding door?
Some customers have tried to shift the fixed panel across to fit the pet door there instead of in the opening. However, most have not been able to successfully remove all the screws to do this. Moreover, the opening space remains the same regardless of which side the pet door is put so the benefit appears to be negligible compared to fitting the temporary pet door with a screen door adapter. The other limitation with this approach is creating a good seal can be difficult as the screen door adapter can't be used at the back of the door frame.
Can the dog door for sliding doors be installed in the screen door track?
Not usually because the dog door for sliding door frame is too fat/thick to fit inside the typically narrow channel in the wall frame that screen doors close in to. If you want to use your screen door just purchase the screen door adapter with your pet door insert, that way, you can lock your glass door and use your screen door. If you just put a flap in the screen door you always have to leave the door open to let your pet in/out and this is not only a security risk but it gets very cold in winter!
If I want to get the Base model because I am handy and happy to screw holes, etc, then do I need the screen door adapter?
Yes. If you want the base model to lock, then you need the screen door adapter to transfer the existing sliding door lock mechanisms on to. You can't do this without the screen door adapter as the catch plate needs to be offset past the pet door frame. This is the old method of transferring existing locks which involves the screwing, handy skills, tools, etc and is fine for people who are not fussed about leaving holes and also have access to someone handy with tools and own the house (so they are able to leave holes).
What if my screen door is on the inside track and the glass door is on the outer track?
The PatiolockTM dog door for sliding doors can still lock the glass door without screwing (refer lock compatibility section in the checklist steps) but you will not be able to fit the Screen Door Adapter if the glass door is in the outside track. You will need to leave your screen door (if you have one) level with the pet door frame to minimise the gap for insects/air.
If you want to use both your glass door and screen door when the doors have been put in backwards (glass door on outside), then the Base Model Pet Door Insert with a Screen Door Adapter can be used but you would need to transfer the locks from the wall frame on to the screen door adapter. This step involves handy skills and tools and screwing.
Are gaps common if the dog door for sliding door is fitted without a screen adapter?
It is common for sliding door frames to be ‘out of square’ but this is not usually noticed because the glass door slides into a channel in the wall which hides any gaps. The screen door adapter also creates a channel for the glass door to close in to which not only makes it more secure but also hides gaps between the pet door insert frame and the sliding door frame.
So, if you bought a pet door without a screen door adapter you can either buy one and add it to the pet door or you can try and shuffle the pet door for sliding doors around to be flush with the sliding glass frame and/or adjust the rollers on the sliding door to change the pitch/angle the sliding door rolls on to close any gaps. For instance, dropping the front wheel of the sliding door will close a gap at the top of the sliding door. A weather seal is included with the pet door to help with small gaps. If you have bigger gaps and are not able to adjust the rollers then an extra strip of seal can be bought from hardwares cheaply (e.g., 12mm square soft foam).
How wide are the dog door for sliding door panels?
The TOTAL width of the temporary pet doors are outlines below.
Medium = 32.2cm
Large = 37.2cm
Extra Large = 49.2cm
Can I order my dog door for sliding doors in a custom colour?
Sorry, we no longer do custom colours due to high one-off costs.
Do pet doors for sliding doors fit tightly inside the wall frame?
There is a great deal of variation in sliding door frame sizes (12-40+mm). The doggie doors for sliding doors locate themselves over the ridge in the floor track that the rollers for the sliding door run on, so they are able to move some millimetres back and forth. This is normal and is not a structural/functional problem because the pet door inserts are designed to be a stationary product that sits inside the floor track, wall frame and top track, so they can't go anywhere and are not pushed and pulled. We are the only manufacturer to include holes inside the top panel of the pet door which allows an extra fixing point in case you want to firm up the installation. You could also use the bracket provided half way up the pet door but this is not really necessary, as noted, the pet door can not go anywhere.
What model sliding door dog door best suits a laundry vs a main living room?
The PatioLockTM pet door insert with a screen door adapter is recommended for home owners and/or renters who want to install a pet door for sliding doors into a main living area because it does not involve the screwing and cutting and tools etc and can also be re-used if you move.
People who are wanting to put the dog door for sliding doors in a laundry and are not bothered about using the laundry door for human traffic and weather and bug proofing are not an issue then the cheapest solution is our base model pet door without a adapter. You will just need to come up with a way to lock the glass door such as cutting a rod and putting it in the floor track behind the glass door or fit a patio bolt or buy the PatiolockTM model without an adapter (if the door is not to be used for human traffic).
Should I buy the PatioLockTM Model or the Base Model pet door insert?
The PatioLockTM system is smarter and easier choice for people who want to save time and hassle and do not want to screw holes in their frames nor cut and drill to gain security.
The additional cost of the PatiolockTM model compared to our base model is less than half installation charges from a handyman service. One of the additional benefits is that you can re-use the PatioLockTM pet door for sliding doors when you move home as everything is adjustable. It truly does offer the ultimate in security and convenience.
However, if you know someone handy and you own your home and screwing holes is not an issue and you have lots of time on your hands (usually 2-3 hours to install the base model), then you would be happy with our base model dog door for sliding doors with a screen door adapter fitted to be able to transfer the existing locks.
So how does our Patented PatioLock dog door for sliding doors lock without screwing?
As outlined, our Patented PatioLockTM pet door insert has its own set of adjustable locks that lock onto your existing sliding door lock mechanisms. One side of the pet door insert locks into the catch plate on the wall and the other side has a lock that your sliding door handle hooks in to. This means: No screwing; No fuss; No tools; No skills; No holes; No extra installation costs :)
Finally, Security with Convenience and a Modern Design. Also, because the PatiolockTM system is fully adjustable you can keep using it if/when you move. Again, without the holes and hassles.
Our Patented Adjustable Screen Door Adapter can be added to the pet door to enhance security for the glass door AND also allow use of your fly/security screen door without cutting or handy skills.
Is the Base Model a good option if you are on a budget and/or are not bothered by screwing/cutting/drilling?
Our Base Model pet door insert is a great and cheaper dog door for sliding doors option. It is suitable for those who own their own homes and are handy and not bothered by cutting, drilling and screwing to transfer lock mechanisms on to a screen door adapter (to lock the glass and screen/security doors).
Our base model pet door for sliding doors is also suitable for those on a tight budget as pets can get expensive. You can order the base model pet door on its own and just cut the rod that is included with every pet door to length to wedge the glass door against the pet door. This way no extra locks/brackets/packs etc needed to crudely but effectively lock the glass door against the pet door. The base model pet door on its own (no screen door adapter) is best suited to laundry door installations whereby the extra benefits of buying a screen door adapter are not as critical. For instance, the convenience of using existing locks transferred onto a screen door adapter is not as important as the laundry door is not often used frequently, weather/bug proofing are not as critical as the laundry door can be closed, seamless joins and hidden gaps are not as important in the laundry compared to the living area which is seen all the time.
For more info on the cheaper Base Model option, click here or on the buy now below:
CLICK below to BUY your own PatioLockTM Pet Door:
Why buy your dog door for your sliding door from Modern Pet Doors?
1. Our PatioLockTM system is the only patio pet door to offer SECURITY with CONVENIENCE: No other pet door for sliding doors can lock the sliding door without screwing, cutting, tools or skills for almost instant security without the hassles and installation costs/time of the conventional systems (e.g., our Base Model). Our Adjustable Security Adapter is also the only adjustable adapter (patent pending) so you can install it without tools and also re-use at the next property - great for renters!
2. Quality: We over-engineered our patio pet doors so we can easily offer an Industry Leading 10 year warranty on our doors. We stand behind our product. Note some other brands only offer 1-5 year warranty periods - we wonder about the quality with such limited warranties- do you?
2. Great Value: We offer a Supreme product at truly wholesale pricing that INCLUDES delivery to most major cities/areas (refer shipping section for details).
3. True Security+: The PatioLockTM system with a Screen Door Adapter is class leading and uses existing locks without screwing etc. So, you won't need to buy extra 'security pack' gimmicks and brackets at checkout that are not needed in light of the PatioLock model features.
4. 100% 5 Star Independent Customer Feedback: We have over 1000 'independent' 5/5 Star 100% customer satisfaction reviews on independent sites like EBay (user ID is juru73). Despite other brands claims, this is nearly twice the amount of positive feedback and volume compared to other manufacturers.
5. Two distribution outlets: We are the only manufacturer with more than one distribution outlet to reduce delivery lead times to the entire East and West coast of Australia.
6. Giving Back: Proceeds from every sale go towards supporting a variety of charities including the Guide Dogs for the Blind; Work dogs for kids with Autism and Asberger's; Salvation Army; and Animal Rescue centres. So your purchase is also helping others.
What payment options are there?
Help contribute to our four legged friends and children...
Just in case social justice and sharing is important to you, we thought we would let you know that every sale helps us to continue to sponsor:
- Guide Dogs for the Vision Impaired. We currently sponsor 'Buddy' and 'Olive' in their training program.
- Guide Dogs for children with Austism Spectrum Challenges
- Animal rescue centres
- Salvation Army
Our patio pet door will fit your sliding glass door seamlessly. Pets also find it easy to use..check out the clip below!
Check our Daisy & friends using their new pet door!
Watch the clip below to see how the PatioLockTM system works and why it saves you a lot of hassles - it goes for 9 minutes but it is very informative :)
To get your own PatioLockTM Pet Door click below: