Photo Credit: Pella
Creating a safe and comfortable space for pets is a top priority for many homeowners with a furry friend. There are several ways that windows and doors can contribute to and even elevate pets’ comfort and well-being. We connected with experts Elizabeth Flaspohler, Senior Copywriter from Pella and Eric Dotson, Director of Category Management, from Therma-Tru on how builders can bring pet-friendly spaces to life.
Photo Credit: Therma-Tru
The Key for Selecting Doors, Windows and Skylights? Durability.
When creating a pet-friendly home, it’s all about balancing durability, functionality, and style. You want products that can withstand the ups-and-downs of pet life without compromising a home’s aesthetic.
Consider the quality and durability of your windows, doors, and screens. Pets can be curious and sometimes clumsy, especially in their younger age, so choosing products that can handle scratches and everyday wear and tear is crucial.
“Durability of a product is the primary consideration for any window or door in a pet-friendly space. Homeowners should make sure their windows, doors and screens can handle the scratches from a pet.”
– Elizabeth Flaspohler, Senior Copywriter from Pella
Photo Credit: Therma-Tru
Create Pet-Friendly Indoor-Outdoor Access
Seamless indoor-outdoor transitions are essential for pets who love to explore. Wide doorlites and expansive glass doors create perfect pet-friendly transitions. These doors not only offer breathtaking views but also provide easy access.
Folding doors that can be combined with sheer screens are another great option. These screens glide open and shut and promote fresh air circulation while keeping insects and debris out, providing a safe and comfortable environment for pets.
“When creating a pet-friendly home, a key consideration is being able to prioritize durability and functionality without sacrificing style. Opt for doors with vented sidelites, which provide natural ventilation while allowing fresh air for your pets.”
– Eric Dotson, Director of Category Management at Therma-Tru
Photo Credit: Pella
Consider These Additional Pet-Safety Features
Some features that can help create a safer environment for your furry companions includes cordless, between-the-glass blinds and shades and between-the-glass grilles.
Conventional blinds with dangling cords are a significant safety hazard for pets, who can become entangled and injured. Opting for cordless, between-the-glass blinds and shades eliminates that risk. Additionally, placing the blinds and shades between the panes of glass protects them from damage caused by playful paws and curious explorations.
Often, pets are curious about the outside world, and this curiosity can lead to damage to window grilles. Standard grilles can be bent or broken by pets attempting to look out the window. Between-the-glass grilles are sealed between the windowpanes. This protects the grilles from damage and prevents pets from being able to damage them or hurt themselves.
Photo Credit: Pella
Balancing Functionality, Safety and Aesthetic
Your next home project does not have to sacrifice aesthetics when adding pet-friendly features. It’s all about finding the right balance between functionality and style.
Many window and door manufacturers offer a wide range of styles, finishes and features, allowing customization for a client’s aesthetic while ensuring their pet’s needs are met.
By considering these factors, you can create a harmonious living space that caters to unique style and a pet’s well-being. Partner with one of our trusted manufacturers to help you bring your client’s vision to life: https://www.openuptoperformance.com/manufacturers/
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