Step 7: The spreader bar is generally installed on the side of the screen mesh opposite the spline. On the
same side of the screen fabric as the pet door, carefully insert the spreader bar into the frame opening of
the screen door, sliding the curved portion of the aluminum clips over and onto the edge of the raceway on
the screen door. Depending on what type of
screen door you are installing in (i.e. a sliding
screen door on a patio door), you may have to
work at getting one end of the spreader bar
positioned correctly. Take care not to push the
end of the spreader bar through the screen
material if there is a slight obstruction where you
are working.
NOTE: Depending on the exact construction of
your screen door and the placement of your
screen fabric and screen spline in relation to the
pet door, the next instructions may be done in
reverse order. If it is easier to complete the
installation and then put the screen spline back in
place, feel free to do so.
Step 8: Making sure the screen mesh is taut, carefully push the screen spline
back into place. The easiest method for this is to use a screen spline roller.
However, you can use a screwdriver or other flat tool to accomplish this if you
do not have a screen spline roller. The pressure from the screen spline against
the edges of the screen raceway will hold the aluminum clip firmly in place
against the screen frame on both edges.
Step 9: Slide one metal retainer over the top
edge of the pet door screen spline frame. This
retainer should be close to the outer corner of
the pet door. Slide the second metal retainer
onto the pet door frame approximately halfway
between the exterior corner and the edge of the
pet door attached to the screen door. (This second retainer will provide
added stability but its positioning is not critical. Anywhere along the top
edge of the pet door is acceptable.) If desired, you can attach the retainers
on the top edge near each corner. The exact placement depends on your
screen door and the size of pet door you are installing. When you are happy
with the placement of the retainers, carefully push the spreader bar down
flush against the top of the pet door. The edge of the retainer clip with the hole should be alongside the
edge of the spreader bar parallel to the pet door.
View of both sides of screen door with
aluminum clips over raceway.
Interior and Exterior view of metal retainer clips attached to pet door and resting against spreader bar.
