Projects for Pets: what a handyman does
A handyman can install screw-in pet gates, repair trim and doors that pets have scratched, and fit a pet door where the door allows it. Pet doors go in doors or non-structural spots, never through load-bearing framing. Fencing is outside what we do.
Jobs we take on
Tap one to add it to your list.
- Install screw-mounted pet gates in doorways and hallways
- Fill, sand and repaint scratched door bottoms and door frames
- Replace chewed or clawed baseboard, casing and corner trim
- Fit a self-framing pet door in an interior door, following the maker's template
- Fit a pet door in a solid exterior door where the door suits it
- Anchor tall scratching posts and cat shelves so they do not tip or shift
- Add latches to cabinets and drawers that pets learn to open
- Repair torn window screens so a pet cannot push through
Signs it is time to call
- Gouges along the bottom of a door or the door frame
- Baseboard or trim corners that are chewed or shredded
- A gate that a pet pushes loose or squeezes past
- A pet that waits at a door to be let out, and a door that would take a pet door
- Scratch marks on the casing or wall beside the spot where the pet is shut out
What is not a handyman job
Fencing, invisible fence systems and yard work are out of scope. We do not cut pet doors through exterior walls, masonry or load-bearing framing. Electronic pet doors that need new wiring go to a licensed electrician. Behavior problems such as constant scratching or chewing go to your vet or an animal behaviorist.
Plumbing, electrical and roofing go to licensed independent contractors.
What a visit looks like
- We look at the door or trim in person, because core type and damage depth decide whether a repair or replacement makes sense.
- For a pet door, we use the manufacturer's size and template and confirm the cut location with you before cutting.
- We ask about your pet's size and habits so gates and latches are strong enough.
- We clean up sawdust and dust before leaving.
Common questions
Can any door take a pet door?
Not always. Pet door makers note that interior doors are often hollow core and exterior doors usually solid core, and that hollow doors need a self-framing model. We follow the manufacturer's instructions for your door and will not cut structural framing. We check the door in person first.
Can I use a pet gate to keep a toddler off the stairs?
No. The CPSC says pet gates should never be used as child safety gates. For the top of stairs, use only a gate that screws to the wall and meets current child safety standards. We can mount that kind of gate.
How do I stop my cat from scratching my trim?
The ASPCA says to teach cats where to scratch rather than try to stop it. Offer sturdy posts in varied materials, and cover the spots they like with double-sided tape or a vinyl runner. We can anchor posts and repair the trim afterward.
Can you repair deep scratches in a door?
Often. Shallow scratches can be filled, sanded and repainted. Deep gouges in a hollow door or damaged edges may call for a patch or a replacement door. We look at it before recommending either one.