How to Easily Pet Proof Your RV Screen Door
It’s essential to pet-proof your RV screen door to avoid unexpected mishaps and damage. Unfortunately, pets and RV screen doors don’t always play nice. Those enthusiastic paws and sharp claws can lead to a bit of trouble. They spot a squirrel or a fellow pet, and next thing you know, you’re left with a busted RV screen door. Oops!
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How Do I Pet Proof My RV Screen Door?
Luckily, there are several ways to pet-proof your RV screen door, ensuring it stays intact and serves you well on your adventures. Let’s explore some of the best RV pet screen door protectors, including a few DIY options for those who love getting hands-on!
Lippert Screen Defender
The Lippert Screen Defender is not only a popular choice among pet owners but is also our personal favorite. This product offers robust protection with its powder-coated, heavy-duty aluminum frame, specially designed to fit seamlessly into the existing channels of Lippert screen doors. It serves as an additional safeguard against your pet’s curiosity and prevents them from scratching or pushing through the screen.
Available in four sizes – 24”, 26”, 28”, and 30”, it’s crucial to follow Lippert’s measuring instructions to ensure a perfect fit for your screen door. The best part is that this is an easy RV upgrade, as it installs quickly without the need for any extra hardware. However, it’s worth noting that the Screen Defender won’t be an option if your RV doesn’t have a Lippert screen door.
- PERFECT FIT — Refer to the measuring instructions, chart, and video to find the correct size. Note: The actual length of the Screen Defender will always be shorter than the listed “size,” which corresponds to your door’s rough opening size. Door must be equipped with a kick panel for full compatibility with Screen Defender
- ADDED PROTECTION — This is an easy solution to keeping your pets safely inside your RV and it helps protect your Lippert entry door from damage caused by your furry camping companion
- STYLISH DESIGN — The black, powder-coated aluminum screen looks great with any Lippert entry door
- DURABILITY — The solid aluminum screen is constructed with the same, reliable materials as the Lippert entry door frame
- EASY UPGRADE — Installing directly into your screen door’s existing channels, no additional hardware or materials are required
Camco RV Screen Door Deluxe Grille
If you’re looking for an adjustable solution to protect your RV’s screen door, the Camco RV Screen Door Deluxe Grille is a top contender. Crafted from heavy-duty aluminum, this grille not only offers durability but also adjustable width, accommodating screen doors ranging from 20 inches to 32 inches in size. The package includes installation hardware, making it convenient and hassle-free to set up.
- Durable Screen Door: Transform your RV door with a robust, reinforced feel deluxe screen door grille that minimizes the need for costly screen repairs
- Fit for Any Screen Door: Adjustable up to 20 to 32 inches, ensuring an excellent fit for various RV screen doors
- Easy Installation: Comes with all necessary hardware for a quick and easy installation, getting you road-ready in no time
- Built to Last: Crafted from durable aluminum, this grille is designed to withstand the rigors of travel for long-lasting use
- Safety for Kids and Pets: Provides a reliable barrier that prevents children and pets from accidentally pushing through the screen; Dimensions (L x W x H): 22.5 x 20.31 x 1.25 inches
Duo-Pets RV Screen Door Protector
The Duo-Pets RV Screen Door Protector is an innovative solution that offers an easy and budget-friendly way to safeguard your RV screen door from potential pet damage. This protector, made from durable plastic, is designed to fit all RV screen doors and can be easily trimmed to size with standard scissors. The adorable paw print design and ventilation holes add a touch of style and functionality.
The installation kit, including double-sided tape, makes setup a breeze. It’s a convenient, USA-made solution that ensures your pets and your RV screen door coexist harmoniously. Stick it on, trim it to fit, and continue your RV adventures with peace of mind.
- Designed to be compatible with all RV screen doors, you can trim this screen protector to fit with standard scissors. Dimensions: 24 inch x 27 inch
- Installation Kit included – no hardware needed
- Customizable Sizing for all RV Screen Doors
- Made in the USA
DIY Pet Proof RV Screen Door Protectors
If you prefer a hands-on approach, you can consider one of these do-it-yourself solutions.
Plexiglass
When it comes to DIY pet-proofing, plexiglass is a versatile and effective choice. To get started, measure the dimensions of the bottom of your screen door, then cut a piece of plexiglass to match. Once cut to size, attach it securely with screws to the door frame (or attach with velcro for a non permanent solution).
The beauty of plexiglass is that it creates a transparent barrier that allows natural light to filter through, maintaining a bright and airy feel inside your RV. The down side is that plexiglass can easily get smudged up from your dog’s nose requiring more cleaning. If you’re looking for instructions, this post walks you through step by step on how to add your own plexiglass to your RV screen door.
- CLEAR ACRYLIC SHEET-QUALITY PET SHEET PANELS – If you are only after specific features of acrylic sheets including high clarity, flexibility, and impact strength, then PET sheets are perfect for you. It has several of the advantages of acrylic sheets without the hazards and high cost. Stronger and harder, these 24 inches by 36 inches 0.06” Thick PET sheets are perfect for wide and varied applications. Just don’t forget to remove the protective film on both sides of the PET sheets before use
- PROTECT ART and PHOTOGRAPHS: Slip into your 24 x 36 picture frames to protect treasured photos, prints and artwork! It’s the perfect thickness to offer protection, while still fitting perfectly between the photo and frame
- VERSATILE USE PET PLASTIC SHEETS – Are you working on an indoor project that needs panels the clarity of glass minus its breakability? PET sheets make a perfect glass alternative for printed signs, picture and poster frames, framed counter barrier, and pet balcony railing barrier
- CUT, SAW, AND DRILL – Easy handling is one of the PET sheets’ advantages. Just like other plastic sheets, PET sheets are easy to cut using power saws or even a regular hand saw! With this thickness, it’s even easier to score PET sheets using a utility knife or a die-cut machine. Different Cricut machines accept PET sheets as suitable mediums. And with the capability to drill or punch holes easily on these 24″ x 36″ PET sheets, you can produce durable and professional-level projects in no time
Decorative Aluminum Sheets
Adding a touch of style and reinforcement to your RV screen door is a breeze with decorative aluminum sheets. These sheets can be easily attached to the lower part of your screen door. Beyond the practical advantage of protecting the screen from pet-related damage, these aluminum sheets can elevate the aesthetics of your RV.
These sheets can be found at home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot and come in various designs and patterns, allowing you to personalize your RV door while keeping your pet in check. Here’s an excellent example of how you can make your own screen protector with aluminum mesh sheets.
- Aluminum
- Use for general indoor or outdoor projects
- 24 in. W x 36 in. L x .020 in. D
- Black
- Union Jack Design
Pet-Proof Window Screen
If your pet has a knack for scratching and damaging window screens, consider replacing the standard screen with a pet-proof variety. These specialized screens are designed to withstand the wear and tear that pets can inflict. They are more resistant to tears and punctures, providing an extra layer of security while allowing you to enjoy the view and fresh air without worry.
If you decide to go this route we’d suggest combining it with one of the other methods for pet-proofing your RV screen door!
- 【Heavy Duty Pet Window Screen】：The upgraded screen mesh is specially designed for pets, thicker and more durable than regular fiberglass screen mesh, Pet and other wildlife couldn’t scratch.
- 【Window Screen Mesh Function】Thick charcoal black mesh prevents pets from biting and tearing, but it has good visibility, good circulation of fresh air, keeps annoying creatures out.
- 【Window Screen Mesh Advantage】:Our Pet-proof screen also has anti-wrinkle screen material features, flexible and durable. Reinforced PVC coated polyester material, Anti sunlight exposure, not afraid of rain, long service life.
How to Replace an RV Screen Door that was Damaged by a Pet
In some cases, despite your best efforts, your pet may manage to damage your RV screen door. When this happens, it’s important to know how to replace or repair it
- Measure and Remove: Measure the dimensions of your damaged screen door and remove it from its frame carefully.
- Purchase a Replacement Screen: Purchase a new screen that matches the dimensions of your old one. Ensure it’s a pet-resistant screen if you’re worried about future damage.
- Reassemble: Carefully reassemble the new screen into the door frame. You may need a spline roller and spline cord to secure the screen properly.
- Secure Your Pet-Proof Solution: If you’ve opted for a pet-proof solution like the ones mentioned earlier, make sure to install it properly to avoid further damage.
Additional Tips for Pet Proofing Your RV Screen Door
While safeguarding your RV screen door is essential, it’s equally important to consider a couple of additional precautions to prevent your pet from accidentally slipping out the door.
Strategic Handle Placement: RV screen doors typically lack a locking mechanism, making them susceptible to being opened by pets. To prevent accidental escapes, one smart move is to pull the outside foldable grab handle over the screen door.
This not only keeps your pet inside but can also serve as an effective barrier against curious toddlers or small children attempting to open the screen door. From the inside simply slide the plastic piece over, reach out and pull the handle in and then slide it back in place.
- VERSATILE INDOOR & OUTDOOR GRAB BAR: Stromberg Carlson’s Lend A Hand Assist Rail is perfect for RV screen door handle grab bars. It offers stability and security for steps, stairs, and various settings, enhancing your safety and peace of mind during outdoor adventures.
- SAFETY AND SECURITY: Prioritize your safety with Stromberg Carlson’s Lend A Hand Assist Rail. From grab bars for stairs to RV door latch extenders and doorway assist handles, our products ensure a worry-free experience, making every adventure safer and more enjoyable.
- DURABLE DESIGN: The Stromberg Carlson Lend A Hand Assist Rail is built to last with top-quality materials and features a comfortable foam grip. Ideal for RV entrance doors, camper stair stabilizers, and travel trailer handles, it delivers long-lasting performance, ensuring reliability and security in every use.
- LEFT-HAND MOUNTING: Designed for left-hand mounting applications, this RV hand rail is versatile for various RV configurations. If mounted on the right side, additional backing may be required for secure installation.
- OUTDOOR CONVENIENCE: Enhance your outdoor adventures with Stromberg Carlson’s Lend A Hand handrails. Ideal for camper entry door handles, RV handrails for outdoor steps, and auto assist handle bars, our products add convenience, making every trip more accessible and enjoyable.
Pet Gates: Creating designated pet-friendly areas within your RV is a wise approach. Installing pet gates can help establish boundaries and ensure your furry friend stays in approved zones. Placing a pet gate in front of the screen door adds an extra layer of defense, making it less likely for your pet to make a quick exit when the screen door is in use.
Protect and Pet Proof Your RV Screen Door
So, there you have it – the key to successfully pet-proofing your RV screen door and ensuring your furry friends stay safe and secure inside your home on wheels. Traveling with pets is an absolute blast, and with a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy every moment without worrying about potential RV screen door damage and mishaps!
Have you stumbled upon a clever way to keep your pets from damaging your RV door screen? Share your tips and stories with us in the comments below!
Don’t forget to check out our post on Tips for RV Travel with Dogs and Must Haves for RV Camping with Dogs!
Happy travels,
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