Expert GlassRepair
AboutContact
(703) 679-7741Free Estimate
Call NowFree Estimate

Ready for Premium Glass Service?

Get a free, no-obligation estimate from the DMV's most trusted glass experts.

Get a Free Estimate(703) 679-7741
Expert Glass RepairRepair & Installation -- Arlington, VA

DMV's most trusted glass experts since 2004. Premium residential & commercial glass repair, replacement, and installation serving Washington DC, Maryland & Northern Virginia.

(703) 679-7741

Available Now -- 24/7 Emergency

Fully Insured -- Serving DC, MD & VA

4.9/ 5
847+ verified reviews
Licensed
Insured
24/7 Emergency

Business Hours

Mon - Fri7 AM - 8 PM
Saturday8 AM - 6 PM
Sunday9 AM - 5 PM
Emergency24 / 7 / 365

Email

info@expertglassrepair.com

Headquarters

Arlington, Virginia

Serving DC, MD & Northern VA

FREE

Free Estimate

No-obligation quote

Our Services

  • Residential Glass
  • Commercial Glass
  • Emergency Glass Repair
  • Windows
  • Foggy Window Repair
  • Window Replacement
  • Shower Doors
  • Mirror Installation
  • Glass Railings
  • Patio Doors
  • Storefront Glass
  • Glass Door Repair
  • Skylight Repair
  • Office Partitions
  • Board-Up Services
  • Glass Fabrication
  • Custom Glass Cutting
View all services

Glass Types

  • Tempered Glass
  • Laminated Glass
  • Low-E Glass
  • Insulated Glass
  • Soundproof Glass
  • Privacy Glass
  • Impact-Resistant
  • Decorative Glass
  • Tinted Glass
  • Low-Iron Glass
  • Frosted Glass
  • Float Glass
  • Wired Glass
  • Mirror Glass
All glass types

Resources

  • Glass Types
  • Tools Hub
  • Guides Hub
  • Gallery
  • Blog
  • FAQ
  • Glass Calculator
  • Shower Configurator
  • 3D Shower Designer

Cost Guides

  • Window Replacement Cost
  • Shower Door Cost
  • Glass Repair Cost
  • Mirror Installation Cost
  • Glass Railing Cost
  • Patio Door Cost
  • Storefront Glass Cost
  • Skylight Installation Cost
  • Glass Partition Cost
  • Emergency Glass Cost

Doors

  • All Door Services
  • Automatic Doors
  • Storm Doors
  • Door Closers
  • Patio Doors
  • Glass Door Repair
  • Commercial Door Repair
All door services

Service Areas

Northern Virginia

  • Arlington County
  • Fairfax County
  • Loudoun County

Washington DC

  • Washington, DC

Maryland

  • Montgomery County
  • Prince George's County
All service areas

Company

  • About Us
  • Why Choose Us
  • Contact
  • Reviews
  • Insurance Claims
  • How It Works
  • Careers
  • Warranty
  • Sustainability
  • Our Commitment

Savings

  • Current Specials
  • Military & First Responder Discount
  • Senior Discount (65+)
  • Referral Program
  • Free Estimate
  • Insurance Claims
  • Pricing

Guides

  • Guides Hub
  • Double Pane Windows
  • Emergency Glass Safety
  • Frameless Shower Doors
  • Glass Railing Guide
  • Energy Efficient Windows
  • Historic Preservation
  • Window Buying Guide
  • Choosing Shower Doors
  • Glass Safety Guide
  • Skylight Buying Guide
  • Commercial Glass Guide
Browse all guides

© 2026 Expert Glass Repair & Installation LLC. All rights reserved.

Fully Insured in DC, MD & VA · Arlington, Virginia

Privacy Policy·Terms of Service·Accessibility·Sitemap
Home/Glass Pet Doors
Pet-Friendly Glass Solutions

Glass Pet Door
Installation

Pet doors for sliding glass doors, French doors, and windows. Dog and cat door installation across Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland.

Give your Labrador yard access through your Arlington sliding glass door, install a cat door in your Bethesda French doors, or add a smart electronic pet door with microchip access in your McLean home. Custom tempered glass panels fabricated with pre-cut openings for a clean, permanent result.

Get Your Free Estimate (703) 679-7741

All Sizes

Cat to Giant

Smart

Electronic

Insulated

Dual Flap

Same Week

Install

Pet DoorPanelMagneticSeal
4.9 Rating
|Fully Insured|DC, Virginia & Maryland|Free Estimates

Most Popular Option

How Panel Inserts Work

The fastest way to add a pet door to your sliding glass door. No glass cutting, no replacement panels, and installation in under one hour. The insert slides into your existing track.

Main Glass PanelLocking PanelTempered GlassPet Door FlapMagnetic SealTrack System

Sliding Door Panel Insert Installation

A panel insert is a tall, narrow unit that fits into the track of your existing sliding glass door. The lower section contains the pet door flap opening, while the upper section is filled with tempered glass or aluminum. Your existing glass panel stays in place -- the insert simply occupies the space beside it.

  • Fits standard 6-foot-8 and 8-foot sliding door tracks
  • Adjustable height for non-standard track dimensions
  • Tempered glass fill panel above the pet door opening
  • Integrated locking mechanism secures the panel in the track
  • Weatherstripping on all edges prevents drafts and water
  • Remove the insert any time to restore original door function

Panel inserts are the most popular pet door solution for DMV homeowners with sliding glass patio doors. No construction mess, no lead time for glass fabrication, and fully reversible if you move or no longer need the pet door.

Premium Option

Custom Glass Panel Fabrication

For the cleanest, most permanent result, we fabricate a new tempered glass panel with the pet door opening pre-cut before tempering. The panel replaces your existing glass for a seamless integrated appearance.

Factory-Cut Tempered Glass Panels

Tempered glass cannot be cut or drilled after manufacturing -- it will shatter. That is why we fabricate a brand-new panel with the pet door cutout already made at the factory before the tempering process. The result is a clean, precise opening with polished edges that accepts the pet door frame perfectly.

  • Pet door opening cut before glass tempering for safety
  • Exact match to your existing frame dimensions and glass thickness
  • Available in single-pane, double-pane, and triple-pane configurations
  • Low-E coatings and argon gas fill options for insulated units
  • Pet door frame mounts flush to the glass for a clean profile
  • Works with sliding doors, French doors, hinged doors, and windows

Glass fabrication takes 5 to 10 business days. We measure your door, order the panel, and schedule installation for a single visit once the glass arrives. The old panel is removed and the new one installed in 2 to 3 hours.

Pre-CutOpeningTempered GlassPre-Cut OpeningPet Door FrameWeatherstrip Seal

Installation Options

Glass Pet Door Solutions

From quick panel inserts to custom tempered glass fabrication to smart electronic access, we offer every pet door solution for glass doors and windows.

Sliding Door Panel Inserts

A tall, narrow panel that fits into your existing sliding glass door track. The insert includes a pet door flap in the lower section and tempered glass or al...

  • No glass cutting required
  • Fits in existing door track
  • Removable when not needed
  • Available for standard and oversized tracks
  • Locking panel included for security
  • Installation in under one hour

Custom Glass Panel Replacement

We fabricate a new tempered glass panel with the pet door opening pre-cut before the glass is tempered.

  • Seamless integrated appearance
  • Factory-cut tempered glass
  • Fits any door or window frame
  • Insulated glass unit options
  • Most permanent installation method
  • Matches existing glass specifications

French Door Pet Doors

Pet doors integrated into one panel of a French door pair. The glass panel is replaced with a new tempered panel that includes the pet door opening.

  • Matches French door style
  • Single-panel replacement
  • Maintains door symmetry
  • Compatible with multi-point locks
  • Hardware finish coordination
  • Muntin pattern replication

Electronic Smart Pet Doors

Pet doors with microchip readers or RFID collar sensors that unlock only for your authorized pets. Electronic doors prevent strays, raccoons,

  • Microchip and RFID collar reading
  • Locks out unauthorized animals
  • Programmable access schedules
  • Multiple pet programming
  • Battery and hardwired power
  • Smartphone app control options

Smart Access

Electronic Pet Door Technology

Electronic pet doors use microchip readers and RFID collar sensors to grant access only to your authorized pets. Strays, raccoons, and neighborhood animals stay locked out.

SensorActiveDual FlapInsulatedMicrochip ScannerStatus LEDDual Insulated FlapsElectronic LockRFID Collar

How Smart Pet Doors Work

The electronic pet door contains a sensor that reads your pet's implanted microchip or a small RFID tag on their collar. When an authorized pet approaches, the door unlocks the flap. After entry, the door locks again automatically. Unauthorized animals get no response from the door -- it stays sealed.

Microchip Recognition

Reads the ISO 15-digit microchip already implanted by your veterinarian. No collar tag needed. Works with all standard pet microchips used in the United States.

RFID Collar Tags

Small, lightweight tags that attach to your pet's collar. Useful when microchip reading is unreliable or your pet is not microchipped. Replacement tags are inexpensive.

Programmable Schedules

Set time-based access for each pet individually. Keep the indoor cat locked in after dark. Allow the dog out during daytime hours only. Control via the door panel or smartphone app.

Multi-Pet Support

Program up to 32 individual pets on a single electronic door. Each pet gets their own access profile and schedule. Add or remove pets at any time through the control panel.

Give Your Pet the Freedom They Deserve

Schedule a free consultation. We measure your pet, assess your glass door, and recommend the best pet door solution for your home and your family.

Free Estimate (703) 679-7741

Size Guide

Pet Door Sizes for Every Pet

We measure your pet during the consultation to specify the exact door size. Here are the standard size categories and the breeds they accommodate.

Small6 x 6 inMedium10 x 15 inLarge12 x 18 inExtra Large14 x 20 in

Small (Cat / Small Dog)

Flap opening approximately 6 x 6 inches to 7 x 11 inches. Designed for cats and small dogs up to about 15 pounds -- breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Dachshunds, and most domestic cats. The smallest pet doors minimize the opening size for better energy efficiency and security. Ideal for DMV cat owners who want outdoor access.

Medium (Medium Dog)

Flap opening approximately 8 x 12 inches to 10 x 15 inches. Fits medium dogs from 15 to 40 pounds -- breeds like Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, French Bulldogs, Corgis, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. The most popular size range for DMV homeowners with family dogs.

Large (Large Dog)

Flap opening approximately 10 x 16 inches to 12 x 18 inches. Designed for large dogs from 40 to 80 pounds -- breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Standard Poodles, and Boxers. Requires a larger glass cutout and sturdier flap mechanism with reinforced hinges.

Extra Large (Giant Breed)

Flap opening approximately 14 x 20 inches or larger. Built for giant breeds over 80 pounds -- Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Mastiffs, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and large mixed breeds. Extra-large pet doors use reinforced flaps, heavy-duty hinges, and specialized frame construction to handle the size and weight.

Energy Performance

Pet Door vs. Cracked Open Door

Many pet owners leave the sliding door cracked open for their pet, wasting energy year-round. A sealed pet door with dual insulated flaps is dramatically more efficient.

Cracked Open DoorHeat lossCold draftWastefulSealed Pet DoorEfficient

Why a Pet Door Saves Energy

A sliding glass door cracked open 4 to 6 inches creates a continuous gap that allows conditioned air to escape and outdoor air to enter. Your HVAC system runs constantly trying to compensate. In the DMV climate with hot summers and cold winters, this costs hundreds of dollars per year in wasted energy.

  • Dual-flap insulated designs reduce air infiltration by 80 to 90 percent compared to an open gap
  • Magnetic seals pull both flaps closed automatically after each pet passage
  • Weatherstripping around the frame blocks drafts at every edge
  • Insulated flap material provides an R-value barrier when closed
  • The door opening is only exposed for the 2 to 3 seconds it takes your pet to pass through
  • Total annual energy savings can offset the cost of installation within the first year

Benefits

Why Install a Glass Pet Door?

Pet Independence

Your dog or cat can go outside and come back in on their own schedule. No more waiting by the door, scratching at glass, or waking you up at 5 AM for a morning bathroom trip. Pets with yard access to exercise, explore, and relieve themselves on demand are healthier and better behaved.

Glass Door Preservation

Pets that scratch at glass doors to go out cause permanent damage to the glass surface over time. Scratched glass is expensive to replace. A pet door eliminates the scratching behavior by giving your pet a dedicated passage, preserving your glass doors, frames, and weatherstripping.

Energy Efficiency

A pet door is far more energy-efficient than leaving a sliding glass door cracked open. Modern pet door flaps with dual-layer insulation and magnetic seals reduce air infiltration by 80 to 90 percent compared to an open gap. Your HVAC system works less with a sealed pet door than a propped-open slider.

Security Control

Electronic pet doors with microchip or RFID access prevent unauthorized animals and potential intruders from entering through the pet door opening. Locking panels provide manual security when the pet door is not in use. You maintain full control over who enters your home.

Multi-Pet Households

Program electronic pet doors for multiple pets with individual access schedules. Keep the indoor cat inside while the dog has yard access. Set daytime-only access for pets that should be indoors at night. Each pet gets customized freedom based on your household rules and safety requirements.

Professional Appearance

A professionally installed glass pet door looks clean and intentional rather than improvised. Custom glass panels with integrated pet door openings are virtually invisible from a distance. The installation maintains the aesthetic integrity of your home with no rough cuts or ill-fitting aftermarket panels.

Security & Access Control

Keeping Your Home Secure

Modern pet doors offer multiple layers of security to prevent unauthorized entry by wildlife, strays, and intruders while giving your pets the freedom they need.

Standard Pet DoorWildlife EntryElectronic Pet DoorAuthorized Only

Locking Cover Panels

Every pet door includes a slide-in or snap-on locking panel that completely blocks the pet door opening. Use the locking panel when you are away from home, during severe weather, or at night. The panel prevents unauthorized entry and provides an insulated seal when the door is not in use.

Electronic Microchip Access

Electronic pet doors read the ISO-standard microchip implanted in your pet by the veterinarian. The door unlocks only when your pet approaches and locks immediately after entry. No collar tag required -- the microchip is permanent, cannot fall off, and cannot be lost. Program up to 32 pets on one door.

RFID Collar Sensors

For pets without microchips or where microchip reading is unreliable, RFID collar tags provide reliable electronic access. The small tag attaches to your pet collar and communicates with the door sensor from several inches away. Replacement tags are inexpensive and readily available at pet supply stores.

Programmable Schedules

Set time-based access rules for each pet. Keep the indoor cat locked in after dark. Allow the dog out only during morning and evening hours. Timer-based schedules give you control over each pet outdoor access without remembering to manually lock and unlock the pet door throughout the day.

Wildlife Prevention

DMV homeowners near wooded areas face raccoon, opossum, and fox intrusion through pet doors. Electronic pet doors eliminate wildlife entry by requiring an authorized microchip or RFID tag. The door stays locked to all animals except your registered pets, protecting your home from unwanted visitors.

Intruder Deterrent

Concerned about security? Small and medium pet doors are too small for human entry. Large pet doors can be secured with reinforced locking panels and electronic locks. Some electronic pet doors include alarm integration that alerts you when the door is opened without authorization.

How We Work

Our Pet Door Installation Process

01

Pet Measurement

We measure your pet shoulder width and back height to determine the correct pet door size.

02

Glass Fabrication

For custom glass panel installations, we order a new tempered glass panel with the pet door cutout pre-made before tempering.

03

Installation

We remove the existing glass panel (if replacing), install the new glass with integrated pet door opening, mount the pet door frame and flap assembly,

04

Pet Training

We demonstrate how the pet door operates and provide tips for training your pet to use it confidently. Most dogs learn within a day or two with treat encouragement. Cats may take slightly longer. We ensure the flap swings freely, the magnetic seal engages properly, and any electronic features are programmed for all your pets.

Compatible Glass Types

Glass Doors We Install Pet Doors In

Sliding Glass Doors

The most common installation location for pet doors across the DMV. Options include panel inserts that fit in the existing track (no glass changes needed) or a custom replacement glass panel with the pet door opening pre-cut. Both single-slider and double-slider configurations are supported.

French Doors

Pet doors are installed in one panel of a French door pair. The glass is replaced with a new tempered panel that includes the pet door cutout. The pet door frame style and finish are selected to complement the French door hardware. Muntin patterns can be replicated on the replacement panel.

Single-Panel Glass Doors

Hinged glass doors in metal or wood frames can receive pet door panels. The existing glass is removed and replaced with a new tempered panel that includes the pet door opening. This approach works for back doors, basement doors, and any single glass panel in a frame throughout your home.

Window Panels

For homes without suitable glass doors, pet doors can be installed in window glass panels. A lower sash or fixed window panel is replaced with a new panel that includes the pet door. Window pet doors work well for cats and small dogs where a door installation is not practical or available.

Insulated Glass Units

Double-pane and triple-pane insulated glass doors can receive pet door panels. We fabricate insulated glass units with the pet door cutout integrated into the manufacturing process. The replacement IGU matches your existing glass specifications for thermal performance.

Patio Door Panels

Custom patio door panels with integrated pet doors replace a section of your existing patio door system. This option works for multi-panel patio doors, bi-fold door systems, and large-format sliding doors. The pet door panel matches your existing frame color, glass type, and hardware.

Care & Maintenance

Maintaining Your Pet Door

Flap Inspection

Inspect the pet door flap monthly for tears, cracks, or warping. The flap takes daily abuse from your pet pushing through it. Replace damaged flaps promptly to maintain the weather seal and insulation. Most manufacturers sell replacement flaps that install in minutes without tools.

Magnetic Seal Cleaning

Clean the magnetic seal strips on the pet door flap and frame quarterly. Dirt, pet hair, and debris accumulate on the magnets and reduce seal effectiveness. Wipe the magnets with a damp cloth to restore full contact and sealing force. A weak seal allows drafts and insects to enter.

Electronic Component Care

For electronic pet doors, replace batteries on the recommended schedule (typically every 6 to 12 months). Keep the microchip reader sensor clean. Test the locking mechanism monthly to ensure it engages and releases properly. Update firmware if your model supports app-based updates.

Weatherstrip Replacement

The weatherstripping around the pet door frame wears over time from daily use. Inspect weatherstripping annually and replace it when you see gaps, compression, or deterioration. Fresh weatherstripping maintains the energy efficiency and weather seal of your pet door installation.

Common Questions

Glass Pet Door FAQ

Can a pet door be installed in an existing glass door?
Tempered glass cannot be cut after manufacturing. We fabricate a new tempered glass panel with the pet door cutout pre-made before tempering, then replace your existing glass. Alternatively, a panel insert fits into the sliding door track without any glass changes -- the fastest and most affordable option.
What size pet door do I need for my dog?
The pet door flap should be at least 2 inches wider than your pet at the shoulders and 2 inches taller than the top of their back. Standard sizes range from small (6x6 inches for cats) to extra-large (14x20 inches for giant breeds). We measure your pet during the consultation for precise sizing.
Are glass pet doors energy-efficient?
Modern pet doors use dual-flap insulated designs, magnetic seals, and weather stripping that minimize air infiltration. Quality pet doors with insulated flaps reduce energy loss by 80 to 90 percent compared to an open hole. They are far more efficient than leaving a door cracked open for your pet.
Will a glass pet door compromise home security?
Quality pet doors include locking panels, keyed locks, and electronic access control. Electronic pet doors only open for your pet microchip or collar sensor and remain locked to strays, wildlife, and intruders. Small and medium pet doors are physically too small for human entry.
Can a pet door be installed in a sliding glass door without replacing the glass?
Yes, using a panel insert. The insert fits in the sliding door track alongside your existing glass panel. No glass cutting or replacement is required. The insert includes the pet door flap and fills the remaining space with tempered glass or aluminum. Installation takes under an hour.
Do electronic pet doors work with microchipped pets?
Yes. Electronic pet doors read your pet microchip implant or collar-mounted RFID sensor and unlock only for authorized pets. You can program multiple pets and set individual access schedules. The door stays locked to all unauthorized animals including strays and wildlife.
How long does pet door installation take?
Panel insert installations take 30 to 60 minutes. Custom glass panel replacements take 2 to 3 hours per door. Most installations are completed in a single visit. Glass fabrication requires 5 to 10 business days lead time before the installation appointment.
Can I install a pet door in a double-pane insulated glass door?
Yes. We fabricate insulated glass units with pet door cutouts pre-made during manufacturing. The replacement panel matches your existing double-pane specifications including thickness, spacer, and low-E coatings. The pet door opening is sealed to maintain insulating value.
What is the difference between a panel insert and a glass replacement pet door?
A panel insert slides into the existing track of your sliding glass door alongside your current glass -- no glass cutting required. Installation takes under an hour. A glass replacement involves fabricating a new tempered glass panel with the pet door opening pre-cut, then swapping it for your existing glass. The replacement provides a cleaner, more permanent look but requires 5 to 10 days fabrication lead time.
Do you install pet doors in windows?
Yes. For homes without suitable glass doors, we install pet doors in window panels. A lower sash or fixed window panel is replaced with a new tempered glass panel that includes the pet door opening. Window pet doors work well for cats and small dogs where a door installation is not practical. The window frame must be low enough for your pet to reach comfortably.

Service Areas

Glass Pet Door Installation Across the DMV

Northern Virginia

Arlington, McLean, Fairfax, Alexandria, Reston, Falls Church, Vienna, Herndon, Ashburn, Sterling, Leesburg, Manassas, Centreville, Woodbridge, Chantilly, Springfield

Northern Virginia homeowners with fenced yards in Arlington, McLean, and Fairfax are the primary market for glass pet doors. Sliding glass doors leading to backyards are the most common installation location. We measure your pet and your door on the same visit.

Maryland

Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, Rockville, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Columbia, Olney, Bowie, Laurel, Ellicott City, Annapolis, College Park, Germantown, Clarksville

Maryland pet owners in Bethesda, Potomac, and Chevy Chase with enclosed yards install glass pet doors for convenient pet access. French door pet door panels are popular in older homes with traditional door styles throughout Montgomery County.

Washington DC

Georgetown, Cleveland Park, Spring Valley, Foxhall, Palisades, Forest Hills, Tenleytown, Woodley Park, Kalorama, Capitol Hill, Brookland, Takoma, Petworth, Chevy Chase DC

DC homeowners with private yards in Northwest neighborhoods install glass pet doors for dogs and cats. Row houses with rear glass doors and townhomes with patio access are the typical installation settings. French door pet panels are popular in Capitol Hill and Georgetown.

Related Articles

Glass Door Security for Your Home

Keep your home safe with pet door-compatible security upgrades -- laminated glass, reinforced frames, and smart locks.

Tempered Glass Safety Codes in the DMV

Learn the tempered glass requirements for pet door installations in DC, Virginia, and Maryland homes.

Sliding Glass Door Maintenance Tips

Maintain your sliding glass door and pet door insert with cleaning, lubrication, and track care best practices.

Savings & Discounts

Current SpecialsMilitary & First Responder DiscountSenior DiscountReferral ProgramWhy Choose UsSpecials

Related Services

Patio Doors

Sliding patio door installation, repair, and glass replacement for residential and commercial properties.

Learn More

Glass Door Repair

Complete glass door repair including cracked glass, broken panels, and frame and hardware issues.

Learn More

Residential Glass

Full-service residential glass repair and installation including windows, doors, mirrors, and custom features.

Learn More

Glass Door Hardware

Glass door hardware installation and replacement including hinges, handles, closers, and locks.

Learn More

Sliding Glass Doors

Sliding glass door installation, track repair, roller replacement, and glass panel replacement.

Learn More

French Doors

French door glass repair, panel replacement, and new French door installation with custom glass options.

Learn More

Window Repair

Window glass replacement, foggy window repair, and broken window restoration for homes across the DMV.

Learn More

Insulated Glass

Double-pane and triple-pane insulated glass unit fabrication and replacement for energy-efficient homes.

Learn More

Ready to Start?

Get Your Free Pet Door Estimate

Call us today or request a free estimate. We will measure your pet, assess your glass door, and recommend the best pet door solution for your home and your family members.

Request Free Estimate (703) 679-7741