Pair the inside and outside views
Take wide photos that make it possible to understand where the proposed opening sits in each room and on the exterior. Label which view is which. Note visible changes in floor or ground level, nearby furniture and the destination beyond the opening. A close-up alone can hide an awkward landing or a route that is difficult to supervise.
Leave concealed conditions to the assessment
A product page cannot tell you whether a particular wall contains wiring, pipes or structural elements at the proposed location. Put those unknowns into the brief and ask who is qualified to assess them before a location is approved. Do not probe, drill or open the wall simply to fill in this worksheet. Keep proposed placement provisional until the assessment is complete.
Define the full assembly
Hale’s Wall Model is a through-wall product with a tunnel and stated thickness requirements. That description helps identify questions for the supplier, but does not specify the correct detailing for your building. Ask who confirms the complete wall thickness, selects the assembly and designs the transitions at each face. Include the tunnel, cover operation, interior finish and exterior weather detailing in the written scope.
Agree on handover and follow-up
Ask what the installer will document, how normal access control will be demonstrated and which parts need inspection or maintenance. Name the person to contact if moisture, a loose component or an operating problem appears later. These observations do not diagnose a defect; they provide useful information for follow-up. Keep product instructions, installation records and photographs together so another professional can understand the work.
Sources & scope · Checked September 7, 2026
Hale Wall Model ↗
The named wall model uses a through-wall assembly. Product dimensions do not determine structural suitability.
Hale pet-door sizing guide ↗
Pet, passage, rough-opening and overall frame dimensions are separate records. Follow the selected manufacturer’s method.
Bring the questions along.
Your project brief gives unresolved details a place to live.
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