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Hello,
as this space is quite small as it is, I have tried to think of the best way possible to make this space cat escape proof as my cat is dying to get outside!! I already have the net and have done some research and it seems self drilling metal screws would be ideal but are they permanent because I am only renting here and don’t want to damage anything/ want to be able to remove it when I end up moving house
(the photo is facing out from the sliding back door to a brick house)
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @tahlias. It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about installing cat netting.
It’s definitely tricky to secure a cat net to Colourbond in a rental without causing any damage, because the tension from the net can be quite strong and most permanent fixings like self-drilling screws would leave holes. One approach is to look at non-invasive attachments. If there’s a bit of space under the top trim of the Colourbond, you could use spring clamps or a timber batten clamped along the top to hold the netting in place. You could then fix the net to the timber rather than the fence itself, which keeps it removable when you move.
Another consideration is how high the fence is and where the net runs. Since it’s over areas where people walk underneath, you’ll want to make sure the net is secure and not sagging into a hazard zone. You could also think about tensioning the net with bungee cords or zip ties attached to the clamped timber rather than the fence, which lets you keep it taut without drilling. Another option could be just using spring clamps to attach the netting to the top capping of the Colorbond. You'd need to space them fairly frequently, but you should be able to clamp onto the underside lip of the top capping.
It really comes down to balancing safety for the cat and the net’s tension while keeping everything removable and rental-friendly. Have you considered building a catio instead of netting the area? Here's a wonderful Indoor to outdoor cat tower by @Shannon.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
