Living in Australia means dealing with hot summers. A common solution to beat the heat is keeping your doors open, but that also means being mindful of your home’s security and unwelcome guests. Security screens offer the perfect solution, letting you enjoy natural ventilation and light while protecting your home from intruders and insects. However, not all security doors are made equal, and buying a security screen door requires careful consideration. As a trusted provider of quality security screens, Screen and Blind Master can help homeowners navigate these choices and select doors that balance safety, durability, and style.
This comprehensive guide will help you make an informed choice when buying security products for your home, ensuring you get quality screens that meet your needs and budget.
Choosing the Right Security Screen for Your Home
When you’re buying a security screen door, the first step is assessing what you actually need. Different homes face different security challenges depending on where they’re located. A property in a higher-risk neighbourhood might require superior security features compared to a home in a quiet suburban street. That said, even low-risk areas benefit from robust protection. You never know when circumstances might change.
The right security solution balances several competing priorities. You want maximum protection, but you also want to see out clearly and maintain good airflow through your home. Modern security screen technology has come a long way, meaning you no longer have to sacrifice visibility or ventilation for safety. The best security products offer excellent sightlines while still being designed to withstand serious attempts at forced entry.
Consider how you’ll use your security door. If you have pets, you might want to explore pet door options. If you’re in a coastal area, corrosion resistance should be a top priority. Think about whether you’re securing standard hinged doors, pivot doors, or even your internal garage door. Each application has specific requirements.
What to Look for in a Security Screen
Australian Standards Compliance
This is non-negotiable. Any security screen you purchase must meet Australian Standard AS 5039.1:2023 for high security products or AS 5039.2:2024 for medium security products. These standards for security ensure the door has passed rigorous impact, jemmy tests, knife shear resistance, and other critical safety assessments. The door should display an Australian standards compliance label showing it’s been independently tested.
Don’t accept vague claims about “meeting standards.” The door can be shown to comply through proper certification and labelling. Products that meet these requirements have been tested against real-world break-in scenarios.
Frame Construction
The frame is the backbone of your security door, and this is where many cheaper options fall short. Look for frames made from either heavy-duty aluminium or steel. Quality frames feature receiver channel construction that securely holds the mesh or perforated sheets in place.
Pay attention to the corners. They should have internal corner stakes or be fully welded for maximum strength. A weak corner is an invitation for jimmying attempts. The aluminium frame should be reinforced at stress points to prevent flex or movement under force.
Infill Materials
The material filling your security screen makes a huge difference to both performance and longevity. You’ll typically encounter three main options:
Stainless Steel Mesh: This is the premium choice for your home. Marine-grade stainless steel mesh (typically 316 marine grade stainless steel) offers exceptional strength and corrosion resistance. It’s particularly important in coastal areas where salt spray can cause rust on inferior materials. Stainless steel security screens from brands like Prowler Proof use woven 316-grade material that’s incredibly difficult to cut through.
Perforated Aluminium: A perforated aluminium sheet provides excellent visibility and airflow while maintaining good security. These perforated sheets are punched from solid aluminium, creating a strong barrier that’s lighter than steel alternatives. They’re a popular middle-ground option offering solid protection at accessible price points.
Grilles and Bars: Traditional steel doors with grilles or bars provide heavy-duty security but can feel cage-like. They’re less common in modern homes but still have applications where maximum visible deterrence is wanted.
Locking Systems
A security screen is only as good as its lock. Look for doors fitted with a triple lock or point lock system, typically a three-point or five-point locking mechanism. These engage at multiple points along the door frame, making it extremely difficult for intruders to force the door open.
The lock mechanism itself should use at least a 5-pin cylinder or better. Cheap locks can be picked or bumped open, completely defeating the purpose of your security investment. Premium brands like Lockwood are among the strongest residential security locks on the market, offering advanced features like Kinetic Defence Keying Technology and backed by 25-year mechanical warranties. Some premium options offer keyed-alike systems where all your security doors and windows can use the same key for convenience.
Hinges
Your security door should have at least three heavy-duty hinges with fixed, non-removable pins. Tamper-resistant hinges prevent someone from simply lifting your door off its mounts from the outside. The hinges should be welded or mechanically fixed to both the door and frame, not just screwed in place.
NSSA Membership
When buying a security screen door, look for dealers who are members of the National Security Screen Association (NSSA). NSSA membership indicates a commitment to quality and adherence to Australian safety standards. It also provides you with additional peace of mind knowing the installer follows industry best practices. As a member of the NSSA, Screen and Blind Master only provides quality security screen doors that adhere to Australian safety standards. As a licensed dealer of Prowler Proof brand doors, we ensure every installation meets strict safety requirements while providing durable, reliable protection for your home.
How Much Do Security Screen Doors Cost?
Security screen costs vary depending on the type of door, materials used, and level of security required. Homeowners should expect to budget between $900 and $1,600 per door. Within this range, you’ll find doors that combine robust frames, high-quality mesh or perforated aluminium infills, and secure multi-point locking systems.
Choosing a door in this range ensures it meets Australian standards and provides reliable protection for most homes. Professional installation is highly recommended to guarantee your security screen performs as designed, eliminating gaps, weak points, or alignment issues that could compromise safety.
Read our full security screens price guide article
Security Screen Applications for Your Home
Security screens aren’t just for your front door. Modern customisation options mean you can secure virtually every entry point to your home.
Doors and Windows: Security screen doors and windows come in both hinged and sliding configurations to suit your home’s design. Hinged security doors are ideal for traditional entry points, swinging open on robust, tamper-resistant hinges. Sliding security doors work perfectly for larger openings like patio or balcony access, gliding smoothly while maintaining full security.
Security screens for windows are just as important as door protection, as intruders often target windows as easier entry points. Window screens use the same high-quality mesh or perforated materials as doors but in fixed or sliding frame configurations.
Beyond standard applications, modern security screen installation offers solutions for specialty requirements. Security screens for pivot doors require special consideration due to their unique opening mechanism, but quality manufacturers can provide impressive results that maintain the architectural appeal of your entrance while adding protection.
Security screens for pivot doors
Many families also want the convenience of a security door with dog door integration, where the pet flap itself has its own locking mechanism to prevent it from becoming a weak point.
Security door with dog door integration
Securing your internal garage door is often overlooked but crucial. If someone gains access to your garage, an internal security screen provides an important second line of defence.
Securing your internal garage door
The beauty of modern security screen technology is that solutions exist for virtually any door type: French doors, double doors, and even non-standard sizes can all be accommodated through custom manufacturing.
Benefits of Security Screens and Adding Value to Your Home
Beyond the obvious security advantages, quality security doors come with multiple benefits that impact your daily living and property value.
Property Value: Security screens can increase the value of your home by improving its appeal to safety-conscious buyers. In areas where security is a concern, homes with comprehensive security doors and windows often sell faster and command premium prices. Even in lower-risk areas, the lifestyle benefits add market appeal.
Energy Efficiency: This is often the hidden benefit people don’t consider when buying a security screen. By allowing you to keep doors and windows open for natural ventilation during cooler evenings and mornings, security screens reduce your reliance on air conditioning. In Queensland’s climate, this can translate to hundreds of dollars in annual cooling cost savings. The mesh allows airflow while keeping your home secure, creating a more comfortable living environment without the energy bills.
Insurance Considerations: Some insurance providers offer premium discounts for homes with certified security screens. While not universal, it’s worth checking with your insurer whether your security investment might reduce your premiums. Even without a direct discount, robust security can simplify claims processes if the worst happens.
Lifestyle Benefits: The freedom to sleep with doors and windows open on hot nights, knowing you’re protected, is invaluable. Security screens also keep out insects (replacing the need for separate flyscreen installations), allow natural light to flood your home, and let you enjoy breezes without compromising safety. For families, this peace of mind means children can play in view while doors remain open.
Long-term Investment: Quality screens typically last 15 to 20 years or more with minimal maintenance. When you consider the accumulated benefits over that timeframe (energy savings, avoided air conditioning costs, insurance benefits, and daily quality of life improvements), the return on investment becomes clear.
How security screens increase your home’s value
How to Clean Your Security Screen Door
Maintaining your security screen ensures it continues to protect your home and look good for years. Fortunately, cleaning security screens is straightforward if you follow the right approach.
Frequency: In coastal areas, you should clean your screens monthly to prevent salt buildup and potential corrosion. Inland properties can usually get away with quarterly cleaning, though dusty or industrial areas might need more frequent attention.
Method: The gentle approach works best. Use a garden hose to rinse off loose dust and debris, then wipe down with a soft cloth dampened with warm water and a small amount of light detergent. For stubborn marks, a soft-bristle brush can help, but always work gently to avoid damaging the mesh.
What to Avoid: Never use pressure cleaners on security screens. The high pressure can damage the mesh or weld points. Harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and steel wool should also be avoided as they can scratch protective coatings and compromise the finish. These protective layers help prevent rust and maintain appearance.
Stainless Steel Care: While stainless steel mesh is highly corrosion-resistant, it’s not completely maintenance-free. Regular hosing removes salt and environmental contaminants before they can cause issues. If you notice any discolouration, a specialised stainless steel cleaner can restore the finish.
Frame Care: Don’t forget the aluminium or steel frame. Wipe down powder-coated frames with a damp cloth to remove dirt and prevent buildup in crevices. Check hinges and locks occasionally, applying a light lubricant if needed to ensure smooth operation.
Read our full guide on how to clean your security screens
Making Your Final Decision
Choosing the best security screen for your home comes down to balancing your specific needs with your budget. Coastal properties need marine-grade materials, bushfire-prone areas require ember-attack rated products, and high-risk locations warrant premium security ratings. Prowler Proof offers excellent products that meet Australian Standard requirements with options from standard to premium security levels, all backed by extensive warranties and NSSA-approved installation.
Material choice matters for longevity. Coastal homes benefit most from 316-grade stainless steel security products, while inland properties have more flexibility in mesh options. (internal link) Professional installation is crucial. Even the highest-quality security door will underperform if poorly fitted. Look for installers who follow the standard for installation (AS5040) and offer warranties on their work.
Take advantage of free measure and quote services to get expert advice specific to your home. Choose quality products from manufacturers who offer a range of security solutions, ensure they’re properly certified to current Australian standards, and have them professionally installed. The result will be years of peace of mind and genuine protection for your family and possessions.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Screen and Blind Master today for your free measure and quote, and discover how Prowler Proof security screens can transform your home’s security and comfort.