Do you know what to look for when choosing a security screen door? We explain what to look out for when shopping around and choosing a security door.

What makes a security screen door…a security door?
To be a true security door, it must meet Australian Standards 5039. There are 6 tests to assess the strength and structural integrity of security doors:

The Knife sheer test to ensure nobody can cut through the mesh
The Impact test to make sure no one can break the door in
The Anti-jemmy test ensures the frame can’t be levered or pried open
The Pull test follows the jemmy test, but only if there’s a gap after the jemmy test. It’s to make sure no one can pull at the security screen either at the bottom, middle, side or top of the screen. The test also assesses the integrity and fixing of the mesh into the screen frame.
Probe test*
Sheer test*
*N/A for SP Screens range of security screens. The Probe and Sheer test is not required if the whole aperture of the mesh is smaller than the test requirement.

Security mesh options
There are many different names for the mesh used in window security screens and security screen doors, but ultimately they are made from two different materials, woven stainless steel and perforated aluminium.

Woven stainless steel mesh Perforated aluminum security mesh
Stainless steel woven mesh is manufactured by weaving longitudinal and transverse 304 or 316 grade wires together.
The perforated aluminum screen is a sheet of aluminium with holes punched in it.

Each supplier will have different specifications for each product including, mesh thickness and hole aperture. If it meets Australian Standards, it’s safe, just comes down to aesthetics, see through visibility and your proximity to salt exposure.

At SP Screens, we use SecureView, a 316 marine grade stainless steel woven mesh, which exceeds the testing requirements. The benefit of 316 is that it is more durable along the coastline where there’s salt exposure.

Perforated aluminium is an entry level security option which is a great alternative to Diamond Grilles. They will filter more light than woven stainless steel, so it’s important to look at samples to check the thickness and visibility for yourself. SP Screens has showrooms in select locations from Sydney to Brisbane and in Perth where you can view our products or as a sales representative to show you a sample during a consultation.

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