Security Doors & Screens: Crimsafe, Mesh & Fly Screens Explained
Security mesh doors, Crimsafe, fly screens and security window screens — what to choose.
Cost estimates only: Any building or upgrade figures in this guide are indicative, not fixed prices or quotes. Costs and inclusions vary by project, supplier, location and time. Confirm current written prices and specifications directly with your builder, suppliers and relevant trades.
- Security doors (stainless steel mesh) allow ventilation while keeping intruders out
- Crimsafe and Amplimesh are the leading security mesh brands in Australia
- Fly screens keep insects out but don't provide security; security screens do both
- Security screens can be retrofitted, but planning during the build ensures proper fitting
- Some estates and insurance policies require or incentivise security doors
Security doors and screens serve two purposes — keeping insects out and keeping intruders out. Standard fly screens do the first but not the second. Security screens (stainless steel mesh) do both, allowing you to leave doors and windows open for ventilation without compromising security. Understanding the options helps you plan for security during your build.
Security Doors vs Fly Screens
- Fly screen — lightweight mesh (fibreglass or aluminium); keeps insects out; provides no security; standard inclusion on many windows
- Security screen — heavy-duty stainless steel mesh in an aluminium frame; keeps insects out AND prevents forced entry; meets Australian security standards; an upgrade
- Security door — a security screen fitted to a hinged or sliding door; allows the main door to be left open for ventilation while maintaining security
Security Mesh Brands
- Crimsafe — the most well-known brand; patented screw-clamp system; stainless steel mesh; meets Australian security standards
- Amplimesh — another leading brand; Screenguard and Supascreen ranges; stainless steel mesh
- Invisi-Gard — stainless steel mesh; aluminium frame; high visibility
- SecureView / Meshtec — various security mesh products; similar performance
- Diamond grill — aluminium grille with diamond pattern; older style; less visible mesh; provides security but less airflow and visibility
Where to Install Security Screens
- Front door — allows ventilation while maintaining security; recommended
- Back door — same as front; particularly important for homes with rear access
- Sliding doors — security screens can be fitted to sliding door tracks
- Bedroom windows — allows windows to be left open at night for ventilation while maintaining security
- Ground-floor windows — all accessible ground-floor windows should have security screens if security is a concern
- Alfresco / outdoor openings — security screens for sliding/bi-fold doors
| Item | Example Cost |
|---|---|
| Security door (front or back) | $600–$1,200 each |
| Security sliding door screen | $700–$1,500 |
| Security window screen (per window) | $250–$500 |
| Fly screens (standard inclusion) | Usually standard |
| Whole home (2 doors + 10 windows) | $4,000–$8,000+ |
Tip
Insurance and Estate Considerations
Some home insurance policies offer reduced premiums for homes with security doors and screens. Some estates or land developments require security doors on certain openings as part of their design guidelines. Check with your insurer and estate to understand any requirements or incentives.
- Does the builder include fly screens on all operable windows, or only some?
- Does the builder offer Crimsafe or Amplimesh security screens, and at what cost?
- Can I add security screens after construction, or does the frame need to be planned during the build?
- Are security doors required by my estate's design guidelines?
- Assuming fly screens are standard on all windows — some builders only include them on bedrooms
- Not planning security door frames during the build — retrofitting can be more expensive and less neat
- Choosing diamond grill over stainless steel mesh — less visibility and airflow for similar security
- Forgetting security screens on sliding doors — a common weak point in home security
- Prioritise security screens on front and back doors first — they provide the most security and ventilation benefit
- Stainless steel mesh (Crimsafe, Amplimesh) provides both security and insect protection in one product
- Some insurers offer reduced premiums for homes with certified security doors — check with your insurer
- Security screens can be retrofitted, so they're a good upgrade to phase in if budget is tight
Door Hardware Guide
Coordinate locks and hardware with your security doors.
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