Installing a patio security screen is an effective way to improve home security while maintaining ventilation, natural light, and unobstructed views.
In this homeowner’s guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about selecting the right patio security screen, including materials, features, and the benefits you can reap from patio security screen doors.
Why Invest in a Patio Security Screen?
A quality patio security screen provides an extra layer of protection without making your home feel closed off. Unlike standard flyscreens, security screens are designed to resist forced entry while still allowing air to circulate throughout your home.
Some of the key benefits include:
- Protection against intruders. Options such as Invisi-Gard feature 316 marine-grade stainless steel mesh, providing premium security and protection for your home.
- Better airflow and natural ventilation. Installing a patio security screen allows you to leave your main patio doors wide open to capture evening breezes.
- Pest control. Keeps out mosquitoes, flies, and midges just like a standard flyscreen, but with a durable weave that won’t sag or tear over time.
- Added value to your home. Patio security doors are a permanent property upgrade that appeals directly to safety-conscious buyers.
- Greater peace of mind for your family.
To truly reap the benefits of your security screens, it’s important to have them installed by a reliable and reputable installer. Custom Screens & Security provides a two-year parts and labour warranty on all installed products, along with additional structural warranties that range from 7 to 15 years, depending on the product selected.
Choosing the Right Security Screen for Your Patio
There are several styles of patio security screen doors available to suit different homes, architectural designs, and safety needs.
Invisi-Gard® Security Screens
If you’re looking to enhance both the security and usability of your patio and outdoor areas, Invisi-Gard® security screens are an excellent choice. They provide outstanding protection against forced entry while maintaining clear views and excellent airflow.
Key benefits for patios include:
- Maximum security – The high-tensile 316 marine-grade stainless steel mesh is among the strongest on the market against impact and forced entry, giving you added peace of mind when using your outdoor space.
- Clear, unobstructed views – The fine-woven mesh provides high visibility, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor surroundings without feeling enclosed.
- Built for harsh Australian conditions – Made with corrosion-resistant 316 marine-grade stainless steel and a patented screw-free retention system, Invisi-Gard® screens are perfectly suited for coastal environments and Western Australia’s climate.
- Long-lasting performance – The patented Extreme Grip Protection (EGP) system secures the mesh without screws, reducing the risk of corrosion and helping the screen maintain its strength and appearance over time. Products are also backed by a 15-year warranty.
Alu-Gard® Security Screens
Alu-Gard® security screens are a practical and cost-effective solution for homeowners looking to improve the security and comfort of their patio.
Key points of difference include:
- Affordable security – Alu-Gard® screens are a popular, cost-effective choice for homeowners seeking quality security without the premium price of stainless steel systems.
- Reliable security – While the mesh isn’t as strong as Invisi-Gard® stainless steel mesh, Alu-Gard® screens have passed rigorous Australian AS 5039 standards, such as knife shear, dynamic impact and jemmy tests, so you can be confident in your home’s security.
- Corrosion-resistant – The powder-coated aluminium construction is designed to withstand Australia’s harsh climate, making it ideal for outdoor patio areas.
Vision-Gard Security Screens
Vision-Gard® security screens are an ideal choice for homeowners who want to combine security with enhanced privacy. Vision-Gard® is designed to reduce visibility into your home from the outside while still allowing you to enjoy clear views from your patio.
Key benefits for patios include:
- Enhanced privacy – The 1.6mm thick perforated aluminium mesh limits the view into your home from outside while maintaining excellent visibility from the inside, making your patio feel more private without sacrificing natural light.
- Ideal for outdoor living – Enjoy fresh air and natural ventilation while creating a more secure, private patio space perfect for entertaining or relaxing.
- Bushfire resistance – Vision-Gard® screens are compliant for bushfire-prone areas up to BAL-29, offering an extra level of reassurance for many Australian homes.
Invisi-Maxx Cyclone Security Screens combine:
Invisi-Maxx® Cyclone Security Screens are designed for homeowners who need the highest level of protection in extreme weather conditions without compromising security or visibility. These security screens are especially valuable in cyclone-prone coastal areas such as northern Western Australia.
Important features include:
- Engineered for extreme weather – Invisi-Maxx® screens are cyclone-compliant and exceed the requirements of Australian Standard AS 1170.2, making them ideal for outdoor patios in cyclone-prone regions.
- Exceptional impact resistance – The screens are designed to withstand powerful windborne debris. They’ve passed the Cyclonic Missile Impact Test, where a 4kg timber projectile is hurled directly at the screen.
- Premium corrosion resistance – Manufactured with 316 marine-grade or 304 stainless steel mesh, Invisi-Maxx® screens are built to perform in harsh weather environments and have passed rigorous salt spray testing.
- Long-term performance confidence – A 15-year structural warranty reflects our confidence in Invisi-Maxx® screens’ lasting performance and ability to meet standards for decades.
What’s the Best Material for Your Patio Security Screen?
The strength and durability of a patio security screen largely depend on the materials used. Central Screens & Locks supplies patio security screens in a range of durable materials, with options primarily featuring stainless steel or aluminium mesh.
Stainless Steel Mesh
Stainless steel mesh is a strong, corrosion-resistant mesh made from woven or perforated stainless steel. Two of the more popular options are 304 stainless steel, suitable for outdoor patios in residential areas, and 316 marine-grade stainless steel, which offers higher corrosion resistance for coastal or exposed areas.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Highly durable and very effective at protecting patio doors against forced entry. | Higher upfront cost than standard fly screens or basic security screen options. |
| The fine mesh allows for a high level of visibility. | While visibility is good, it could slightly reduce natural light. |
| Quality stainless steel mesh is designed to withstand outdoor conditions, prevent corrosion and maximise insect protection. | Needs professional installation, as a poorly installed screen can limit its security and durability. |
Aluminium Security Mesh
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Generally more affordable than stainless steel, so a great option for budget-friendly households looking for a strong and secure option. | Aluminium mesh is generally softer and less impact-resistant than stainless steel mesh. |
| Lightweight, making the security screen very easy to operate. | More prone to denting or bending. |
| Very easy to clean and low maintenance. | Lower level of protection than stainless steel mesh. |
| Rust-resistant, so they are great for outdoor areas. | Whilst it doesn’t rust, aluminium can still corrode in coastal or highly exposed areas over time. |
Galvanised steel mesh
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong and impact-resistant. Galvanised steel is tougher than fibreglass or basic mesh options. | The steel underneath can rust if the zinc layer gets damaged or scratched. |
| The zinc coating helps prevent rust and corrosion. | May need more maintenance, with checks of the zinc coating for scratches or rust spots. |
| Offers solid strength at a lower price point. | Generally offers a lower level of protection than stainless steel and aluminium mesh. |
Important Security Screen Features for Your Outdoor Area
Not all patio security screen doors offer the same level of protection. Before making your purchase, consider these important features.
- Strong frame construction – Look for heavy-duty aluminium or steel frames designed to withstand impact and attempted forced entry.
- High-quality locks – Multi-point locking systems provide greater security than standard single-lock designs and make it much harder for intruders to gain access.
- Australian standards compliance – Choose products that meet relevant Australian security standards to ensure they’ve been tested for strength, durability and resistance to forced entry. They must comply with the AS 5039 series to be classified as genuine security products. The framework has three parts:
- AS 5039.1: Classification and Performance. Specifies the requirements and classes for residential security screens.
- AS 5039.2: Installation. Ensures screens are correctly fitted to door and window frames so they function as intended.
- AS 5039.3: Methods of Test. Six rigorous assessments conducted in NATA-accredited laboratories that a screen must pass to earn its security rating.
- Corrosion resistance – If you live near the coast, select a patio security screen specifically designed to resist corrosion and harsh weather conditions.
Is a Patio Security Screen Worth It?
Patio security screens offer a practical combination of security, comfort, and style. They allow you to leave your patio doors open for fresh air while maintaining a strong barrier against unwanted visitors.
Compared to replacing an entire patio door system, installing patio security screen doors is often a cost-effective way to improve home security without sacrificing natural light or ventilation.
Choosing the right security screen for your patio often involves balancing security, durability, appearance, and functionality. By selecting high-quality materials, reliable locking systems, and professional installation, you can enjoy a safer home while making the most of your outdoor living space.
Reach out to our team for expert advice and a free quote, and explore our range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can patio security screens be fitted to existing patio doors?
We can easily retrofit security screens onto your patio’s stacking, French, hinged, or sliding doors. We can measure the opening, check the door frame and recommend the most suitable screen system for your home, wherever you are in Western Australia.
Do patio security screens need much maintenance?
Patio security screens require minimal upkeep, but they still need a basic wash every 2 to 6 months to remove any dust and salt buildup, so they can keep performing well. In most homes, a gentle wash with mild detergent, water and a soft sponge is more than enough. If you want to learn more about how to clean and maintain security screens, visit our news section.
Do I need council approval for a patio security screen?
In most standard residential situations, patio security screens do not require council approval because they are fitted to an existing opening. However, strata properties, heritage homes or homes in bushfire-prone areas may have additional requirements, so it is worth checking before installation.