Diamond Grille vs Modern Mesh Security Screens: What’s the Difference?

May 21st, 2026

Key Takeaway

• Diamond grille was never independently tested to a security standard, modern mesh security screens are tested to AS5039-2023 across knife shear, pull, anti-jemmy, impact and probe resistance
• Diamond grille has open gaps too large to stop insects, modern mesh has apertures under 2mm designed to block both entry and insects
• Diamond grille’s painted steel construction is prone to rust over time, modern 316 marine grade stainless steel resists corrosion without ongoing maintenance
• CommandeX offers a full range of AS5039-2023 tested alternatives, from entry-level to extreme coastal specification

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Diamond grille screens were once a hallmark of Australian homes, and you’ll still see them on older properties across the country. But security screen technology has moved on significantly, and it’s worth understanding how diamond grille compares to modern woven mesh before you specify or replace one.

Why diamond grille fell out of use

Diamond grille screens rely on a welded steel lattice for physical strength, and that structure does resist basic forced entry. But diamond grille was never independently tested against a formal Australian security standard. Modern security screens undergo independent testing to AS5039-2023 across six categories, knife shear, pull, anti-jemmy, impact, probe and corrosion resistance, giving homeowners a verified, comparable benchmark that diamond grille simply doesn’t have.

They don’t protect your home from insects

Diamond grille’s open lattice pattern is too large to stop insects. Modern woven stainless steel mesh, like SecureView EclipX’s 1.575mm aperture, blocks insect entry while still allowing full airflow, something diamond grille was never designed to do.

They’re not aesthetically pleasing

Diamond grille’s welded lattice pattern is a distinctive look, but it’s a look most homeowners now associate with older homes rather than a considered design choice. Modern mesh screens use a finer weave that sits closer to invisible from a distance, giving a cleaner, more contemporary appearance that suits both heritage and modern architecture.

They generally don’t stand up well to the rigours of time

Diamond grille is typically made from painted or powder-coated mild steel. Once that coating is compromised, exposed steel corrodes, and painted steel doesn’t offer the same protection as 316 marine grade stainless steel, which resists rust even in coastal and high-humidity environments without ongoing treatment.

The Modern Alternative

Today’s stainless steel mesh security screens offer everything diamond grille cannot, genuine security testing to AS5039-2023, 316 marine grade corrosion resistance, insect protection and a clean modern aesthetic that complements any home. CommandeX offers a full range of independently tested security screens to suit every budget and environment: *

• SecureView EclipX – 316 marine grade stainless steel, the premium choice for Australian homes
• SaltWaterSeries – specifically engineered for extreme coastal environments
• Xceed – perforated aluminium screens offering increased privacy without compromising security
• BasiX – entry level safety screens for every budget

SecureView, SaltWaterSeries, Xceed products are independently tested and exceed Australian Standards AS5039-2023, while BasiX safety screens offer an attractive and cost effective entry point into the woven stainless mesh range for those seeking insect and barrier protection. The benchmark diamond grille products simply cannot meet! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is diamond grille security screen tested to Australian Standards?

No. Diamond grille was never independently tested against AS5039-2023, the current Australian Standard for security screen doors and window grilles. CommandeX’s woven mesh range is independently tested across all six required categories.

Does diamond grille stop insects?

No. The open lattice pattern used in diamond grille is too large to block insect entry. Modern woven mesh screens, with apertures under 2mm, are designed to provide both security and insect protection.

Can I replace an existing diamond grille screen?

Yes. CommandeX security screens are custom manufactured to fit any existing opening, so replacing an old diamond grille screen with a modern, AS5039-2023 tested alternative is straightforward.