A Guide To Choosing the Right Security Screen Mesh? 

February 28th, 2022

How To Choose the Right CommandeX Security Screen Mesh for Your Needs?

Have you been researching which security screen mesh is best for your home? That decision has been made easy with our guide below. Security mesh is categorised by two types of mesh, woven stainless steel and perforated aluminium. Woven stainless steel is made up of strands of stainless steel woven together, almost like a checkerboard.  Perforated aluminium is a single sheet of aluminium with holes punched out, “perforated”. Each mesh type has its own pros and cons and the right option is completely dependent on the needs and requirements of a home and family. If you want to know how to choose the right security screen mesh, just keep reading!   

SaltWaterSeries 

SaltWaterSeries (316 Stainless Steel Woven Mesh with Extra Protective Coating) is the newest addition to the CommandeX product range. Most security screens on the market are not suitable for homes in extreme environments, which means that screens installed in those areas may corrode. SaltWaterSeries has been designed and created to fill this gap in the market when it comes to top-of-the-line security and corrosion-resistance. 

The most common type of corrosion seen on screens in coastal areas is galvanic corrosion. Essentially, galvanic corrosion occurs when two dissimilar metals come into contact and are then exposed to the elements. For example, some other screens on the market are made with stainless steel mesh (metal type #1) that is screwed into aluminium framing (metal type #2). Both of these metals are bonded by the screws. These screens begin corroding as soon as the two dissimilar metals are exposed to industrial/red dust or salt-spray. Our patented keyway fixing system was designed to counteract this issue, by providing a clear space between the mesh and the aluminium frame to reduce the risk of galvanic corrosion.

 SaltWaterSeries mesh is made from premium 316 marine grade stainless steel and is powder-coated to prevent corrosion. This makes the product perfect for homes located within extreme environments such as those 500m of the coastline or up to 2km for properties located on an escarpment where prevailing wind will carry salt air, iron-rich and red dust prone areas, or heavy industrial areas.

Pros: 

• Top-of-the-line security product 
• Exceeds requirements for Australian Standard AS 5039
• Specifically created for homes within extreme environments 
• Anti-corrosive 316 marine grade stainless steel mesh 
• Industry-leading 20-year extended warranty with online product registration

Cons:

• This product requires regular maintenance and cleaning schedules to be followed to guarantee its longevity and lifespan, so is not suitable for those who will not clean or maintain their screens 

SecureView 

SecureView is our core security screen product. It’s a premium product made from 316 marine grade stainless steel and has been installed in homes all over Australia for years. SecureView mesh is 0.8mm woven stainless steel and offers excellent ventilation for airflow into the home. Some alternative security screens on the market are created with a larger diameter mesh. This can sound like a good thing on the surface, but what many don’t consider is the extra weight that comes with it. Most sliding door suites, for example, are not capable of withstanding this additional weight and this can cause tracks to bow or sag over time. 

Each component of SecureView screens is made specifically to exceed the requirements for Australian Standard AS 5039 and is a far more compatible security product for the majority of existing door and window suites on Australian homes, without requiring any additions or structural fortification. You don’t compromise on security or strength with a SecureView screen.

SecureView screens are appropriate for any other home in Australia that isn’t located within the extreme environments covered by SaltWaterSeries screens. This includes homes in bushfire-prone areas, those that require security protection, or for homeowners who just want a security screen that looks good on their home. 

Pros: 

• Premium security product
• Exceeds requirements for Australian Standard AS 5039 
• Excellent visibility and airflow 
• 15-year extended warranty with online product registration 
• Rated up to BAL-40 for bushfire-prone areas

Cons:

• Not appropriate for those who will not clean or maintain their screens 
• Not suitable for homes located within extreme environments (i.e. within 500m of the coastline)

Xceed Perforated Aluminium 

Xceed security screens are made from corrosion-resistant perforated structural grade aluminium panels. The aluminium used for Xceed screens is 1.6mm thick which lends a lot of strength to the screen. The strength of Xceed is backed up by its compliance with Australian Standards (AS 5039).

Xceed doors and windows are perfect for people who want a little extra privacy from their screens and a budget-friendly security option. Aluminium is a more cost-effective product than its woven stainless steel alternatives, while still offering excellent corrosion-resistance for coastal homes. The combination of like-materials used in Xceed screens (aluminium mesh and aluminium frame) in conjunction with our patented keyway fixing system, means the risk of galvanic corrosion is greatly reduced. 

Pros: 

• Value for money, Xceed is an affordable security screen option 
• Exceeds requirements for Australian Standard AS 5039
• Offers more privacy than woven stainless steel mesh 
• 7-Year extended warranty with online product registration

Cons:

• Not appropriate for those who will not clean or maintain their screens 
• Not suitable for homes located within extreme environments (i.e. within 500m of the coastline)

BasiX Safety Screens  

BasiX Safety Screens are made from a thinner woven 316 marine grade stainless steel mesh than its security screen counterparts, but are still constructed with high-quality materials and components. BasiX screens have been designed as an affordable alternative to security screens, providing excellent corrosion-resistance, visibility, and style without the higher price tag. Its mesh has a smaller hole aperture which helps to keep out insects and bugs and is an essential feature for Australian conditions. 

BasiX Safety Screens are perfect for customers who want the appearance and similar features of a security screen, but aren’t concerned with having a security product installed. This is great for homes in gated communities, low-crime areas, or for second-storey windows where fall-prevention is required but security risks are lower. You can read more about Fall-Safe screens here. 

Pros: 

• Affordable alternative to security screens
• Excellent insect protection 
• Anti-corrosion 316 marine grade stainless steel 
• 7-year extended warranty with online product registration

 Cons:

• As BasiX is a Safety Screen, it’s not suitable for homes where a security product is required
• Not appropriate for those who will not clean or maintain their screens 
• Not suitable for homes located within extreme environments (i.e. within 500m of the coastline)

Summary of Which Security Screen Mesh is Right for You

CommandeX has designed our mesh product range to have an option to suit every home, family, and budget. Whether you’re looking for top-of-the-line security on your bayside home offered by our SaltWaterSeries screens, or BasiX safety screens fitted to your townhouse in a gated community, you’re guaranteed to find a product to fit your needs. Our qualified dealers can help you to make your screening dreams a reality and help you to install the right product at your home. For a free measure and quote from your local CommandeX dealer, fill out the online enquiry form or call us on 1300 720 838.