Security Screens or Safety Screens?
January 31st, 2022
Security Screens vs Safety Screens: What’s Right for You?
Choosing the right screening product for your doors and windows can seem like a daunting process, especially with the number of different products on the market. There are several factors that will help you to choose whether investing in security screens or safety screens are right for you. CommandeX will outline the key differences between the two and how to choose who to install them to help you in your decision-making journey.
What’s the Difference Between a Security Screen and a Safety Screen?
Security screens and safety screens are two categories of screening products available. Simply put, the key difference between the two is compliance with Australian Standard AS 5039. Safety screens have evolved over the years and can visually appear just like security screens, but only screens that comply with AS 5039 can be classified as true security screens.
What is a Security Screen?
Security screens are designed and manufactured to meet Australian Standard AS 5039. This Standard requires a screen to undergo six tests that simulate a typical break-in attempt. These six tests include:
– Knife Shear Test
– Impact Test
– Jemmy Test
– Pull Test
– Probe Test
– Shear Test
In essence, each of the six tests are designed to assess how well a screen will resist an attack. For example, the Impact Test replicates an attacker kicking or using force on the screen to gain entry into the home. To pass this test, the screen needs to withstand five impacts from a pendulum weight.
You can read more about the Standard in our blog: “Australian Standards Explained AS 5039-2008”.
The strength inherent in security screens has a dual benefit, in that they can also be used as fall-safe screens. Fall-safe screens are installed to prevent falls from multi-storey homes which is an essential feature for any home, but especially one with children.
Additionally, a triple lock must be fitted to a security door in order to be classified as a compliant security door. Doors without a triple lock could easily be levered open and so would fail the Jemmy Test. This means the door would not comply with AS 5039.
Products such as our Secureview, SaltWaterSeries, and Xceed Perforated Aluminium screens comply and exceed requirements for AS 5039 and are classed as security screens.
What is a Safety Screen?
Safety screens are an affordable alternative to security screens. This category can include screens such as our BasiX Safety Screens or traditional diamond grille screens.
Many screens on the market claim to be “security” but in reality would be considered a safety, or barrier screen, only. The key difference is in the Australian Standard AS 5039 compliance mentioned earlier. Safety screens have not been tested or certified to this Standard and so are not able to be called a security screen.
The biggest draw for safety screens is their price point. Many safety screens have features you’d expect from a security screen but at a lower price point, such as construction with premium quality materials and (when installed correctly) some safety screens can even be used as fall-safe screens. Barrier screens definitely have their place in the market and are a great option for those who simply need insect protection to be able to keep their doors and windows open in Summer.
Which Option is Best for You?
Factoring in your family structure, the location of your home, and your own needs will help to determine which screen type is appropriate for you. Families with children and pets would value the features offered by a true security screen: fall-prevention, pet-resistance, and most importantly a crucial layer of home security. In contrast, people who live in secure gated communities may not prioritise or require the level of security that comes with a true security screen. Safety screens will be fit for purpose for providing insect protection and a visual deterrent.
How Do You Choose an Installer?
Selecting the right installer is the important final step in the decision-making process. Screens can be a big expense and you want to be confident that they will stand the test of time once installed. Starting with a simple Google search is a great launching pad. This allows you to see how long a company has been in business, whether they hold relevant licensing for your State, photos of previous installations they’ve completed, as well as testimonials from previous customers. This easy step will help you to gauge how reputable a company is before allowing them to install your screens.
If you’ve chosen to install a security product, it’s important to ensure that your installer is qualified to fit your security screens to Australian Standard AS 5040. This Standard outlines the minimum requirements for the installation of security windows and doors. Keep in mind that if your security screens are not installed to AS 5040, this automatically relegates the security screens to barrier screens only.
CommandeX dealers are the best in the business and are armed with the tools and experience needed to install your screens professionally and with the highest quality products available. For a free measure and quote from your local CommandeX dealer, fill out the online enquiry form or call us on 1300 720 838.