Screens for Casement and Awning Windows

June 1st, 2026

 

What are casement and awning windows?

Casement and awning windows are hinged windows that open outward rather than sliding horizontally or vertically. A casement window is hinged on the side and opens outward like a door while an awing window opens from top and opens outward to create an awning effect to allow ventilation.

These window types are both very common within Australian homes, particularly in Queensland and New South Wales where cross ventilation is a priority. Their outward opening mechanism makes them excellent for airflow but creates a specific challenge when it comes to security screens.

Why don’t standard security screens work on casement windows?

Standard sliding security screens are designed for sliding windows and doors, they sit in a track and slide horizontally. They cannot be fitted to a casement or awning window because the window opens outward and would push directly against the screen. 

This is one of the most common specification mistakes made by homeowners and builders, ordering a standard security screen for a casement or awning window. The result is either a screen that cannot be installed or one that is incorrectly fitted and fails to provide meaningful security.

What are the options for casement and awning windows?

There are two main approaches for securing casement and awning windows: 

Option 1 – Fixed security screen: A fixed security screen is permanently fitted to the window frame and does not open or move. The window behind it can open freely for ventilation while the fixed screen provides security and insect protection. 

For properties where the window is not required as an emergency escape route, this is a simple and effective solution. 

Option 2 – Hinged security screen: A hinged security screen opens outward on its own hinge, matching the opening direction of the casement or awning window. This allows the window and screen to open together for cleaning access, emergency egress or full ventilation when needed.

For properties where the window is above ground level and required as an emergency escape route under NCC Volume Two, a hinged screen with quick release mechanism is required.

What Australian Standard applies?

Any product classified as a security screen must meet Australian Standards AS5039-2023 regardless of the window type it is fitted to. 

This covers:

• Knife Shear Test 
• Pull Test 
• Anti-Jemmy Test 
• Impact Test 
• Probe Test 

AS5039-2023 introduced two new dynamic impact testing categories:

• SL100 – product must withstand five impacts of 100 joules
• SL200 – product must withstand five impacts of 200 joules

All installations must comply with AS5039.2:2024, the current installation standard and be done by a licensed installer.

A security screen that has not been independently tested and labelled to AS5039-2023 is not a security screen, regardless of how it is marketed or what it is made from.

Fall prevention and casement windows

Under NCC Volume Two, openable windows above certain heights must incorporate fall prevention measures. Security screens meeting AS5039-2023 can satisfy this requirement, providing a certified fall prevention solution without restricting ventilation.

For casement windows at height, a CommandeX Kids Fallsafe Screen specifically engineered to withstand 25kg of outward force at three points is the appropriate specification. This meets NCC fall prevention requirements while maintaining the security screen classification.

What to specify for casement windows – SecureView or SaltWaterSeries?

Standard residential environments: Specify SecureView EclipX, 316 marine grade stainless steel mesh, 940 MPa tensile strength, patented fixing system with 3M VHB adhesive, tested to AS5039-2023.

Coastal environments – within 500 metres of coastline: Specify SaltWaterSeries, the same 316 marine grade mesh as SecureView EclipX but with additional protective frame coating independently tested to 3,000 hours under AS2331.3.1. The only dedicated extreme coastal security screen product in Australia. Backed by a 20 year extended warranty.

Both SecureView EclipX and SaltWaterSeries are available as fixed or hinged window screens, custom manufactured to your exact casement or awning window measurements by CommandeX’s licensed dealer network.

For further information read – How to Specify Security Screens for Coastal Australian Builds.

The maximum dimensions for casement window security screens

CommandeX security screen windows are custom manufactured to exact measurements. For standard installations:

• Maximum height – 3,100mm
• Maximum width – 1,310mm

For larger openings a midrail is recommended to maintain mesh tension and compliance.

Getting the specification right

Casement and awning window security screens must be specified correctly from the start, the window type, the opening direction, the hinge placement and the emergency egress requirements all affect the right product and installation approach.

CommandeX’s licensed dealer network across the eastern seaboard is trained in identifying the correct screen configuration for every window type. Every installation is custom manufactured to exact measurements and complies with AS5039.2:2024.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can you put security screens on casement windows? 

Yes, but casement windows require specifically designed security screens. Since casement windows open outwards on a hinge, standard sliding security screens cannot be fitted. Fixed or hinged security screens designed for the casement window configuration are required.

What is the difference between a fixed and hinged security screen for casement windows?

A fixed security screen is permanently attached to the window frame, the window opens behind it for ventilation while the screen remains in place. A hinged security screen opens outward on it own hinge which results in the opening direction of the casement window allowing full access for cleaning or quick exit in case of emergency. 

Do casement window security screens meet AS5039-2023?

Yes, any product classified as a security screen must meet Australian Standards AS5039-2023 regardless of the window type. This includes knife shear, pull, anti-jemmy, impact and probe testing. Products not independently tested to AS5039-2023 are classfied as safety screens, not safety screens. 

What is the maximum size for a casement window security screen?

CommandeX security screen windows have a maximum height of 3,100mm and maximum width of 1,310mm. Height and width are interchangeable. A midrail is recommended for screens over 1,050mm x 2,100mm.

Can I get SaltWaterSeries for casement windows in coastal areas?

Yes, SaltWaterSeries is available for casement and awning window configurations and is specifically recommended for coastal properties within 500 metres of the coastline. The frame coating is independently tested to 3,000 hours under AS2331.3.1.

Do casement window security screens satisfy NCC fall prevention requirements?

Yes, CommandeX security screens meeting AS5039-2023 can satisfy NCC Volume Two fall prevention requirements for openable windows above certain heights. The Kids Fallsafe Screen is specifically engineered to withstand 25kg of outward force at three points for this purpose.