Want to feel safe, protect your belongings, enjoy fresh air and keep insects out? If so, you may be wanting security doors and screens.
Not all security doors and windows are equal. Some suppliers use the term ‘security’ loosely. It’s best to select products that meet the Australian Standard (AS) 5039-2008. And it’s best to have them professionally installed. This means in line with AS5040.
Choosing a reputable installer can be challenging. This is because many products are on the market. Some are made of aluminum or steel. Some have better frames and higher quality infill, hinges and locks. Prices vary widely.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a security door and screen installer, and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great security door and screen installer?
Having the right security door and screen supplier will give you peace of mind. This is because poor installation of even the best door on the market, won’t work effectively. It will leave you, well, insecure.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a security door and screen installer.
- Quality products. As indicated, not all security doors and screens are equal. Look for an installer with quality products. These are products that provide genuine security, not ones just claiming to do so.
- Reputation and experience. Choose a security door and screen company with a great reputation and installation experience. Check online for reviews. Head to company websites for testimonials. Find out how long they’ve been in the business.
- Warranty and guarantee. Check out the product warranty and ask for a written guarantee before you buy. Some products have short warranties and others, say, up to 15 years.
- Professional membership and licensed. Quality security door and screen companies belong to at least one professional body. This could include the National Security Screen Association or the Australian Security Industry Association.
- Price. Many security doors and screens are expensive, and others are cheaper. Talk to suppliers about cost and what you’re paying for. That includes installation. The last thing you need is to be surprised by hidden costs or fees.
The best security door and screens in Canberra
RiotACT’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on RiotACT and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Monaro Screens
Monaro Screens specialises in Crimsafe security screens, doors and emergency exits—the ultimate protection.
Crimsafe’s patented Screw-Clamp Technology and Tensile-Tuff mesh far exceeds Australian standards. It is up to seven times stronger than other security screens and doors and can withstand forces up to 3,000 kilograms. Monaro Screens carries Crimsafe because their stainless steel security doors are the strongest in Australia. As the saying goes, “If it’s not Crimesafe, it’s not crim safe.”
Features of Crimsafe products go well beyond security. The premium product range offered through Monaro Screens is energy efficient, has unhindered views, lets fresh air and breezes in and keeps insects out. Crimsafe also offers all protection from heights. Other benefits include fire protection and an extended warranty of up to 15 years.
Monaro Screens carries a flexible range of Crimsafe products and styles, with an option to suit every home and décor. The wide range of door, with options to fit every size and style of opening, include hinged, sliding, French, bi-fold and stacking. Monaro Screen’s window range includes fixed, hinged, sliding and emergency exits.
Founded in 1994, Monaro Screens is passionate about customer service and timely delivery and installation. This locally owned business only supplies high-quality, Australian-made and designed products. Monaro Screens offers a free measure and quote.
On Google, Jelena Milosavljevic wrote, “The best customer service … I'm extremely happy with my Crimsafe screen door, installation and the affordable price.”
Valley Security Doors and Screens
Valley Security Doors and Screens, in business for over 35 years, has a wide range to suit all needs. The Prowler Proof range is Australia’s only welded security screen. It’s a superior product at a competitive price. Doors and screens come in different styles and some are almost invisible. They come in 50 standard and over 250 optional colours. All have a 10-year warranty.
Mark Fowler wrote on Google, “We had two siding security doors installed. Everything I want from a tradesman, quality advice, reasonable price and on time, no fuss.”
Sentinel Security & Technology Group
Sentinel Security & Technology Group (SSTG) specialises in security doors and screens that exceed Australian standards. An authorised supplier of Crimsafe, SSTG’s range includes Crimsafe iQ, which is the strongest stainless steel security screen door in Australia. SSTG also sells, installs and maintains Crimsafe’s fixed, hinged, sliding and Safe-S-Cape security windows. Windows can be made for all shapes, sizes and configurations.
Ben Ligacs wrote on Google, “I purchased security screen doors from SSTG and highly recommend them. They’re responsive, punctual …”
Watson Blinds and Awnings
Watson Blinds and Awnings sell Crimsafe screen doors and windows. Crimsafe is seven times stronger than the Australian security standard. Made in Australia, Crimsafe can withstand force up to 3,000 kilograms. They’re 53 per cent more energy efficient than some other products. In addition, they have a 10 to 15-year guarantee. Watson offers an extensive range of these world-leading security screen doors and windows.
Karen Murray wrote on Google, “Absolutely love our new Crimsafe Security Door. Watson Blinds and Awnings were great to deal with. The installation was quick and easy. Highly recommend.”
Mitchell Aluminium
Canberra’s only Amplimesh security doors and screens supplier is Mitchell Aluminium. Their range includes the newly designed SupaScreen products, designed for maximum security and comfort. Supascreen also offers unobstructed outdoor views. Mitchell Aluminium’s security doors and screens are cost-effective and stylish. Established in 1985, Michell Aluminium holds a Master Security License. They’re a member of the Australian Security Industry Association.
On Google, Shawn Jones wrote, “We had a new security screen door measured, quoted and installed so quickly.”
If you’re looking for more information on home or business security in Canberra, you might like our articles on the best security alarm monitoring companies Canberra has to offer. And, should a new door be on order check out our article on the best door suppliers in the region.
Your experience with security doors and screens in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the security doors and screens listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Aren’t security doors and screens more or less the same?
No they aren’t. Some products say they're ‘security’ but they’re not capable of keeping burglars out. Research the type of screen. Also research the components like the frame, infill, hinges and locks. You can also check product testing. Finally, look at installation. Criminals can break in through a top-quality security door or screen that’s badly installed.
Are there Australian standards for security doors and screens?
Yes there are but not all products meet these standards. The product should meet the Australian Standard (AS) 5039-2008. Professional installation should be in line with AS5040.
What makes a quality security door or screen?
It’s essential to research before buying a security door or screen. Some reviews say products made of welded iron or steel, that have high tamper-resistant features, are the best. It’s important to also consider the quality of hinges, locks and other components.
What are the advantages of security doors and windows?
Quality security doors and screens—properly installed—offer many advantages. For example, they allow air to flow through, light to come in and they let you enjoy the view—all while feeling safe. In addition to keeping bugs and debris out, they also aim to keep burglars out.
How much do security doors and screens cost?
This varies on many factors. Look at the quality of the product and individual components. Also look at overall construction and how it’s going to be installed. These and other factors influence cost. Some security screen doors are more expensive than others, but quality ones can live up to their promise.