Secure your home with Security Screens & Doors

One of the biggest signs of a break-in is tampered doors or windows—nearly half of all break-in attempts show some kind of damage, with over 90,000 incidents recorded. That tells us one thing: securing your doors and windows is absolutely essential. And one of the simplest ways to do that is by installing proper security screens.

What’s surprising, though, is how many homes still don’t take this basic step. According to the ABS, only 45% of Western Australian households had security screens on their external doors and windows as far back as 2005. And more recently, an article from April 2024 reported that 1 in 10 WA homes experienced a break-in—that’s almost double the national average of 2.6%.

If you’re not already using security screens, now’s the time to consider them. In this article, I’ll walk you through exactly what they are, why they matter, and how to choose the right ones for your home.

What Exactly Are Security Screens & Doors?

Like most people, I’ve always had concerns about home security—especially now that I’m a father. But since installing security screens and doors around my home, I’ve genuinely been able to relax. They’ve added an extra layer of protection that lets me sleep easier at night. I don’t have to worry about someone getting in, because I know they’d have to get past a serious barrier first.

Now, I’ll admit—I hesitated at first. I wasn’t keen on turning my house into something that looked like a jail. But I was pleasantly surprised. The modern security screens I installed didn’t compromise the look of my home one bit. They’re sleek and subtle, not big and bulky. They keep us safe without ruining the style.

Strong Protection Without Sacrificing Style

So what are security screens and doors? In simple terms, they’re heavy-duty mesh panels that are fixed onto window and door frames. They allow airflow and a clear view outside—without ugly bars or grilles. But most importantly, they’re built to stop intruders.

The good ones (and I do mean good ones—cheap knock-offs won’t cut it) come with reinforced corners, three-point locks, and triple hinges. I remember trying to test the strength of mine after installation—putting my shoulder into it to see how strong it really was. Let’s just say I lost that round. Badly. And I’ve never been happier to lose.

Security screens are usually mounted in a solid aluminium or steel frame, which needs to be rigid and well-fixed to the existing structure. That’s where a lot of the strength comes from.

And just to put your mind at ease—yes, they can be opened from the inside in an emergency. Most models come with an internal escape latch for fast access if needed.

Now that you know what they are and why they matter, let’s dive into what to look for when buying security screens for your Perth home.

What to Look for When Buying Security Screens & Doors

There are so many types of security screens and doors out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. I’ve been through it myself—and I can tell you, knowing what to look for can save you a lot of time, money, and regret.

So here’s what matters most:

1. Check for Australian Standards

The most important step. Only choose products that meet Australian Standards AS5039-2008 (for security) and AS5040 (for installation). If a screen or door doesn’t clearly advertise these standards—don’t touch it. It won’t offer proper protection.

2. Make sure the frame is solid

The frame should feel strong and be built to take a hit. Look for a deep receiver channel—this helps stop the mesh or grille from being pushed out. Reinforced corners are essential too, but they’re hard to spot yourself. That’s why I always recommend buying from a trusted local supplier—like us at Ross’s Discount Home Centre.

3. Choose the right mesh or grille

Go for structural-grade aluminium mesh or stainless steel mesh. These give you excellent security without blocking your view or airflow. Steel bars and grilles are also available, but to be honest, I think they make your home look more like a prison than a home.

4. Go for thick, well-fixed grilles

If you’re going with a grille style, make sure it’s thick and tightly fixed to the frame. The thicker the grille, the harder it is to force open. Strength here is key.

5. Prioritise lock and hinge quality

Your security door should have at least three hinges with fixed pins, and a five-pin cylinder lock. These are the components that keep the door locked and anchored, even under pressure.

6. Match your style

Once you’ve ticked the safety boxes, choose a style that suits your home. I went for a modern galvanised steel design with a powder-coated finish. There are plenty of colours to choose from, so you can get the look right without compromising on security.

With these points in mind, you’ll be able to choose a security screen or door that actually does what it’s supposed to do—keep you safe, without making your house feel like a bunker.

How Much Do Security Screens & Doors Cost in Perth?

The cost of security screens and doors depends on the material and quality. For a high-quality aluminium security door that meets Australian Standards, prices usually start from around $825. If you’re after something tougher, like a 316 marine-grade stainless steel screen door, expect to pay from $850 and up.

Remember—higher quality and added customisation will increase the price. But when it comes to protecting your home and family, this isn’t an area to cut corners.

Where to Buy Security Screens & Doors in Perth

By now, you should have a good idea of what to look for—and where to find it.

While there are plenty of suppliers out there claiming to offer “high-quality” security screens, many don’t actually meet Australian Standards. That’s a huge red flag.

If you’re in Perth, come and see us at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. We’ve built a solid reputation over the years for offering top-quality products at unbeatable prices. Our security screens and doors are:

• Fully tested to meet Australian Standards
• Backed by trusted manufacturer warranties
• Covered by our own in-house satisfaction guarantee

These are special-order items, so you won’t find them on our website. That’s because each one is custom-made to fit your home. To order, just visit our showroom in Guildford or give us a call—we’ll sort you out.

Conclusion

If there’s one thing I’ve learnt over the years—both on the job and at home—it’s that you can’t put a price on peace of mind. Installing quality security screens and doors is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home. Not only do they add a strong layer of protection, but they also give you that sense of security we all want—especially if you’ve got kids, or you’re away from home often.

Just make sure you’re getting the real deal. Always check for Australian Standards, and steer clear of cheap imitations that won’t do much more than keep out flies.

And if you’re ready to upgrade your home security, come see us at Ross’s Discount Home Centre in Guildford. Along with custom security screens and doors, we also stock a wide range of aluminium doors and windows—ideal if you’re doing a full renovation or looking to improve your home’s overall security and energy efficiency. We’ll help you choose the right doors and windows to suit your home, your style, and your budget—without any of the stress.