In Australia, security
screen doors have become one of the common features of homes. After all, they
allow better air circulation amidst hot weather whilst preventing pests from
entering the living space. Compared to fly screens, security screen doors are stronger
and sturdier. They can withstand most attempts at forced entry and still retain
the benefits of keeping insects out.
So, what are the basic
things to know about security screen doors? How you can you guarantee that it
will give you enough protection? Well, in this article, we will discuss some of
the important qualities of an authentic security screen door.
Security Screen Doors Must Meet
Australian Standards
When a product is
manufactured according to Australian Standards (AS), it has passed certain
requirements laid out for quality and security. Authentic security screen doors
must meet these standards:
●
AS 5039 – Quality standards for security screen doors
●
AS 5040 – Proper installation of security screen doors
●
AS 5041 – Methods of testing security screen doors
AS 5039 – Quality Standards for
Security Screen Doors
The AS 5039 contains the
specifications which cover the general requirements and performance of security
screen doors. Basically, it specifies the minimum performance requirements for
all types of sliding and hinged security screen doors that are primarily used
in residential applications.
Its primary concern is
the product’s level of resistance to forced entry. It is worth noting that
these standards do not cover important issues related to egress in the event of
an emergency. Regulatory authorities and people involved in the manufacture,
installation and general requirements of security
screen doors can follow the guidelines laid out in AS 5039.
AS 5041 – Methods of Testing Security
Screen Doors
A security door can only
be AS 5039-certified if it has been tested by an accredited laboratory in
accordance with AS 5041. For a product to pass the Standard, it has to meet the
requirements from the following tests:
●
Dynamic Impact Test
●
Jemmy Test
●
Pull Test
●
Probe Test
●
Shear Test
●
Knife Shear Test
AS 5040 – Proper Installation of
Security Screen Doors
The AS 5040 provides
security screen door installers the specifications on how to properly mount the
product. If the door is not installed according to AS 5040, it will not provide
optimum security and other lifestyle benefits.
Other Design and Safety Standards
Apart from the
aforementioned quality standards, there are other certifications that a product
can acquire towards providing other safety benefits. Here are some of those:
AS 3959 – Bushfire Protection
There are several
bushfire areas in Australia. If you live in one of those zones, you must check
if the security screen door you’re planning to install meets the local bushfire
regulations, as well as the AS 3959 requirements. This Standard contains the
specifications for constructing buildings in bushfire-prone areas. Keep in mind
that the wrong flyscreens can burn in a bushfire, causing the rest of your
house to get eaten by flames.
AS 1170.2:2011 Structural Design
Requirements in Cyclone-Prone Areas
In Northern Australia,
cyclones commonly occur. So, if you are situated in this area, it would be best
if your doors are protected from cyclone debris. You can install security
screen doors to protect your glass doors from getting shattered. In this way,
you won’t have to ‘batten down the hatches’ whenever you hear news of an
oncoming storm. You will have the protection you need at all times, even when
you are out of town.
There are different
requirements and test methods for structural design, depending on the wind
action in a specific cyclonic region in Australia. When you are going to buy a
security screen door, make sure that the product complies with the requirements
laid in your area.
How to Know if a Supplier
Complies with Australian Standards
When you search for
security screen door suppliers, you will discover that you are spoilt for
choice. However, not all of them offer products that comply with Australian
Standards. So, it is important that you carefully research about the supplier
and ensure that you are making an informed decision.
One of the best
indications that a supplier is reliable and credible is if they are a member of
the National Security Screen Association (NSSA). For a supplier to retain their
NSSA membership status, they have to comply with Australian Standards.
