Security screen (AS 5039)
Security screen is a hinged or sliding screen over an external door, tested to AS 5039.1 for impact, anti-jemmy, knife shear and pull. Three-point lock typical.
Ask Chalkline about this →A security screen in Australian residential construction is a hinged or sliding screen door fitted over a main external door (and equivalent grilles fitted over windows), providing physical security against forced entry plus insect screening in a single product. The Australian Standard AS 5039.1:2023 sets the performance classification and required test results; compliant products carry an AS 5039 certificate and are commonly required by home contents insurers as a condition of theft cover (verified 2026-05-16).
The four AS 5039.1 performance tests:
- Impact test: a heavy bag dropped against the screen at increasing energies; the screen must not deform or detach within the rated impact.
- Anti-jemmy test: a crowbar applied to leverage the screen open; the screen must resist for a rated time without failing.
- Knife shear test: a knife or blade attempted to cut through the mesh; rated mesh must resist.
- Pull test: continuous pulling force on the mesh and frame, simulating an intruder gripping and pulling.
Each tested product gets a classification (typically “Security screen door” for compliant tested doors, “Insect screen” for non-rated screens). Insurers commonly require AS 5039-compliant doors on every external opening; insect-only screens do not meet the contractual standard.
Common types in Australian residential:
| Type | Mesh | Frame | Cost band |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel mesh on aluminium frame (Crimsafe, ScreenGuard) | 0.9 mm stainless | Aluminium with internal stainless | $700-1,500 per door |
| Marine-grade steel grille (perforated steel) | Solid steel | Steel frame | $500-1,200 per door |
| Diamond-pattern steel mesh | Welded steel rod | Aluminium or steel | $400-800 per door |
| Decorative steel grille | Steel pattern | Aluminium | $400-700 per door |
| Insect screen only (not security) | Aluminium or fibreglass | Aluminium | $150-300 per door (NOT AS 5039) |
Lock requirements on a compliant security screen:
- Three-point locking (lock engages at top, middle, and bottom of the door) is the market standard. Five-point locking is available on higher-spec doors.
- Lock cylinder rated to AS 4145.2 for mechanical durability (commonly 5-star or higher star rating per AS 4145).
- Hinge side reinforced to prevent hinge-removal attacks.
- Glass-doored security screens must use AS 1288 Grade A glazing where in a human impact zone.
Where security screens are required (insurance and DDA):
- Home contents and home building insurance typically requires AS 5039-compliant screens on every external entry point as a condition of theft cover.
- Bushfire-prone-area builds may have a separate ember-screening requirement under AS 3959 that interacts with security screening.
- DDA-rated accommodation requires accessible-operable handles on security screens (lever, not knob, satisfying AS 1428.1).
Common defects:
- Insect screen substituted for tested security screen during construction. Insurer claim repudiated at first incident.
- Three-point lock fitted but the bolt strikes the frame at one or more points are loose, defeating the lockup.
- Hinge-side screws too short, allowing the hinge to be levered out.
- Compliant door + non-compliant frame attachment to the wall (frame pulled out, screen door comes with it).
Also known as: Crimsafe (brand-misuse generic); security door; safety screen; AS 5039 screen.
Category: Materials.
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Last updated: 2026-05-16. Verified: 2026-05-16. Quarterly review for currency.