Updating and renovating a home means more than just applying a coat of paint. It means keeping the character of the existing house but making it fit with our current lifestyle. This includes improving security by installing high quality security screens, grilles and doors.
But how do you choose windows and doors that make your home and contents more secure, and look good too?
It is possible to have security that looks subtle and in character with your house. One option is to invest in stainless steel mesh. The mesh is strong enough to withstand attack and you don’t have to look at bars or grilles.
Using security mesh may cost a little more but it means you can get the look you want for your home. Views aren’t interrupted by bars and you also get the added bonus of insect screening.
And did you know that steel frame security doors don’t have to look like metal security doors? These days they can be cast into colonial styles or can be set into solid wood frames so that you only see timber. Similarly, if you want security windows, the bars can be set into timber so that the window looks just like a traditional four, six or eight pane type.
If you want your home to look more secure, as well as prevent unauthorised entry, then you may want to get standard steel security bars, grilles or doors. Installing bars mean that it is possible to open any old-fashioned casement or double hung windows. And the advantage of grilles is that you can feel secure while still letting fresh air into your home.
What about shutters? Some of the internal shutters can now be made of metal and lockable and they may help with security. Similarly, window privacy screens can be fixed close to the window, making it difficult for a person to fit between the screen and the open window. However you need to check if these comply with Australian Standards.
Up to standard
Any security doors or windows you buy should meet the current Australian Standard (AS 5039) or else they may not be strong enough to deter thieves. The Standard applies to the door as a whole, including the hinges, grilles, corner joints, screws, locks and rivets. You can’t have a door that meets the Standard if, for example, the hinges aren’t to Standard too.
Many manufacturers label their doors and windows as compliant. Make sure you check and get a written guarantee if there is no label.
Also, the installation of the security doors and windows needs to be to Australian Standard (AS 5040).
Find a local company
Use our directory to find a Brisbane-based supplier and installer of security doors and windows.
Insurance considerations
Installing proper security isn’t cheap. However, it may reduce your home insurance premiums, plus give you much greater peace of mind.
Make sure that you update your home insurance policy to reflect the real cost of rebuilding your home in case of fire or other disaster. Take into account the expensive security measures you’ve added when calculating how much home insurance coverage you need.
Want to know more?
Read the article from Choice about the standards for security doors and windows.
Queensland Homes magazine has an article about some local security window and door manufacturers, including wrought iron.
Feeling adventurous? Take a look at the security grilles and doors that can be custom made in wrought iron by Brisbane company, Art of Steel.
Our upcoming feature on locks will give you more information about the types of locks to use in conjunction with other security measures.
Plus, the Queensland Police website has useful and practical security tips These include making sure at least one of the window security screens opens from the inside so you can quickly escape in case of emergency.
