BUYING A SECURITY DOOR
There is a significant difference between a security door and a barrier or safety door, and there are a number of key features to consider when purchasing the right security doors for your home.
AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS
The term ''Security Door'' can only be used if the door can be shown to meet the Australian Standards.
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AS 5039.2:2024 Security Screen Installation is a performance-based standard that provides guidance to ensure installations meet the requirements of AS 5039.1:2023. Screens installed according to AS 5039.2:2024 are designed to withstand tests outlined in AS 5039.3:2023, including: knife shear, jemmy, probe, corrosion, pull and impact.
In November 2023 Standards Australia published new Performance and Testing Standards for security screens in Australia.
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AS5039.1:2023 Security door and window screens, Part 1 Classification and performance, supersedes AS5039:2008.
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AS5039.3:2023 Security door and window screens, Part 3 Methods of test, supersedes AS5041:2003.
LOCKS
A 3- point lock is standard with a compliant security door and should not be considered an 'add on'.
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A 3-point lock is likely to prevent the bottom or top of the door being wrenched open,
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Key locks should be 5-pin cylinder as a minimum.
INFILL
The infill can be made from:
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Steel (decorative motive or grilles)
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Aluminium grille
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Aluminium perforated sheet
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Stainless steel mesh
FRAME
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The frame should have a deep, sturdy receiver channel to prevent the grille from being easily pushed out, with a strong connection to the main frame.
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The corners should be reinforced with either internal corner stakes or fully welded joints for maximum strength.
HINGES
The security door should have at least three fixed-pin hinges, ideally recessed or with hinge fillings to prevent tampering or jimmying.
COMPLIANCE LABEL
NSSA members are required to label all security screen products that meet Australian Standard AS 5039.
Security Doors must be supplied and installed with a Compliance Label.
If it is not labelled, it is NOT a security door.
PROTECTION FROM CORROSION
If you live in a coastal area, you should consider corrosion resistance. Marine-grade 316 stainless steel mesh is designed to prevent rust and ensure durability.
INSTALLATION
DO NOT DIY!
Installing the Australian Standard AS 5039.2:2024, is just as important as the security door itself.
The Standard AS 5039:024 provides guidelines and requirements that must be followed when installing security screen products.
It is highly recommended you do not DIY!
IS YOUR INSTALLER LICENSED?
There are two types of licenses:
- Building License
- Security License
A licensed installer is qualified and authorised to carry out the work.
Licensing varies for States and Territories and in some states a license is not required.
If unsure, contact the NSSA.
COMPANY REPUTATION
Always use an NSSA Member. Our Members are:
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Audited
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Trained
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Up to date with the latest information
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Reputable
CHOICE, also recommends you select a member of the NSSA.
NON-COMPLIANCE
BARRIER DOOR OR SAFETY DOOR
Unlike security doors, a barrier door does not meet rigorous safety and performance testing and standards. A barrier door lacks the necessary strength and durability to provide reliable protection.
PET DOORS
Once a pet door is installed within a security door, it is no longer compliant with Australian Standards, as the opening compromises the security of the door.
NO COMPLIANCE LABEL
If it is not labelled with an Australian Standards Compliance Label, it's not compliant. It is that simple.
