Screens for Australian Homes: A Complete Guide
Choosing the right screens for your Australian home can feel overwhelming — especially with so many options on the market. This guide explains the different types of home screens available in Australia so you can confidently choose the best solution for your home, lifestyle and location.
Different homes have different screen needs. The best option depends on what you’re trying to achieve:
If you want screens to/for… |
Recommended screen type |
| Prevent break-ins | Security Screens |
| Insect protection only | Standard Fly Screens |
| Open doors and windows for ventilation while home remains secure | Security Screens |
| Windows higher than 2m above ground level | Security Window Screens |
| Awning or casement windows | Smooth Retractable Fly Screens |
| Wide patio areas or bi-fold, french or stacker doors. | Pleated Retractable Fly Screens |
| Bushfire prone areas | Security Screens or Fly Screens tested to bushfire protection AS3959-2009 satisfying the requirements for bushfire attack level (BAL) 12.5,19,29,40, FZ |
| Cyclone prone areas | Security Screens tested to cyclone protection Australian Standard 2010:AS/NZS1170.2 |
| Pet-proof | Security Screens, Barrier Screens, Fly Screens with pet-proof mesh |
| Patio, alfresco or garage areas | Retractable fly Screens (smooth or pleated) |
| Pet door installed | Barrier screen door |
| Keep out the smallest midges | Midge mesh screens with a small hole aperture (midge mesh available in security screens, fly screens, retractable fly screens, barrier screens) |
| Secure from the outside but openable from the inside | Emergency escape screens |
Types of screens for Australian homes
Security Screens
Security screens are designed to protect your home against break-ins while allowing ventilation and insect protection. They feature strong reinforced frames and high-strength mesh such as woven stainless steel or aluminium perforated panels. Security Screens are tested to meet Australian Security Standard (AS5039 – 2008) which stipulates a range of scientific tests that a security product must pass in order to remain in this class.
Common uses:
- Front doors (visitors to the home can be vetted safely before allowing entry)
- Sliding doors & stackable sliding doors
- Ground floor windows (to protect against break-ins)
- High windows 2m above ground level (to protect against window falls)
Pleated Retractable Fly Screens
Pleated retractable fly screens are popular because the screen mesh is capable of spanning wider spaces to cover the largest doorways. The mesh has greater structure and is more durable than the smooth retractable mesh and the pleats create a nice visual effect which makes the mesh more visible to prevent people and pets walking through the mesh and damaging the screen.
Common uses:
- Stacker doors
- French doors
- Bifold doors
- Pivot doors
- Alfresco & patio areas
- Large sliding openings
Smooth Retractable Fly Screens
Smooth retractable fly screens are commonly used to screen windows such as casement and awning windows which are difficult to screen with a standard fly screen. The screen mesh is fine and clear for unobstructed window views.
Common uses:
- Casement windows
- Awning windows
Fly Screens
Standard fly screens keep insects out while allowing airflow. They are best suited for low-risk areas where security strength is not required to prevent break ins or window falls.
Fibreglass Mesh – Most popular and cost effective fly screen mesh
Pet Proof Mesh – Harder wearing than fibreglass, ideal for pets
Bushfire Approved Mesh – A stronger mesh approved for use in fire zone areas
Midge Mesh – Smaller hole aperture is designed to keep out the smallest of biting insects.
Common uses:
- Single-hinged doors
- Double-hinged doors
- Single sliding doors
- Double sliding doors
- Multi-stacking sliding doors
- Window screens
Barrier Screens (also known as safety screens)
Barrier screens may take the form of diamond-grille designs or resemble traditional security screens — using woven stainless steel mesh or perforated aluminium. While they provide increased strength and enhanced home safety, they are not certified under Australian Security Standard AS5039–2008. As a result, barrier screens are considered a mid-range option: stronger than standard fly screens but without the security rating of full security screens.
Common uses:
- Front doors
- Bedroom windows
- Laundry doors & windows
- Upper floor windows
How to choose the right screen company
When selecting a screen supplier, look for:
- Australian standards compliance
- Professional installation
- Workmanship guarantee
- Product warranties
- Local service coverage
- Experience with your screen type
This depends on your priorities. For security, choose security screens. For insect protection only, fly screens are suitable. For large openings, retractable fly screens are often the best option.
Yes. Many Australian homes use security screens on door and window openings that are regularly used and accessible and fly screens less used or unreachable areas for both security and cost efficiency.
Retractable screens are ideal for large or modern openings where aesthetics matter. Fixed screens are better for standard windows and doors.
This depends on the strength and quality of the screen installed. Fly screens are flimsy and easy to rip or tear whereas professionally installed security screens may look great for 10–20 years depending on environment and maintenance.
Start by identifying what problem you’re trying to solve:
• Security
• Insects
• Ventilation
• Privacy
• Appearance
Once you know that, choosing the right screen becomes much easier.
You can then book a professional measure and quote to determine the most suitable solution for your home.
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