Security Screens vs Fly Screens: What’s the Difference?
A security screen is a reinforced barrier designed to prevent forced entry while still allowing airflow. A fly screen is a lightweight insect screen that keeps bugs out but offers no security. Security screens use high-tensile mesh and heavy-duty frames, while fly screens use lighweight frames with basic fibreglass mesh.
What is a security screen?
A security screen is a reinforced barrier made from high-tensile stainless steel mesh or perforated aluminium sheet with a heavy-duty aluminium frame. It is designed to resist forced entry, impact, cutting and jemmying while still allowing airflow. Security screens include triple locks, tamper-resistant fixings and bushfire-rated materials.
What is a fly screen?
A fly screen is a lightweight insect screen designed to keep flies, mozzies and bugs out. It uses simple aluminium or fibreglass mesh and a basic lightweight frame. Fly screens allow airflow but do not provide security, impact resistance or intruder protection.
Which is better: a security screen or a fly screen?
Security screens are better if you need safety, strength, child protection, pet durability or bushfire compliance. Fly screens are ideal if you only need a low-cost insect barrier. Many Australian homes use both — security screens on doors and fly screens on low-risk windows.
Why security screens cost more than fly screens
Security screens are more expensive because they use:
- High-tensile stainless steel mesh
- Heavy-duty frames with a patented security rated fixing method
- Security-grade triple locks
- Anti-jemmy features
- Corrosion-resistant materials
- Compliance testing (impact, knife shear, salt spray, bushfire ratings)
Fly screens use simple mesh and basic frames, so they are cheaper to manufacture and install.
Are security screens worth it?
Yes. Security screens offer year-round ventilation and help keep your home safe without needing to lock yourself inside. They also prevent falls from high windows and can add value to your home — especially if you choose premium brands like SecureView or SaltWater Series.
Can you replace fly screens with security screens?
Yes. The entire fly screen door or window would be removed and replaced with a new custom fitted security screen. Security screen mesh cannot be fitted into a lightweight fly frame as it requires a heavy duty security screen frame . SP Screens can assess your window or door and recommend the right solution for safety, bushfire compliance, ventilation and durability.
| Security Screens | Fly Screens | |
| Child Safety | Yes, barrier mesh cannot be torn or pushed through | No, flimsy mesh can be torn and fallen through |
| Pet Resistant | Yes – claw-proof | Generally no however, pet mesh is optional |
| Suitable For | Windows, doors and patio enclosures | Windows, doors and patio enclosures |
| Locks | Triple Lock | Single Lock |
| Mesh Type | Stainless steel (e.g. 316), perforated aluminium | Fibreglass or aluminium |
| Primary Purpose | Security + airflow | Insect protection only |
| Strength Level | High – withstands impact & jemmying | Low – flimsy and tears easily |
| Child Safety | High – barrier mesh cannot be pushed through or torn | Low – flimsy mesh tears under pressure |
| Frame Strength | Heavy-duty, tested to meet Australian security standards | Light aluminium |
| Bushfire Rating | Available up to BAL 40 or FZ | Generally BAL Low. Option for Bushfire proof mesh |
No. Fly screens are not designed to support weight and can pop out if a child leans on them. Security screens provide fall-prevention strength.
Yes. Security screens keep out insects and intruders because the mesh is tightly woven and high strength.
Yes. Security screens are highly pet-resistant and won’t tear like fly screen mesh
No. Fly screens offer zero security, and intruders can easily remove or cut them.
| Screen Type | Approx. Cost Range (AU) |
| Security screens | Approximately $1400 per door • Approximately $450 per window |
| Fly screens | Approximately $160 per window • Approximately $500 per door |
Final Recommendation
Choose security screens if you need protection, durability and peace of mind. Choose fly screens if you only need an affordable insect barrier. For most Australian homes, a combination works best — security screens on doors and most windows. Use fly screens on windows where break and enter poses no threat and there is no risk of a child falling out of the window and causing injury.
Book a Free Measure & Quote
SP Screens installs security screens and fly screens across:
Share