Let’s run through the different security screen grades on the market to show you where some other manufacturers or installers cut corners. Too often, we’ll hear how a customer thought they were buying a security door or screen but when it got ripped apart in a home burglary realised too late that they only purchased safety screens.
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This page will help you make true apples-to-apples comparisons by giving you a detailed understanding of the Security Screen & Door grades Starline Security offers. On the other hand, if you need help deciding which grade is best matched to your needs, go here.
With over 25 years of experience manufacturing and installing security screens and doors, you can rely on Starline Security to recommend the best screen suited to your budget, lifestyle and surroundings.
We like to emphasise the critical differences between these grades when we come around for an inspection and quote. We want our customers to know what they are buying. When comparing quotes, we recommend our customers review the specifications of each before deciding.
Give us a call on to learn more about why a higher security screen rating matters.
Safety grade screens and doors are arguably the most popular grade of screen or door sold in Australia. They are designed to economically keep the insects out and your pets and children safe. Builders love them because they comply with the AS “Protection of Openable Windows / Fall Prevention” building regulation. Consumers love them because they are less expensive than the higher grades and this grade is often all they require. Our Basix, Diamond Grille, Xceed and SecureView screens and doors will all meet this standard easily.
Safety grade window screens can be identified where there is a minimum of fixings holding the screen to the window frame. Usually less than 8 fixings for the whole window screen and depending upon the size as well. The minimum requirement to comply with a Safety window screen is two fixings. Safety grade hinged doors typically have two hinges and a single lock. Safety grade sliding doors often only have two wheels and a single lock.
The next most popular grade is the Barrier grade of screen or door. We believe most window screens and triple lock doors sold in Australia are Barrier grade. The majority of screens and doors are manufactured to pass “AS- Security screen doors and security window grilles” but they are too often not installed to pass “AS- Installation of security screen door and window grilles” or have not been installed in the same or an “equivalently similar way” to that with which their “as tested” sample was installed when they tested their screen or door as per “AS- Methods of test – Security screen doors and window grilles requirements“. In other words: If a company tests a door one way, and it passes, then that is the way that you need to install it to your customer house. Not some other “cheaper” or “easier” way.
This may seem like we are splitting hairs, but where installation method compromises are made or standards not adhered to then the screen or door cannot be called a Security grade screen or door. We feel that it must be called and sold as a Barrier grade door even if in most situations it still passes all the security screen and door standards. So that is what we do. If we cannot be absolutely certain that our screen or door is going to pass all the Security grade standards easily then we defer to conservatism and sell our screens and doors as Barrier grade.
Identifying the difference between a Safety screen and Barrier screen is easy.
Identifying the difference between a Barrier screen and a Security screen is much more difficult. So, instead of trying to do that, we have made it easier for you to identify a Security grade screen or door sold and installed by Starline Security.
Security grade screens and doors must pass all three Australian standards mentioned in the Barrier grade description to be called a Security screen or Security door. But we go much further than just passing these standards. With all Security Grade products, we take a holistic approach and consider your Security grade screen or door from all perspectives. We think:
Ok. So, I hope it is clear that Starline Security goes to extreme lengths to ensure that if you buy a Security Grade screen or door from us then you are actually getting installed a very strong Security screen or door. We will never sell you a Security grade door that does not use the best possible construction strength and installation method possible.
They are more expensive than Safety or Barrier Grades but what price do you put on the security of your family? Selecting a Security Grade screen or door from Starline Security says that you have purchased the best of the best and you did all that you could to make your home as safe and secure as it possibly can be.
If you have any questions or would like more information about the different security screen types, please get in touch with Starline Security. Call .
Major brands like Jeld-Wen, Masonite, and Pella offer a range of entry doors in different materials, each with distinct advantages depending on your budget, climate, and design preferences.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass doors are a popular choice for their durability, versatility, and low maintenance. They come in smooth finishes or embossed wood-grain textures that can closely resemble real wood.
Pros: Fiberglass doors resist wear and tear better than steel doors and can withstand weather without warping, cracking, or rusting. They can be painted or stained, they’re generally dent-resistant, and they provide solid insulation. Fiberglass doors fall in the middle range price-wise, making them a practical choice.
Cons: Fiberglass doors are sturdy but can crack under a high-impact force, especially in extreme cold. And although they can resemble wood, they lack the rich, authentic look and feel of real wood.
Steel
Steel doors, accounting for about half the market, are a solid option for those prioritizing security and affordability.
Pros: Known for their strength, steel doors offer superior security and can be a highly weather-resistant, low-maintenance option. They’re energy-efficient and come in a variety of styles, with or without glass panels. They’re also the most budget-friendly, giving you security and insulation at a fraction of the cost of wood or high-end fiberglass.
Cons: Steel doors are prone to dents, which can be difficult to repair, and scratches that, if left untreated, may lead to rust. They generally don’t weather as well as fiberglass under heavy abuse or extreme weather, so they may require regular touch-ups to maintain their appearance.
Wood
Wood entry doors are prized for their traditional, high-end look, exuding natural warmth and beauty.
Pros: Solid-wood doors generally hold up well against wear and tear and resist dents. Scratches can be easily sanded out. They’re the most customizable, with options for intricate paneling and rich finishes, and they offer a natural look that adds curb appeal to a range of home styles.
Cons: Wood doors are typically the most expensive option, and they require regular maintenance, such as painting or varnishing, to protect against moisture and sun damage. Without proper upkeep, wood can warp, swell, or crack, especially in extreme climates.
Manufacturers offer a range of customizable features for entry doors, including panels, glass inserts, grille patterns, sidelights, and transoms. Each option can add style and function to your door, though some may also add to the cost. Here’s what to look for.
Adjustable Threshold
An adjustable threshold keeps your door weather-tight over time, especially as your home settles or materials expand and contract with the seasons. Without one, you’ll likely need to add a new door sweep to block drafts and moisture. Adjustable thresholds are a smart way to stave off rain, wind, and insects.
Glass
Glass inserts bring in natural light and enhance curb appeal, but they can increase the cost of the door and lower its insulating qualities. (For better insulation, look for double- or triple-pane glass with low-emissivity—low-E—coatings to help reduce heat transfer.) If you’re choosing a door with glass panels near the handle or sidelights, consider a double-cylinder deadbolt lock. This type of lock requires a key on both sides, so a burglar can’t break the glass, reach in, and unlock the door. Just check your local codes first because some areas restrict these locks due to emergency exit concerns.
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Rails and Stiles
Rails and stiles are the horizontal and vertical parts that brace and stabilize a door (typically wood). Solid wood rails and stiles can sometimes warp or bow in humid conditions, so if durability is a priority, go for laminated wood cores covered with veneer. This construction resists warping and keeps your door’s structure sound over time.
Weather Stripping
Quality weather stripping makes a big difference in keeping your entry door energy-efficient. Instead of foam, look for durable materials like silicone or rubber, which provide a stronger seal against drafts and moisture. Some doors come with weather stripping installed, while others may require adding or upgrading strips to provide a tight seal.
Start online
Choosing the right entry door is becoming more convenient and precise, thanks to online tools that allow you to visualize options on your home. Many manufacturer sites now feature 360-degree product views, changeable finish options, and augmented reality tools that help you picture different models in place. But there’s no substitute for an in-store visit to feel (or kick) a door to see if it’s up to snuff. Even if an exact model isn’t available, seeing and feeling the quality of similar doors can give you a reliable sense of construction and finish.
Consider energy efficiency
Steel and fiberglass doors generally offer better insulation than wood doors because of their dense, insulated cores. Models that are Energy Star qualified must undergo independent testing and certification, and typically include features like tighter-fitting frames and advanced weather stripping. For doors with glass, options with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings and double- or triple-pane glass further reduce heat transfer, limiting both heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.
If you need an extra incentive to invest in an energy-saving door, note that certain models may qualify for the federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit. Available through , the credit allows homeowners to deduct up to 30 percent of the cost of a qualifying door from their taxes, up to a maximum annual limit.
It’s worth noting that heat loss typically occurs more often through air leaks around an entry door than through the door itself, making proper sealing as important as the door’s insulation value. And entry doors themselves are a relatively small part of a home’s surface area, so their impact on energy savings may be modest compared with other improvements.
Plan for installation
Entry doors typically come prehung in a frame and drilled for a knob and deadbolt, for a simpler installation. For a straightforward replacement, matching the size of your existing door saves time and effort. Upgrading to a larger door or adding sidelights will probably require reframing the opening, work best handled by a contractor because it involves structural modifications.
Most big-box home stores offer installation or referral services, but even with same-size doors, professional installation can ensure a precise fit and proper sealing, which are key to insulation and security. Unless you’re an experienced carpenter, hiring a pro may be the best route if you want a new door without a headache.
Think about safety
A strong lock and reinforced frame are important for deterring break-ins because forced entry is often achieved by kicking in the door. In our tests with a battering ram, all door materials—fiberglass, steel, and wood—revealed the same vulnerability: the doorjamb split near the lock’s strike plate. Reinforcing the lock area with a heavy-duty strike plate and a quality lock can significantly improve a door’s kick-in resistance.
To further fortify an exterior door, consider these measures:
Deadbolt strength: Choose a deadbolt with a throw bolt at least 1 inch long, along with a reinforced metal box strike that resists forced entry.
Longer screws: Use 3-inch-long screws to secure the strike plate and hinges deep into the framing, which adds strength to the doorjamb.
Secure your garage door: Interior doors leading from the garage into the home are a common entry point for intruders. Reinforce these doors with the same precautions, including a tough deadbolt and longer mounting screws.
Adding a storm door can be a smart way to protect your main entry door while adding ventilation and natural light. But a word of warning: While they are called “storm doors,” most are designed for light to moderate weather conditions rather than severe storms. Still, storm doors do provide several benefits.
In addition to protecting your entry door from the elements, a storm door lets you see and talk to visitors or solicitors while maintaining security. They also offer easy ventilation. With retractable screens now more common, it’s easier to adjust for airflow without the hassle of storing or swapping panels seasonally.
And while storm doors may not be designed for extreme weather, they do provide a reliable buffer against drafts and moderate rain. Larry Ciufo, who oversees CR’s door tests, says that the “storm door” moniker can be somewhat misleading. “People often think these doors can handle major storms,” he says, “but they’re really meant for everyday conditions, helping to block drafts and keep out the elements.” Our tests reveal which storm doors from major brands perform better than the rest.
Glass and screen options
Storm doors come in a variety of styles to suit different needs for visibility, ventilation, and convenience. Full-view storm doors feature a large, uninterrupted glass panel for maximum light and visibility, while partial-view doors combine a solid bottom panel with glass on top, offering added privacy and durability in high-traffic areas.
For ventilation, consider models with retractable screens built into the frame. These allow you to slide the glass up or down to reveal a screen, making it easy to switch between insulation and airflow without storing extra panels. Some storm doors require seasonal swaps between glass and screen panels, which may offer larger openings for ventilation. Look for tempered glass for added strength; most storm doors have it.
Frame materials
Most storm doors on the market have aluminum or steel frames. Aluminum is lighter and rust-resistant, making aluminum-frame doors good for areas with high humidity and rain. Steel frames are often heavier but more durable against impacts and high wind. For added strength, look for frames with reinforced corners and heavy-duty construction, which our testers have found will improve a door’s stability and longevity.
Construction and durability
A well-built storm door should have reinforced joints and heavy-duty hinges that can withstand frequent use without loosening over time. Look for adjustable thresholds and bottom sweeps, which help maintain a tight seal against drafts and moisture when materials expand and contract with temperature changes.
Hinge and handle orientation
Before buying a storm door, confirm the hinge and handle orientation to ensure compatibility with your entry door. Most storm doors aren’t reversible, so you’ll need to know which side the handle should be on and in which direction the door should swing. Check the product details carefully. Some models offer both left- and right-hand options, while others are fixed.
Ease of installation
Storm doors can be a DIY project if you’re comfortable with tools and precise measurements. Look for models with drilled holes and included hardware to simplify the process, as well as adjustable thresholds or bottom sweeps for a better fit on uneven entryways. If your entryway isn’t perfectly square or requires complex adjustments, hiring a contractor may save you some frustration and ensure a better fit.
Cost
Storm doors range from about $150 for basic models to $500 or more for high-end options with retractable screens, low-emissivity (low-E) glass, or multipoint locking systems. Aluminum frames are typically on the lower end, while steel options are generally more expensive but provide greater durability and insulation.
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