What’s the Difference and Which One Is Right for Your Home?

When choosing screens for your doors and windows, one of the most common questions is whether to install a security screen or a flyscreen. While both options allow airflow and help protect your home, they are designed for very different purposes.

Understanding the difference between security screens and flyscreens will help you choose the right solution based on your needs, whether that’s improved security, ventilation, or insect protection.

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What is a Security Screen?

A security screen is a reinforced screen system designed to provide ventilation while helping protect against forced entry. Unlike standard screens, security door screens are built using strong frames and high-performance security screen mesh, such as stainless steel or perforated aluminium.

Security screens are commonly used on:

• front entry doors

• sliding doors

• accessible windows

• high-traffic areas

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These systems are engineered to resist impact, cutting and tampering, making them a suitable option where both airflow and added security are required.

What is a Flyscreen?

A flyscreen is a lightweight screen designed primarily to keep insects out while allowing fresh air to circulate through the home. Flyscreens are typically made using materials such as fibreglass or aluminium mesh.

Flyscreens are commonly installed on:

• windows

• patio doors

• laundry and utility doors

They provide effective ventilation and insect control but are not designed to offer structural protection against forced entry.

Security Screen Mesh Options

Strength and Protection

The biggest difference between the two is strength.

• Security screens are built to resist impact and forced entry

• Flyscreens are designed for airflow and insect control only

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Security screens use reinforced security mesh, while flyscreens use lightweight mesh materials.

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Mesh Type

• Security screens use stainless steel mesh, perforated aluminium or reinforced grille systems

• Flyscreens use fibreglass mesh, midge mesh or other lightweight materials

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The mesh type directly affects durability, visibility and performance.

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Compliance and Testing

Security screens may be tested to Australian Standards such as AS5039 and AS5041, which assess strength and durability.

Flyscreens are not subject to these structural performance standards.

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Cost and Application

• Security screens are a higher investment due to their strength and materials

• Flyscreens are a cost-effective solution for everyday ventilation and insect protection

Many homes use a combination of both depending on the location and requirements of each opening

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When Should You Choose a Flyscreen?
 

Security screens are the better option when:

• the opening is easily accessible (front or side doors)

• added strength and durability are required

• you want airflow without compromising safety

• the area is exposed to weather or high use

They are commonly used for hinged doors, sliding doors and window screens where security is a priority.

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When Should You Choose a Flyscreen?

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Flyscreens are ideal when:

• insect protection is the main priority

• airflow and ventilation are important

• the opening is not a security risk

• a more budget-friendly solution is required

They are commonly used on windows and internal or low-risk doors.

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Explore Defendoor Screen Options

Defendoor offers a full range of security screens, security screen mesh systems and flyscreen options designed to suit different applications.

👉Explore our security screen mesh range
👉 View our hinged and sliding security doors
👉 Compare window screens and flyscreens