Say ‘security screen doors’, and almost immediately one assumes a safer and uncompromised environment. And why not! The name itself includes the word security.
The whole purpose of adding a security screen door to your residence is to make it burglar-proof, resistant to a break-in allowing more time for the residents to seek out safety measures, and of course to keep out insects, while allowing the ventilation and view you crave.
However, many first-time purchasers can have doubts over whether a security screen is as sturdy and strong as it is made out to be. What materials designate a screen door as strong? On what basis does it trump a regular door for security? The answer lies in an understanding of the materials. This knowledge will also help you make a more informed decision as you select the right screen for your home.
What Makes the Screen’s Steel Mesh Strong?
Steel by itself is known to be strong. However, it can oxidise over the course of time. In fact, the word ‘stainless’ itself was added as a way to indicate its resilience to quick oxidisation. This is why it is important that you ensure your security screen door is made up of stainless steel, which is more resilient to oxidisation.
In order to make the metal, chromium is added in the middle of the pouring process, and hence the metal gets coated with a layer of chromium, which is approximately 5 nanometres thick. This chromium coating is what acts as a protective layer. Now, while this layer can definitely elevate it in comparison to the regular metal, however, pitting (a form of localized corrosion that eventually leads to the formation of small holes in the metal) might take off this protective layer.
If you can, ask your technician to show you screens that are made with 316 Marine Grade stainless, as these have greater chromium content offering higher resilience against corrosion. Experts say 316 Marine Grade is better equipped for hotter climates and coastal areas.
For those with questions on whether a 316 Marine Grade might interfere with the view of your outdoor space, the answer is no. Besides featuring apertures similar to that of a fly screen, Marine Grade can also withstand great stress. It is sturdy, robust, and toughened by the strength of the points it is fixed at. It does not require a central bar for support and strength and hence your view and ventilation is the same as with an almost open door, minus the insects of course.
What is a Security Screen’s Frame Made Up of?
If you thought just the screen’s resilience was where the security and strength lies, think again. Made from aluminium, the frames are built to endure. They give the assurance of durability, security and quality build. The frame is created using aluminium slats, which are then fixed onto the door using aluminium stakes, which are just as solid. Not only are they inserted efficiently but are also grafted together in a way that closes off all access from outside. The aluminium frame is then powder coated for an aesthetic finish.
What Fixing System is Used?
Considering the fixing system is what holds the frame together, you’re naturally wondering whether it is one that is sturdy or will give way easily. A patented bonding tape called VHB is made use of to join the screen to the frame.Along with being efficiently attached between the slats and firmly set in place by the pressure, the tape almost seems to draw its strength from the way it is used. This is where the skill, knowledge, and competence of your technician will come into play to guarantee a good job. The adhesive strengthens with time and so leaves no doubt about its ability.
In spite of being very thin, it is further compressed to bond together to ensure there is no gap between the screen and the frame. And since the apertures are too fine to allow any tools to pass through, there is no way an intruder can break-in from the outside.
Additionally, the tape also serves the purpose of ruling out weak joins that may have been present due to the use of screws or rivets and also prevents galvanic corrosion that could occur due to the aluminium and stainless steel coming in contact with each other.
Finally, the screen can be built from the most premium materials to ensure it stays true to its performance. However, if executed at the hands of poorly-skilled technicians or lazy installation, all its sturdiness and resilience can be compromised upon. So when selecting this addition for your home, along with keeping the above information in mind, remember to ask just as many questions about the practices and credibility of the professionals you employ.
About the Author
Nicholas is the owner of AAA Security Doors along with George. Along with offering one of the finest options for screen doors Melbourne and fly screens in Melbourne they also offer expert advice on the best option suited to your needs, distinguishing them in their field.
