6 Most Secure Door Types to Install in Australia

Car Locksmith Sydney
Jul 27
Written By Lost Key Locksmiths

The six most secure door types to install in Australia are:

  1. Stainless Steel Security Screen Doors
  2. Steel Bar Doors
  3. Aluminium Doors
  4. Crimsafe Doors
  5. Cast Aluminium Security Doors
  6. Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) Doors

When we think about protecting our homes, the front door is where security really begins. A secure door needs to be tough enough to resist forced entry while still looking good and working well in Australia's varied weather conditions. These doors have solid construction materials that won't give way to cutting, drilling, or impact damage. The frame gets reinforced with steel components so it won't spread apart under pressure, and quality locking mechanisms spread force across the whole door structure.

Choosing the right security door matters more than you might think. Obviously, it keeps your family and belongings safe from intruders, but there's more to it than that. Insurance companies often give better rates when you have proper security doors installed. Your property value goes up too, especially if you pick a door that looks great with your home's style. Plus, a well-made security door actually helps with energy bills by sealing properly and providing good insulation.

Before you buy a door, there are some key things to check out. The material determines how strong the door will be against different types of attacks. Thicker doors generally mean better security, so thickness matters. You want to make sure the frame reinforcement is solid because that's often where doors fail under pressure. Check that the door works with high-security locks you might want to add later. And always make sure it meets Australian security standards so you know it's been properly tested.

Your local conditions play a big part in which door works best. If you live near the coast, you need something that won't corrode in the salty air. The door should match your home's look, and different materials need different amounts of upkeep. Your budget obviously matters, and some doors need special installation work that might affect your choice.

This is where a locksmith becomes really valuable in helping you choose the best security solution. We look at your current setup and spot weak points you might miss. Our experience means we can match the right door type to your specific needs and suggest locks that work perfectly with your chosen door. We know the Australian standards inside and out, so your door selection will definitely meet regulations. When it comes to installation, we make sure everything gets mounted properly for the best security performance.

What are the most secure door types to install for homes in Australia?

When we talk about the most secure door types, we mean doors that can really stand up to someone trying to break in through impact, cutting, drilling, or prying. These doors also need to handle Australia's tough weather conditions without losing their strength over time. They meet Australian standards like AS5039-2008, which sets the bar for how well residential security doors need to perform.

Security doors get their rating based on how long they can resist different attack methods. The better the door, the longer it holds up against professional tools and techniques. Testing happens under controlled conditions that copy real break-in attempts, and the standards cover everything from the door itself to the frame, hinges, and how the locks integrate with the whole system.

Here are the 6 most secure door types for Australian homes:

1. Stainless Steel Security Screen Doors: These use marine-grade stainless steel mesh that won't corrode or cut easily. The mesh lets air flow through while keeping intruders out, which is perfect for our warm climate.

2. Steel Bar Doors: Heavy-gauge steel bars get welded into strong patterns that spread impact across the whole door. You can still see through them clearly while getting maximum protection.

3. Aluminium Doors: These are lightweight but strong, with reinforced aluminium frames that resist both impact and weather damage. They handle temperature changes well and won't corrode like some other metals.

4. Crimsafe Doors: These use special tensile-tuff mesh made from 0.9mm stainless steel wire. The system gets tested against cutting and impact, and uses a special clamping system without weak spots from screws or rivets.

5. Cast Aluminium Security Doors: Solid cast aluminium gives you great strength plus decorative appeal. The casting process creates detailed designs while keeping the door structurally sound.

6. Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) Doors: GRP combines fibreglass with polymer for lightweight strength. These doors resist impact and weather damage while staying stable through temperature changes.

1. Stainless Steel Security Screen Doors

Stainless steel security screen doors are the go-to choice when you want serious protection without feeling locked away from the world. Think of them as a really tough version of a regular screen door that actually stops intruders while still letting you enjoy fresh air and natural light. They're especially popular here in Australia because you can keep your main door open during hot weather and still feel completely secure.

These doors are built around marine-grade stainless steel mesh, which is the same tough stuff they use on boats. The mesh uses 316-grade stainless steel wire that's usually between 0.7mm and 1.2mm thick, depending on how much security you need. The frame itself gets made from powder-coated aluminium or steel that won't rust or corrode. The hinges use stainless steel pins and bushings so they'll keep working smoothly for years without seizing up.

When it comes to keeping intruders out, these doors really deliver. The stainless steel mesh is incredibly hard to cut through, even with knives or scissors, because of how strong the wire is. If someone tries to kick or hit the door, the mesh spreads that force across the whole surface instead of breaking at one spot. Even if you live near the beach where salt air destroys everything, the marine-grade steel won't corrode. They handle our crazy weather changes, storms, and harsh UV rays without losing strength.

Getting one installed is pretty straightforward and usually takes about 2-3 hours. The installer mounts the frame to your existing door opening using heavy-duty screws and wall anchors. They make sure everything lines up perfectly so the door closes smoothly and all the locks work properly. Sometimes they need to add extra reinforcement if your door opening isn't strong enough.

You're looking at anywhere from $800 to $2,500 for installation, depending on what you choose. Basic residential doors start around $800-$1,200, which gives you good security for most homes. If you want the premium models with fancy locking systems, you'll be looking at $1,800-$2,500. Custom sizes or tricky installations might add another $200-$500 to the bill.

2. Steel Bar Doors

Steel bar doors are what you choose when you want security that nobody can miss. These are the doors with solid steel bars arranged in patterns that look good but make it crystal clear to anyone thinking about breaking in that they should probably try somewhere else. You can see right through them, which means you don't feel trapped inside, but they're built like a fortress.

The construction is all about solid steel bars, usually between 12mm and 20mm thick, made from high-tensile steel that's incredibly strong. These bars get welded together with proper full-penetration welds that create rock-solid joints. The frame uses heavy-gauge steel, typically 50mm x 25mm rectangular tubing that can handle serious abuse. Everything gets hot-dip galvanised first, then powder coated so it won't rust and you can choose different colours.

These doors are basically unstoppable when someone tries to break in. Because the bars are solid steel, they spread any impact force across multiple connection points instead of failing at one weak spot. If someone tries to cut through them, they'll need professional tools and a lot of time, which most burglars don't have. Trying to pry them open is nearly impossible because of how the bars are spaced and how securely they're mounted. Even in salty coastal areas, the galvanised coating keeps rust away.

Installation takes a bit longer, usually 3-4 hours, because these doors are heavy and everything needs to be perfectly aligned. You need really solid mounting points, often requiring concrete anchors or structural steel brackets. This isn't a DIY job because if the mounting isn't done right, the door could sag or create weak spots that defeat the whole purpose.

Cost-wise, you're looking at $1,200 to $3,500 depending on how fancy you want to get. Standard geometric patterns start around $1,200-$1,800, which gives you excellent security without breaking the bank. Custom decorative designs that look more artistic will run $2,200-$3,000. If you need commercial-grade heavy-duty installation with all the reinforcement, expect $2,800-$3,500.

3. Aluminium Doors

Aluminium doors are your best bet when you want solid security without all the weight and maintenance headaches that come with steel. They're especially brilliant in Australia because while other metals are busy rusting away in our salty coastal air or extreme weather, aluminium just keeps doing its job year after year. Plus, they're much easier to open and close every day, which might not sound like much until you've been wrestling with a heavy steel door for a few months.

These doors get built using extruded aluminium frames, typically made from 6063-T5 aluminium alloy that gives you great strength without the bulk. The frames are usually between 40mm to 60mm deep with walls that are 1.6mm to 2.5mm thick, depending on how much security you're after. You can fill them with aluminium mesh, perforated sheets, or solid panels based on what works for your situation. Everything gets powder-coated with marine-grade finishes that won't fade or corrode no matter what the weather throws at them.

When it comes to keeping intruders out, aluminium doors hold their own really well. They absorb and spread impact force without cracking like some brittle materials do. Where aluminium really wins is against corrosion, especially compared to steel doors that can turn into rust buckets near the coast. The metal naturally forms a protective oxide layer that stops further corrosion from happening. They handle our crazy temperature swings, storms, and harsh UV rays without warping or losing strength like timber doors often do.

Getting one installed is pretty straightforward and usually takes about 2-3 hours. The installer mounts the aluminium frame to your existing opening using stainless steel screws and proper wall anchors. Because aluminium is so much lighter than steel, you don't need as much structural reinforcement, which keeps things simpler. They'll make sure everything seals properly around the frame to keep water out and ensure smooth operation.

You're looking at $600 to $2,200 for installation, depending on what features you want. Basic aluminium screen doors start around $600-$1,000, which is pretty reasonable for decent security. If you want the security-focused models with reinforced frames and fancy multi-point locks, expect $1,400-$2,200. Custom colours or odd sizes usually add another $150-$400 to the bill.

4. Crimsafe Doors

Crimsafe doors are like the premium sports car of security screens. They look pretty normal from a distance, but they use some seriously clever engineering that makes them incredibly tough to defeat. This isn't just marketing hype either, these doors get put through proper testing that proves they can stop determined intruders. They're perfect when you want maximum security but don't want your home looking like a prison.

The secret is in their Tensile-Tuff mesh, which uses 0.9mm marine-grade stainless steel wire woven in a special pattern that creates amazing strength. The frame gets made from heavy-duty aluminium designed specifically for this system. What's really clever is their screw-clamp fixing system that holds the mesh without actually putting holes through it. That means there are no weak spots where screws or rivets could fail under pressure.

These doors have been tested to death and they keep passing with flying colours. They've proven they can resist knife attacks where someone tries to cut through the mesh. Impact testing shows they can take serious hits without failing. The 0.9mm stainless steel wire has incredible tensile strength, so it won't stretch or tear under pressure. Being marine-grade stainless steel, they handle any Australian environment without corroding. The screw-clamp system means no holes in the mesh that could become weak points later.

Installation needs to be done by trained people because Crimsafe has specific requirements to keep its security rating valid. It usually takes 2-4 hours depending on how complex your setup is. The installer has to get the frame alignment perfect and make sure the screw-clamp system gets the right tension. Only authorised dealers can install these, which protects your warranty and ensures you get the security you're paying for.

Cost-wise, you're looking at $1,500 to $3,500, which isn't cheap but reflects what you're getting. Standard residential doors typically run $1,500-$2,200, while bigger doors or ones with premium locking systems hit $2,500-$3,500. The higher price covers the patented technology, all that testing, and the requirement for trained installation. Custom colours or special sizing can bump the price up another $200-$600.

5. Cast Aluminium Security Doors

Cast aluminium security doors are where you get to have your cake and eat it too when it comes to security and style. Instead of just bending metal into shape, these doors get made by pouring molten aluminium into custom moulds that create beautiful, intricate designs. You end up with a door that's seriously tough but looks like a piece of art rather than a fortress gate. It's perfect when you want top-notch security but also want your neighbours to be impressed rather than intimidated.

These doors start with high-grade aluminium alloy, usually A356 or similar casting grades that give you great strength and won't corrode. The casting process creates solid aluminium sections that are way thicker than regular sheet metal, typically 6mm to 15mm in the important areas. All those beautiful designs aren't just stuck on afterwards, they're cast as part of the door structure, which means no weak spots where bits could break off. Everything gets protective coating like anodising or powder coating to keep it looking good for decades.

When someone tries to break through one of these doors, they're in for a real surprise. The thick cast sections can take massive hits without bending or cracking. Because everything's cast as one piece, there are no welded joints that could fail under pressure. Aluminium naturally fights off rust, and the casting process creates really dense metal that won't let moisture sneak in. They handle our crazy weather extremes and harsh UV rays without breaking down, plus those thick sections actually help with keeping your energy bills down.

Getting one installed is a bit more involved because these doors are seriously heavy. You're looking at 3-5 hours for installation and they usually need two people to handle the weight safely. Your door frame needs to be strong enough to support all that weight, which sometimes means beefing up the surrounding structure. For bigger doors, they might need special lifting gear. Once it's up there, it needs to be perfectly aligned because making adjustments after the fact is nearly impossible with all that weight.

You're looking at $2,500 to $6,000 for one of these beauties, depending on how fancy you want to get. Basic designs with simple patterns start around $2,500-$3,500, which is reasonable considering what you're getting. If you want elaborate decorative work, expect $4,000-$5,500. Really large doors or ones that need structural work to support them can hit $5,000-$6,000. The higher price reflects the specialised manufacturing and the need for experienced installers who know how to handle the weight properly.

6. Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) Doors

GRP doors are basically the chameleon of security doors because they can look like whatever you want while giving you all the benefits you need. They combine fibreglass strength with plastic versatility to create doors that are light enough to handle easily but tough enough to keep intruders out. The best part is they can perfectly mimic timber, steel, or any other look you want, so you get security without having to compromise on your home's style.

These doors get made by embedding fibreglass reinforcement in a polymer resin matrix, usually polyester or vinyl ester resins that handle weather really well. The fibreglass uses chopped strand mat and woven materials that provide strength in all directions. The whole thing ends up 35mm to 45mm thick with consistent density throughout, not like hollow doors that have weak spots. The surface gets a gel coat that protects against UV and can replicate any texture you want, from timber grain to smooth modern finishes. Some have foam cores that add insulation while keeping the door strong.

When it comes to stopping break-ins, GRP doors really deliver. The fibreglass reinforcement stops cracks from spreading and spreads impact force across the whole door surface. They handle weather better than almost anything else because GRP doesn't rot, warp, or rust no matter what Mother Nature throws at it. Temperature changes that would make other doors expand and contract don't bother GRP much at all. Salt air, pollution, and cleaning chemicals that destroy other materials just bounce off these doors. The solid construction makes them really hard to drill or cut through.

Installation is pretty straightforward because GRP doors weigh about the same as solid timber doors but are way more stable. It usually takes 2-3 hours and works with standard door hardware and hinges. Because they don't warp or shrink like timber, you won't need constant adjustments down the track. Your existing door frame should work fine, though adding some reinforcement never hurts for security. The installer just needs to make sure everything seals properly around the frame.

Cost-wise, you're looking at $800 to $2,800 depending on what features you want. Basic GRP doors start around $800-$1,200, which is great value when you consider how long they last with minimal maintenance. Premium designs with fancy locks and decorative features reach $1,800-$2,800. Custom colours, textures, or odd sizes usually add $200-$500. When you factor in how little maintenance these doors need over their lifetime, they often work out cheaper than alternatives in the long run.

What to know before buying a Door for your home

When you're shopping for a security door, there are some key things you absolutely need to know to avoid getting ripped off or ending up with something that won't actually protect your home. The most important thing to look for is AS5039-2008 certification, which is the Australian standard that actually tests doors against real break-in attempts. This isn't just paperwork, it means the door has been properly tested against impact, cutting, and prying attacks.

These doors get rated from Class A (basic security) up to Class C (maximum security), with Class B being what most homes need. Don't let anyone sell you a door without proper certification because it's basically useless when it really matters. AS5040-2021 is the other standard you need to know about, which covers how the door gets installed. Even the best door in the world won't protect you if it's installed wrong, so make sure your installer follows this standard too.

Material quality makes a huge difference in how long your door lasts and how well it protects you. If you live near the coast, you need marine-grade stainless steel (316 grade) because regular steel will rust away in the salty air. For inland areas, 304-grade stainless steel works fine and costs less. Aluminium should be 6063-T5 alloy or better, not the cheap stuff that bends easily. Steel components need hot-dip galvanising plus powder coating, not just paint that'll chip off. Frame thickness matters too, minimum 1.6mm for aluminium and 2mm for steel, anything thinner will bend under pressure.

Intrusion test ratings tell you how long the door can resist different attack methods. Dynamic impact testing shows how it handles kicking and hitting. Jemmy bar testing checks resistance to prying. Knife shear testing measures how well mesh resists cutting. Look for doors that pass 10-minute resistance tests across all these categories because that's usually enough to make burglars give up and try somewhere else.

Don't forget about the details that matter. Make sure the door works with high-security locks, has hinges with security pins, and uses mounting systems that spread the load properly. Weather sealing keeps water out, which prevents damage that could weaken security over time. Always ask for the actual certification documents and check that your installer is authorised for that specific door system.

What is the importance of choosing a secure door?

Getting a proper security door is hands-down the most important thing you can do to protect your home because it's where over 70% of break-ins happen. Your door is literally the only thing standing between your family and someone who wants to get inside, so it better be up to the job.

Most burglars are opportunists who want easy targets, and a quality security door makes them think twice and move on to someone else's house. Professional burglars typically give up after 3 minutes if they can't get in, so doors that meet AS5039 standards create enough delay to send them packing. Just having a visible security door tells potential intruders that you've thought about security and probably have other protections too.

Your insurance company cares about security doors too, and they'll often knock 5-15% off your premiums when you have AS5039-compliant doors installed. That's because they know these doors actually work and reduce their risk of paying out claims. Your property value goes up too, often by $2,000-$5,000, which means the door basically pays for itself over time.

The peace of mind factor is huge and something you can't put a price on. You'll sleep better knowing your home has proper protection, go on holidays without constantly worrying, and feel comfortable letting your kids answer the door while you can still see who's there. That kind of security is priceless for any family.

Plus, good security doors actually help with your energy bills. They provide better insulation and let you control airflow properly, which can cut your cooling costs by 10-20% during summer. You can leave your main door open for natural ventilation while staying completely secure, which saves money and keeps you comfortable.

What are the factors to consider for choosing a secure door?

When you're shopping for a security door, there are five main factors that will determine whether you end up with real protection or just expensive decoration. Here are some factors that work together to create a door that can actually stop intruders while lasting for years in Australian conditions:

  • Durability: This is really about how well your door holds up over the years without falling apart or losing its security features. A durable door keeps working properly, stays aligned, and continues protecting your home for decades without needing constant repairs or replacements. You want to think about frame material thickness and alloy grade that won't bend or break, along with quality welds and joints that stay strong under pressure. The protective coatings need to last years without peeling or fading, while hardware like hinges and handles should keep working smoothly. A manufacturer's solid reputation and good warranty coverage give you peace of mind about your investment.
  • Resistance Rating (kN): These numbers tell you exactly how much force your door can handle before it gives way. Measured in kilonewtons (kN), this gives you a scientific way to compare different doors and know which ones can actually stop a determined intruder. Dynamic impact resistance from 200-800 kN shows how well the door handles kicks and hits, while static load resistance measures performance under sustained pressure. Point load resistance at key spots like lock areas matters too, as does how the door spreads force across its entire surface. Understanding what testing methods were used to get these numbers helps you make informed comparisons between different options.
  • Fire and Cyclone Rating: These ratings show how your door performs when Mother Nature or fires threaten your home. If you live in bushfire or cyclone areas, these ratings aren't just nice to have, they're absolutely essential for your family's safety. Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) ratings range from BAL-LOW up to BAL-FZ, while cyclone categories go from C1 through C4 for wind resistance. Fire resistance time tells you how many minutes the door can withstand flames, while ember protection during bushfires and water resistance during severe storms are equally important things to consider.
  • Corrosion Protection: This determines whether your door will look good and stay strong when faced with salt air, humidity, and general weather abuse. Good protection keeps both the appearance and strength intact throughout the door's life. Marine-grade stainless steel works best for coastal homes, while hot-dip galvanising plus powder coating protects steel doors effectively. Anodising or protective films help aluminium components, and quality paint systems resist UV damage over time. Smart design also prevents different metals from corroding each other when they're used together in the same door.
  • Locking System Type: Your locking system is what actually keeps intruders out, so it needs to resist picking, drilling, and clever bypass attempts. The locks must work properly with your door to give you maximum security. Multi-point systems with 3-7 lock points provide much better security than single locks, while high-security cylinders resist picking and bumping attempts. Deadbolts need proper throw length to be effective, and smart lock compatibility adds modern convenience without compromising security. Emergency exit requirements ensure your family can get out safely during emergencies, which is just as important as keeping intruders out.

Who can help on choosing a secure door type in Sydney?

When you're looking for help choosing the right security door in Sydney, you don't want to go it alone because there's too much at stake to get it wrong. There are three main types of professionals who actually know what they're talking about and can guide you through the process without trying to sell you something you don't need.

Licensed locksmiths in NSW are your best starting point because they hold proper Security Licensing & Enforcement Directorate (SLED) licences that actually mean something. These aren't just salespeople, they're qualified professionals who can assess what your home really needs and recommend door systems that make sense for your situation. They understand how security doors work with your overall home protection and can evaluate your specific requirements based on real risk assessment and what security you already have. The great thing about experienced locksmiths is they've seen what works and what doesn't in real-world situations, plus they can spot potential problems that most people would miss completely.

Security consultants take a much bigger picture approach by looking at your whole property to identify weak spots and recommend door solutions that fit into a broader security strategy. These experts don't just think about the door itself, they consider things like what kind of crime happens in your neighbourhood, how your property is laid out, where people can access it, and what your family's specific needs are. They can suggest the best door types and where to put them, plus recommend other security measures that work together rather than just throwing random solutions at you.

Certified door installers in NSW are the people with proper trade licences and manufacturer certifications who know how to install specific door systems the right way. They understand the AS5040 installation requirements that ensure your door actually achieves its tested security rating through proper mounting and integration with your building structure. Even the best door in the world won't protect you if it's not installed correctly, so these professionals know the technical details of different systems and can advise on installation challenges, what structural work might be needed, and how to maintain everything properly.

When you're choosing any of these professionals, make sure they have current NSW licensing, proper insurance coverage, manufacturer authorisations for whatever door systems you're considering, and real experience with AS5039-compliant installations. Ask for references from recent jobs and find out what warranty coverage you'll get for both the products and installation work. Don't be shy about asking questions about their specific experience with properties like yours and security requirements similar to what you need, because this can make a huge difference in the quality of advice and service you get.

Choose Lost Key Locksmith for best Home door security solution

Lost key Locksmith offers certified door security solutions across Sydney with real experience in AS5039-tested security doors and modern smart lock systems. Our team combines traditional locksmith knowledge with modern security technology, so we can provide complete door security solutions that actually protect your family and property rather than just looking impressive.

We specialise in figuring out what your home really needs for security and recommending door systems that meet Australian standards while still looking good with your property. Our experience with AS5039-tested security doors means you get genuine protection that's been independently tested and proven to work in real situations, not just in theory.

Our smart lock services connect your security door with modern access systems like smartphone apps, keypad entry, and fingerprint recognition. We install and set up these systems to work perfectly with whatever door you choose while keeping all the security certifications and meeting compliance requirements. This means you get convenience without compromising the security you're paying for.

Contact Lostkeylocksmith today for expert door security consultation at 0482095238, email us at info@lostkeylocksmiths.com.au, or visit www.lostkeylocksmiths.com.au. We provide $0 call-out fee consultations across Sydney and surrounding areas with our 5-star Google rating showing our commitment to quality security solutions.

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