If you’ve been sitting on the fence about are security doors worth it, you’re not alone. It’s a genuine investment — and like any home improvement, you want to know you’re getting real value for your money.
The short answer? Yes, security doors are absolutely worth it. Here’s why Australian homeowners are increasingly treating them as an essential upgrade, not an optional extra.
The Reality of Home Break-Ins in Australia
Let’s start with the numbers, because they’re sobering. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the proportion of Australian households that experienced a break-in rose to 2.1% in 2023–24 — that’s 218,000 homes. And it gets worse: one in five of those households was broken into more than once.
Burglars are opportunists. Research consistently shows they target homes that look easy to access — unlocked doors, weak screens, and unsecured windows. A quality security door is one of the most visible and effective deterrents you can put between your family and a would-be intruder.
What Makes a Security Door Different From a Standard Screen Door?
Not all doors are created equal. Standard screen doors and flyscreens are designed to keep insects out — nothing more. They offer virtually no resistance to a determined intruder.
A genuine security door, on the other hand, is built to withstand real force. In Australia, security screen doors and grilles must meet Australian Standard AS 5039, which tests products against three types of forced entry: knife shear, impact, and jemmy (levering) attacks. If a product is AS 5039 compliant, it has been independently tested to resist these attacks — that’s not a marketing claim, it’s a verified standard.
At Prowler Proof, every security screen product in our range is designed and manufactured to meet these standards, giving you genuine protection you can count on.
The Investment Case: What Do You Actually Get?
1. Real Security, Not Just the Appearance of It
The most obvious return on your investment is peace of mind. Knowing your home is protected — whether you’re asleep, at work, or on holiday — is genuinely priceless. Security doors give you the ability to leave windows and doors open for fresh air without compromising your safety, something a standard door simply can’t offer.
2. A Boost to Your Home’s Appeal and Value
Security is one of the most consistently valued features for Australian homebuyers. According to homeimprovements.com.au, homes fitted with quality security features have a higher perceived value and appeal to a broader pool of buyers — particularly families and buyers who travel frequently. When it comes time to sell, security doors aren’t just an afterthought; they’re a tangible selling point.
3. Potential Insurance Savings
Some Australian insurers take home security improvements into account when assessing premiums. Adding certified security screens and doors to your home can be worth discussing with your insurer. Every dollar saved on premiums is a return on your investment.
4. Ventilation Without Compromise
Australia’s climate means we want our homes open and airy for much of the year. Security screens let you keep doors and windows open to catch a breeze — without the worry. That’s a quality-of-life benefit that pays off every single day.
5. Durability That Goes the Distance
Quality security screens are built to last. Prowler Proof backs its products with a 10-year full replacement warranty. When you spread that protection over a decade or more, the value proposition becomes even clearer.
What to Look For When Choosing Security Doors
Not every product on the market is equal, so it’s worth knowing what to look for before you buy.
AS 5039 compliance is non-negotiable. Always ask for evidence that the product meets this Australian Standard. Compliant products will carry labelling confirming they’ve been independently tested.
Choose a reputable manufacturer. Look for brands with a track record in Australia, a clear warranty, and products installed by trained, accredited dealers.
Think about aesthetics too. Security doesn’t have to mean ugly. Today’s security doors come in a wide range of styles, mesh types, and powder coat colours to complement your home — browse Prowler Proof’s full range to see what’s possible.
Get it installed properly. Even the best security door is only as good as its installation. A compliant installer will fit the screen correctly and attach the required AS 5039 compliance labelling — a sign the job has been done to standard. Read our Complete Guide to Security Screen Installation for more on what to expect.
The Verdict
Security doors aren’t a luxury — they’re a smart, long-term investment in your home’s safety, value, and liveability. With Australian break-in rates on the rise, the cost of not acting is far greater than the cost of upgrading. Whether you’re protecting your family, preparing your home for sale, or simply want to enjoy a breeze without the worry, security doors deliver returns that go well beyond the financial.
Ready to find the right security door for your home? Find your local Prowler Proof dealer for a free measure and quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — when they’re AS 5039 compliant. Australian Standard AS 5039 requires security screen doors to resist knife shear, impact force, and jemmy attacks, which are the three most common forced-entry methods. Compliant security doors are a proven deterrent and physical barrier. Standard screen doors and flyscreens offer no such protection.
Quality security features are increasingly valued by Australian buyers, particularly families. While the exact value uplift depends on your market and property, security doors are widely regarded as a positive feature that broadens buyer appeal and can contribute to a higher perceived property value. They also demonstrate the home has been well-maintained and cared for.
Security screens are low-maintenance. Regular cleaning with mild detergent and water, keeping tracks clear and lubricated, and a periodic check of locks and mesh are all it takes. For coastal properties, rinsing with fresh water monthly helps protect against salt corrosion. With proper care, a quality Prowler Proof screen will perform well for many years — and is backed by warranty to give you extra confidence.