Whether you’re renovating or fitting a brand new home, installing new screens on your house is an exciting time. With that excitement also comes the task of finding a reputable screen fitter to install your screens. You want to make sure that the windows and doors you have installed will last for years to come. The often laborious task of choosing a screener is one of the most important decisions for the security and safety of your home, family, and belongings so we’ve compiled 5 questions you need to ask your screen installer before going ahead with a quote.
1. How much experience do you have in the industry?
Just like when you’re interviewing a potential new employee for a job, you’ll want to see the screener’s “resume” to make sure that it matches your requirements and standards. The length of time that they’ve been in business is a great indicator for the quality of their workmanship – those who have been in the business for decades are a good bet for quality work. We all have access to the Internet, so doing a quick online search for customer reviews, the company website, and even their social media can help to determine if they’re a reputable source to screen your home.
2. Where are your screens and materials made?
The location screens are made as well as the materials they’re made from are essential. Many products that come from overseas are of poor or low quality and so are more likely to rust, corrode, or simply be ineffective. Due to the unique weather conditions in Australia our products are required to adhere to quality standards that many overseas products don’t. It’s integral that your screens are Australian made to ensure their longevity and ability to withstand Australian conditions.
3. What does your warranty cover and for how long?
When you’ve invested in new screens, especially security screens, you’ll want to make sure that you have an adequate warranty period and terms should any issues arise. Watch out for warranty period lengths – genuine security products such as SecureView generally come with at least a 10-year warranty period. This is also where researching the reputation of a screener comes in handy. If they’ve been in business for a long time, that will show an increased likelihood of them being around in future should any issues arise.
4. Do your security doors and windows conform to Australian Security Standards?
When it comes to security doors, it’s essential that you ask your screener if they adhere to Australian Standards. Australian Standards outline the minimum requirements needed in order for a product or installation to be classified as “security”. AS 5039-2008 is the standard security products must meet which includes a series of tests such as cyclone tests, knife shear tests, and impact tests. AS 5040-2003 outlines the installation of security products. It’s important that you check that both of these standards are included when you purchase your new screens to ensure the security and safety of your family and home.
5. Are you a member of the National Security Screen Association?
The National Security Screen Association (NSSA) is a national body that conducts audits, training, and accreditation for AS 5039. This is the most important question to ask your installer. If your screener is a member of the NSSA, then you can be assured that questions 2 and 4 are ticked right off the bat! The NSSA ensures that its members are accredited, trained, and informed of industry developments so you can be comfortable knowing that you will be receiving excellent service and workmanship on your home.
Ultimately, while the task of researching your installer may be a lengthy process, it’s incredibly important. You want your screens to last you for years to come and investing a small amount of time initially could save you hours of time and frustration in the future.
As always, if you have any questions at all, you can contact our team who are more than happy to help!
