Bushfire Screens: Essential Protection for Homes in High-Risk Areas
Living in Australia means enjoying beautiful natural surroundings but it also means facing the reality of bushfires. The construction of buildings in areas designated as bushfire prone require specialised measures to improve a building’s ability to withstand bushfire attack, thereby protecting both the building and its occupants. These requirements are primarily governed by Australian standard 3959:2018 Construction of Buildings in Bushfire Prone Areas.
When building in these zones, the National Construction Code (NCC) requires mandatory screening on all operable glazed windows. With respect to doors, the requirement to screen the doors is dependent on the glazed product used in your home, so it may also be necessary to screen the glazed doors. The level of screening required will be dependent on the Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) that has been designated to your property. There are currently 6 BAL categories.
- BAL – LOW – There is insufficient risk to warrant specific construction requirements
- BAL – 12.5 – Ember attack
- BAL – 19 – Increasing levels of ember attack and burning debris ignited by windborne embers together with increasing heat flux between 12.5 and 19 kW/m2
- BAL – 29 – Increasing levels of ember attack and burning debris ignited by windborne embers together with increasing heat flux between 19 and 29 kW/m2
- BAL – 40 – Increasing levels of ember attack and burning debris ignited by windborne embers together with increasing heat flux with the increased likelihood of exposure to flames.
- BAL – FZ – Direct exposure to flames from fire front in addition to heat flux and ember attack
For homes and buildings in high-risk regions, especially across the Gold Coast, and Tweed Heads region, protecting your home against airborne embers is more than a precaution; it is a necessity. Bushfire screens have become one of the most effective and reliable ways to safeguard windows and doors by reducing ember attack, while providing valuable additional protection when it matters most.
Our screens are specially engineered to prevent burning embers from entering a home during a bushfire event. Because most homes or business are lost not to direct flame contact but to embers travelling ahead of a fire front, installing high-quality screens is a critical step in strengthening your home’s overall bushfire resilience. At Goldco® Security, we supply and install premium bushfire-rated screens designed to meet strict building codes and perform in even the harshest fire conditions.
What Are Bushfire Screens?
Bushfire screens are protective mesh screens specifically tested and rated to withstand high temperatures and prevent the infiltration of flying embers. They look like standard fly screens and security screens but are built using specialised materials that tolerate the extreme conditions associated with a bushfire.
Made from metal mesh, these screens are mounted to windows and doors to provide a secure barrier. Their design ensures airflow and visibility are maintained while dramatically reducing the risk of ignition inside the home.
For many homeowners, these screens are not just a safety upgrade, they are a requirement. In areas designated under the Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating system, compliant screens are mandatory for new builds and renovations. Even if your home is not officially rated in a high-risk zone, installing screens still adds peace of mind, security, and value to your property.
Why Bushfire Screens Are Essential for Ember Protection
During a bushfire, burning embers can be carried by the wind for kilometers from the fire front. These tiny particles can lodge in gaps, cracks, and openings around your home especially windows and doors. Once inside, they can ignite curtains, furniture, carpets, and internal timber structures.
Bushfire Screens as Everyday Security Screens
A major benefit of installing our premium range of bushfire screens is that they function as high-security screens year-round. When you have either our Amplimesh® SupaScreen®, IntrudaGuard® or PrivacyGuard® you get:
- Lockable, secure doors and windows
- Protection from intruders
- Clear outward visibility
- No bars or grilles
- Ventilation while maintaining safety
Rather than investing in separate products for fire protection and home security, bushfire screens offer a practical, cost-effective, two-in-one solution.
High-quality bushfire screens are designed to:
Stop airborne embers
The mesh size is engineered to prevent embers from entering through windows and other openings, significantly reducing the risk of spot fires inside the home.
Prevent radiant heat exposure
Stainless steel mesh resists warping, melting, or failing under radiant heat. This helps protect your windows, which are one of the most vulnerable components in a fire event.
Add a layer of security
Bushfire screens double as robust security screens, helping protect your home from break-ins while offering fire resistance.
Maintain airflow during high temperatures
Unlike solid shutters or barriers, bushfire screens allow windows to remain open during extreme heat without exposing the home to ember attack.
Increase overall fire safety
By addressing one of our primary causes of home loss during bushfires, these screens are a highly effective part of a complete bushfire mitigation strategy.
Materials and Compliance.
At Goldco® Security, our bushfire-rated screens are designed and manufactured using high-strength materials and industry-leading engineering. They are trusted by builders, architects, and homeowners across the Gold Coast and Tweed Heads region for their durability, long-term performance, and compliance with the latest bushfire construction requirements.
Our premium range, Amplimesh® SupaScreen® security screens have been tested and satisfy the requirements for Bushfire Attack Level including up to and including BAL-FZ the highest BAL category. Both IntrudaGuard® and PrivacyGuard® can be used in areas up to and including BAL-29.
Flyscreen and Diamond grille screens can also be used within a bushfire zone when fitted with the appropriate fly mesh such as Aluminium or Stain steel.
Ideal for Gold Coast and Tweed Heads Region
The Gold Coast and Tweed Heads region experiences hot, dry, and windy conditions, ideal environments for fast-moving bushfires. In fact, even parts of Burleigh, Robina and Miami have pockets designated as bushfire zones. Even if your home is not in a heavily forested area, embers from distant fires can still have devastating effects.
Bushfire screens are especially beneficial for:
- Homes bordering bushland
- Rural and semi-rural homes
- Hinterland properties
- Acreage properties
- Anyone looking for added protection during fire season
Whether your home or business is in a designated bushfire zone or you simply want to increase your level of preparedness, installing bushfire screens is a smart and responsible investment.
Professional Installation Matters
A bushfire screen is only as effective as its installation. Gaps, loose / incorrect fittings, or incorrect mounting can compromise performance and create fire entry points.
At Goldco® Security, we ensure:
- Accurate measurements
- BAL compliance
- Professional fitting with correct fixings
- Seamless integration with your doors and windows
- Long-lasting performance in harsh climates
Our team has extensive experience working on homes across the Gold Coast and Tweed Head region, ensuring your screens are installed to the highest standard.
Invest in Long-Term Protection
Our premium bushfire screens are not just protective accessories, they are a long-term investment in the safety, security, and resilience of your home or business. As fire seasons become more unpredictable and severe, the need for ember protection is greater than ever.
By choosing quality screens from Goldco® Security, you are choosing:
- Superior materials
- Certified bushfire compliance
- Professional installation
- Enhanced home security (based on screen type)
- Peace of mind for your family
Protecting your home or commercial property is about more than just keeping intruders out. In many Australian locations, bushfires are a critical consideration in building design and compliance. At Goldco® Security, we supply and install high-quality bushfire screens engineered to meet performance and compliance requirements, while blending seamlessly into the architectural style of your property. If you would like to find out more, contact our office on (07) 5572 2628 or visit our showroom.