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While Invisigard and Crimsafe security doors have similarities, there are some notable differences between them.

Both reduce the risk of forced entry into your home, and as such, meet some very rigorous tests and standards.

The main differences relate to the materials used, screen fixing methods and available models.

What is better than Crimsafe?

Both Crimsafe and Invisi-Gard are high-quality security screen options, but there are some differences between the two. Crimsafe uses a unique, patented Screw-Clamp™ technology, which secures the stainless steel mesh to the frame with tamper-resistant screws. This design makes it virtually impossible for intruders to break through, while still allowing for excellent airflow and visibility. Invisi-Gard, on the other hand, uses a different system of interlocking pieces to secure the mesh, which may not be as strong as the Screw-Clamp™ technology used by Crimsafe. Additionally, Crimsafe screens are tested to withstand the impact of a 100kg intruder, while Invisi-Gard screens are tested up to 50kg. Overall, while both options offer excellent security and aesthetic appeal, the unique design and rigorous testing of Crimsafe make it a standout choice for those seeking the ultimate in home security.

Let's compare the two by diving more into the key features.

Mesh material

Both brands use a form of stainless steel mesh for their door security screens. In both cases, the mesh passes the Knife-Shear test (AS5039) – designed to test the mesh against repeated knife attacks. To meet the standard, the mesh must not tear more than 150mm after three attacks.
Invisigard utilises 0.8mm 316-grade stainless steel mesh for its door security screens. 316-grade stainless steel contains molybdenum, which renders it resistant to sea spray and makes the material highly non-corrosive.

Crimsafe uses patented Tensile-Tuff 304-grade stainless steel material to create the security mesh on all its doors. This material is 26.5% thicker than your typical stainless steel mesh, including 0.8mm 316-grade security mesh.

304-grade stainless steel mesh is not marine-grade in itself. However, on Crimsafe’s security doors, Santoprene rubber is used to insulate the mesh. Santoprene is a UV-resistant patented material that reduces water penetration and salt build-up, in turn creating a strong anti-corrosive effect in harsh environments. This is evidenced by the fact that Crimsafe doors meet the standard for resistance to salt spray (AS2331.3.1).

Why this matters
High quality stainless steel mesh is critical not only for preventing attacks, but also to ensure the doors are resistant to corrosion, and are easy to clean and maintain. Both brands meet Australian standards in this regard and have warranties ranging from 10 to 15 years.

Mesh-securing method

The brands use a different method for securing the mesh within its aluminium frame.
Invisigard screens are clamped using a technique called EGP (Extreme Grip Protection). EGP was developed by Invisigard and has its own patent.

EGP uses shaped extrusions of PVC to capture the mesh into the frame. It then uses a PVC wedge to lock in the mesh. Invisigard prefers this approach as it avoids the need for screws or mechanical fixing and contact between metals.

Crimsafe uses its own patented screw-clamp technology to fix the mesh in place. This involves using tamper-resistant stainless steel screws, giving the mesh an incredibly tight grip within the frame, and enabling it to withstand extremely high forces. To secure the screen, it is placed between two separate pieces of metal, and a screw is then fixed through the mesh and the frame. The number of screws used depends on the door model.

Once fixed, a Crimsafe screen can only be removed with a Crimsafe tooling system. All Crimsafe materials are also treated to prevent corrosion.
Crimsafe’s clamping method transfers impact forces around the frame. This contrasts with other methods that tend to localise impacts, potentially leading to weakening of the grip over time.

Why this is important
Security doors need to demonstrate that the screen cannot be easily removed from the frame using a lever or other instrument.
Since burglars usually want to operate as quickly as possible, being unable to remove the screen will greatly slow down or eliminate their efforts to gain entry. In fact, the presence of a security door in itself can be a deterrent for would-be offenders.

Strength and resistance to force

Security doors must pass dynamic impact tests (AS5041). These tests involve delivering five strikes from a weighted bag that delivers 100 joules of energy at the door each time. To pass, the screen must demonstrate it can withstand all five strikes.

Both brands meet or exceed the test for dynamic force for their products. For example, the Crimsafe Classic model provides over 5 x the standard and its Heavy Duty model exceeds the standard 12-fold. Invisigard security screen doors offer 10 x the standard.

Why is this important?
Offenders are likely to kick or strike a door not just once but several times over. The test is performed to show that the door has the strength to resist multiple kick attacks from a person or persons attempting to gain entry.

Locking mechanisms

Invisigard security doors come with 3-point locking. This refers to the number of secure points where the door locks into the frame.
Crimsafe doors also come with 3-point locking, with the exception of the iQ model which offers six to 10 points and the option of electronic locking.

Why does this matter?
Multi-point locking enables the door to be locked at several points in the door jamb, making locking up much more secure than in the case of single-point mechanism.

Available models

Invisigard offers one model, that comes with multiple applications – these being sliding, single hinged, or French door screens.
All Invisigard screens are made from the same 316-grade stainless steel mesh, come with a 15-year warranty, and offer 2,000 hours of salt spray corrosion protection.

Crimsafe has four models on offer:

• Classic – up to 550 joules of impact and a 12-year warranty.
• Ultimate – up to 750 joules of impact and a 15-year warranty. The Ultimate has the highest number of applications in the range.
• iQ – similar features to Ultimate but with additional locking points and only one application (hinged door).
• Heavy Duty – up to 1200 joules impact and 10-year warranty.

At MSD, we also offer the option of designer Crimsafe laser cut security doors to our customers. These doors consist of a security screen door with the added strength, security and durability of a steel laser cut panel.

All Crimsafe security doors use Tensile-Tuff mesh and offer 3,000 hours of corrosion resistance. Applications include hinged, sliding, stacking, French, and bi-fold, depending on the model.

Why this matters
A variety of products allows for a greater range of solutions. It means the best product can be selected according to regional risk, property style, taste, application, and budget.

Resistance to bushfire

Both brands pass the AS3959 standard for homes in bushfire-prone zones.

Invisigard screens have a BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) 40 rating – the second-most severe attack level. This means the screens provide protection against ember attack and heat flux.

Similarly, Crimsafe’s screens provide protection from ember attack and radiant heat. They also protect glass from burning debris up to BAL-FZ (the most severe bushfire attack level) when used in conjunction with compliant windows.

Why this is important
Security doors are an investment. As such they not only need to able to resist attack from intruders and protect your property, but also from natural disasters like bushfire so they can last as long as possible.

Need help choosing the right security door for your home or business? Get in touch with our team for a quote.