How to replace security door mesh?

DIYH

Hello

I have criss cross security doors and fly screens to the back of my house which I don't like obscuring the view of my garden.

I will eventually replace, but for now is it possible to remove, cut out the cross cross keeping the frame and replace with fly screen mesh? Not sure how I would attach the mesh on to the existing frame .

I intend on replacing the entire window and door to larger sizes so looking for a budget temporary option.

Thanks so much!

MitchellMc

Hi @DIYH ,

It’s a creative idea, but unfortunately, security doors with a criss‑cross grille aren’t really designed to be modified in the way you’re hoping.

On most of these doors, the criss‑cross pattern is part of the structural integrity of the door. The outer frame is mostly there to finish it off and provide something to hinge and latch onto. In fact, on many older or lightweight models, the frame alone is quite flexible and wouldn’t hold its shape properly without the internal grille supporting it.

There are a few issues you’d likely run into:

• Frame flexing: Once the grille is removed, the perimeter frame can easily twist or bend, which can stop the door closing properly.
• Difficult construction: Many criss‑cross doors have the screen mesh held in by a trim piece that’s riveted in place. You need to drill out those rivets to remove the trim, which is quite a job in itself.
• Sharp edges: Cutting the grille flush to the frame leaves sharp, dangerous metal stubs around the entire perimeter. Trying to cut them perfectly flush usually damages the frame.
• Not designed for spline mesh: Standard flyscreen mesh normally pushes into a dedicated spline channel. Most security doors with grilles simply don’t have this channel, so you’d have no proper way to tension or secure new mesh.

For those reasons, I’d recommend sticking with your current door until you’re ready to replace it entirely.

If you’d like a budget‑friendly temporary improvement, you might consider swapping the door for an inexpensive screen door instead. Something like the Pillar 2024 x 806mm Monument Imperial Contemporary Screen Door offers a clearer view without the visual obstruction of a grille.

Bunnings also has a Door Installation Service, which can take the hassle out of fitting a replacement.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell