Not every installation is a straight measure-and-quote job. Some homes have history and with that history comes a set of challenges that require a bit more thought, a bit more problem-solving, and someone who’s seen enough installs to know what’s actually possible.
Neil’s property in Gilston was exactly that kind of job. And it’s one we’re proud to tell the story of.
Neil’s home is a beautiful old farm-style property. The kind of place that has character most new builds can only try to imitate. But older homes come with older windows, and older windows don’t always play nicely with modern compliance requirements.
Neil needed fly screens installed, but before we could even start thinking about mesh and frames, there were two compliance boxes that needed to be ticked.
Fall protection. Council requirements for windows at height mean that openings need to be restricted to prevent falls. Neil’s solution was to have window chains installed. A straightforward fix that limits how far each window can open while still allowing proper ventilation. With the chains in place, the windows met fall compliance requirements and we could move forward.
BAL 12.5 rating. Neil’s property sits in a bushfire-prone area, which means it carries a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating. At BAL 12.5, there are specific requirements for what materials can be used around openings. To meet the standard, the fly screen frames and mesh needed to be aluminium, which is also one of the more affordable compliance-ready options. A practical win on both fronts.
Neil’s farmhouse windows aren’t your standard sliding windows. Because of the style and age of the frames, there was no existing track system for a fly screen to slide in and out of.
We custom-fabricated and installed sliding tracks to suit Neil’s existing window frames. This meant the fly screens could slide smoothly open and closed giving Neil the same easy operation you’d expect from a standard installation, without any of the fuss of a removable screen he’d have to store somewhere.
The result was a fly screen system that felt like it was always meant to be there.
Neil was kind enough to leave us a review after the job was done, and it’s one we appreciate enormously:
“Carefree Security have been absolutely fantastic to deal with, I had no idea in the process of certifying my house to meet BAL ratings. Right from the start they came and found innovative ways to help save me money. The staff are exceptional, this company will give you fast, professional service and will help anyway they can. 10/10”
Neil, Gilston
That’s exactly what we’re here for. When a homeowner doesn’t know where to start with compliance, our job is to take that weight off their shoulders and to find solutions that protect both their home and their budget.
Neil’s installation wasn’t a difficult situation to solve but it did require experience, attention to detail, and a willingness to think creatively rather than just defaulting to the standard approach.
A few things worth knowing if you have a similar situation:
We supply BAL-rated fly screens. If your property has a bushfire attack level rating, your fly screens need to comply. Aluminium mesh and framing meets the requirements for BAL 12.5 and beyond, and we can advise on exactly what your property needs.
We can work with non-standard and heritage windows. Older homes weren’t built to today’s dimensions. We regularly adapt our installations to suit unusual or heritage window frames via custom tracks, non-standard sizing, and creative mounting solutions are all part of what we do.
We help you understand the process. As Neil noted, the BAL certification process isn’t always obvious to homeowners. We’re happy to talk through what’s required, help you understand your compliance obligations, and make sure the products we install meet the mark.
If you’ve got an older home, non-standard windows, a BAL rating, or compliance questions you’re not sure how to answer, give us a call. We’ve been solving exactly these kinds of challenges on the Gold Coast for over 28 years.
A measure and quote is free, and we’ll always tell you what you actually need rather than overselling what you don’t. Fill out the form below or give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.
Carefree Security Screens & Blinds is a local family-owned business in Nerang, Gold Coast. We have over 28 years manufacturing, supplying and installing quality security screens for doors and windows, indoor blinds and outdoor awnings. If you're looking for a security screen installer near you, call us now.
We offer FREE measure and quotes, extensive warranties, and we stand by our products and quality workmanship. Serving the entire Gold Coast region, including Coolangatta and Jimboomba.
Located on the Gold Coast, Carefree Security Screens & Blinds have over 28 years of experience in delivering quality security screens, blinds, doors, awnings, and fly screens.
QBCC Licence Number: 68835
Carefree Security Screens & Blinds is a proud member of the National Security Screen Association.
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