Wash security screens where they are, using warm mains water, a mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush, then rinse well with mains water. Never use strong detergents, abrasive cleaners, or tank, bore or recycled water. How often depends on how close you live to the sea: Invisi-Gard suggests every 1 to 2 weeks within 500 metres of the ocean, every 2 to 4 weeks within a kilometre, every 2 to 3 months up to 10 kilometres away, and every 6 months further inland.
Security screens live outside in sun, rain, dust and, in much of Townsville, salty air. A quick clean every so often keeps them looking new, keeps the mesh and frames in good shape and, for Invisi-Gard, is part of keeping the warranty valid.
What you'll need
- A soft-bristled brush or soft mitt
- A bucket of warm water with a little mild detergent
- A hose on mains water
How to do it
- Brush the screen gently with the warm, soapy water. Do both sides if you can reach them.
- Pay attention to the edges of the frame where the mesh is held in, because dirt and salt collect there.
- Rinse well with mains water, making sure no detergent is left in the mesh or the frame.
- Try not to flood the locks with water.
That's it. You don't need to take the screens off.
What not to do
- No strong detergents or abrasive cleaners. They can damage the coating on the mesh and frame.
- No tank, bore or recycled water. Invisi-Gard's care guide says mains water only.
- No oil or spray lubricants on the locks. Use graphite powder. Liquid and aerosol lubricants can cause corrosion and damage the lock.
Bird and bat droppings
Bird and bat droppings are very acidic and can quickly burn the powder coat on the frame and the coating on the mesh. Clean them off as soon as you see them, using mild detergent and a soft brush, then rinse well.
How often?
Invisi-Gard's care guide bases it on how far you are from the ocean or a salty bay:
- Within 500 metres: every 1 to 2 weeks
- 500 metres to 1 kilometre: every 2 to 4 weeks
- 1 to 10 kilometres: every 2 to 3 months
- More than 10 kilometres: every 6 months
Alspec, who make Invisi-Gard and Alu-Gard, also suggest cleaning their screens at least monthly in tropical or severe conditions. Plenty of Townsville homes are within 10 kilometres of the water, so if you're not sure, more often is better.
Why it matters for the warranty
Invisi-Gard's lifetime mesh warranty and 15-year frame warranty depend on the screens being looked after according to the care guide. Regular cleaning is the easiest way to make sure you're covered. See warranty and care for what's covered and how to register your Invisi-Gard warranty.
Got a screen that's looking tired, or a lock that's playing up? Give us a call on 07 4728 9554, or see our security screens.
Common questions
Can I clean security screens without taking them off?
Yes. Wash them in place with warm mains water, a mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush, then rinse well.
Can I use tank water to clean my screens?
Invisi-Gard's care guide says only mains water should be used. Recycled, bore or tank water is not acceptable.
What should I use on a sticky security door lock?
Invisi-Gard recommends graphite powder only. Liquid or spray lubricants can cause corrosion and damage the locking mechanism.
Can I use a pressure washer?
Invisi-Gard's care guide calls for a soft-bristled brush and a rinse with mains water, so we'd stick to that rather than a pressure washer.
GNB Shade & Security Specialists (Garry Neven Blinds) is a family-owned business in Garbutt, Townsville, with more than 30 years in security screens, plantation shutters, blinds, roller shutters and outdoor blinds. We're a licensed Invisi-Gard dealer, everything we sell is made in Australia, and we measure, build and install to order. Free measure and quote on 07 4728 9554.
