If you’re in the market for window grille options, you might have come across the term ‘invisible grilles’. Technically, they aren’t really invisible. But you will have to look closely to see the fine, thin wires running across.
Source: Tulus ID
Serving mainly as a window safety feature, their surging popularity in Singapore stems mainly from the fact that you won’t need to sacrifice your view for safety. We spoke to TS Chung, owner of CSA Group, one of the leading brands of invisible grilles in Singapore, to find out why they make such a great option for your home:
1. Invisible grilles won’t rust (but only if you get the right ones)
Invisible grilles are actually made from stainless steel, encased in either plastic or rubber for extra protection. But while stainless steel is not as susceptible to rusting as other metals or alloys, it does rust, depending on what grade it is made up of. Unfortunately, not all stainless steels are made equal. Common stainless steel grades for invisible grilles include 410, 304 and 316. The first two actually do rust after being exposed to the elements for a period of time, while 316 won’t. So make sure you’re getting invisible grilles made from 316 stainless steel.
2. Choose whether you want them fixed in place or moveable
Fixed invisible grilles are fixed in place and cannot be moved
Source: CSA Group
Mounted onto the wall using cables, fixed invisible grilles, as their name suggests, cannot be moved after installation. They are usually used for balconies without existing window structures or in homes where additional structures cannot be installed like in certain condominiums. Do note that you will need a solid concrete wall to install fixed ones. They cannot be installed on fake walls or walls made from materials not as sturdy like wood for instance.
Frame fixed grilles set in a condominium balcony
Source: CSA Group
However, if you still prefer fixed grilles but don’t have a concrete wall to mount them on, CSA Group offers frame fixed invisible grilles which come with an additional frame structure.
Casement window grilles that can be moved with your windows
Source: CSA Group
Casement or sliding invisible grilles are installed on a casement window or a sliding window (or door!), which allows you to open your windows normally without any restriction. Because they require additional structures to fix them in place during installation, they tend to make your windows appear bulkier. However, it’s a popular choice for homeowners who want or require their windows to be accessible, such as in the case of older HDB flats, where the air-conditioning compressor is located just outside the bedroom window.
Invisible grilles installed on sliding doors
Source: CSA Group
3. Invisible grilles are plenty hardy
Besides being made from a hardy material like stainless steel, invisible grilles with a 2-mm thickness can hold a maximum weight of about 180 kg. CSA Group’s invisible grilles however, are 2.3 mm thick, which means they can hold a maximum weight of 234 kg.
Source: CSA Group
Invisible grilles also cannot be cut using ordinary scissors. So for folks with young children, there is no need to worry about your tykes cutting through the grilles during an unsupervised crafting session.
The grilles can however be cut using a wire cutter, so be aware that invisible grilles shouldn’t be used for deterring whoever’s outside from coming in e.g. burglars, but rather to keep the occupants inside the home safe.
4. Have kids? Got pets? There are a variety of installation options for different needs
The great thing about invisible grilles is how customisable they are. They can be installed with various gap widths, although CSA Group recommends 2 inches for homes with pets and 3 to 4 inches for homes with young children. For safety, it is not advisable to go beyond a 4-inch gap.
Invisible grilles arranged vertically in a condominium in Singapore
Source: CSA Group
Invisible grilles arranged horizontally in an HDB flat
Source: CSA Group
You can also choose to arrange the wires vertically or horizontally. Here’s a tip: Go vertical if you’re planning to install them on balconies or on long and narrow windows and horizontal if you have wider and broader openings.
5. It’s not just for windows, invisible grilles can be used as a design feature too
Instance of how invisible grilles can be used as a planter for climbing plants
Source: Pinterest
Other than using invisible grilles as a safety feature on windows, they can also be used as a design feature. Homeowners in Singapore have used them as a feature wall or even as an indoor planter!
Going invisible for your grilles? Get in touch with HomeFix & More (Hotline: +65 8181 1122) for more information on CSA Group’s invisible grilles today.
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