24/7 Roller Shutter Repair Specialists Covering London & Kent

What are Roller Shutters and why do we use them?

What are Roller Shutters and why do we use them
28/05/2024

Owning a building comes with a lot of responsibilities. Staying on top of maintenance, arranging for cleaning, and making sure the lights stay on are just some of the tasks you'll need to take care of, but there's one responsibility that stands out above the rest: keeping everyone and everything inside safe. The best way to do that? Investing in a roller shutter. 

The team at Quay Facilities have years of experience working with roller shutters throughout London, Kent, and the South, so we know these systems inside and out. Below, we'll break down exactly what roller shutters are, the benefits they offer, and the many types you can choose from.

What Is a Roller Shutter?

A roller shutter, also known as a sectional overhead door or roller door, is a type of door made up of horizontal slats. These slats are connected by hinges and roll up vertically into a box at the top of the opening when opened. Slats may sometimes be replaced by web systems or bars.

What Are the Benefits of Installing a Roller Shutter?

Roller shutters are a common sight in both commercial and residential settings, from garages and vans to warehouses, schools, and prisons. Here are the main reasons why:

  • Security: This is the most obvious benefit. Roller shutters are built using heavy-duty metal, making them a formidable barrier against burglars and vandals. Their solid appearance acts as a strong deterrent, while the closed shutters obscure the view inside, reducing the appeal for would-be thieves.
  • Weather protection: Beyond security, roller shutters also offer valuable protection from the elements. They can shield your property from wind, rain, hail, and flying debris, helping to safeguard windows, doors, and siding. Insulated roller shutters can also improve insulation in the summer or winter, potentially reducing cooling or heating costs.
  • Noise reduction: Roller shutters (especially those with insulated laths) can help dampen outside sounds, creating a quieter and more peaceful environment within the property.
  • Space saving: Unlike traditional swinging doors, roller shutters open vertically. This means they don't take up any extra space when open, which can be a valuable advantage in tight spaces.
  • Fire protection: Some roller shutters are specifically designed to resist fire for a certain amount of time, providing an additional layer of protection in case of a fire.

What types of roller shutters are there?

Roller shutters are often custom-made for the space they're meant to protect, so there isn't really a single, simple category they all fall under. That said, they can generally be grouped into a few main types:

Industrial roller shutters

Industrial roller shutters are the most heavy-duty option available, commonly found in warehouses, factories, and other industrial settings. They're usually constructed using thicker, heavy-gauge steel and come equipped with additional security features, such as locking bolts and specialised systems, to guarantee the maximum level of protection.

As they're often installed on loading bays, industrial shutters tend to be much larger than other types of shutter (reaching heights of around 5 metres) to allow for the easy passage of lorries. Some may feature a wicket pass door to let pedestrians enter and exit without the need to fully open the entire shutter.

Commercial roller shutters

Commercial roller shutters are the go-to choice for shop fronts and other retail spaces. They come in a variety of materials, including steel, aluminium, and polycarbonate, and offer a wider range of design options compared to industrial shutters - these include solid, perforated, open-grilled, or punched and glazed. They offer an excellent balance between security, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetic appeal.

Domestic roller shutters

Domestic roller shutters are designed with both aesthetics and security in mind, making them a popular choice for residential garages. They often feature larger sections instead of numerous small slats, giving them a more traditional and visually appealing look. They can be galvanised or powder-coated in a range of finishes and colours, allowing you to coordinate them with the overall style of your home.

Fire-rated roller shutters

Fire-rated roller shutters are built to withstand heat and flames, shielding both the interior and exterior of an opening from flammable materials. They're the preferred choice for industrial and commercial properties that require a temperature rise rating.

Insulated roller shutters

Insulated roller shutters shield against the weather and help conserve energy, reducing your facility's bills. They also offer excellent sound insulation, making them suitable for use in industrial environments like spray paint booths, garages, factories, and warehouses.

Security grilles

Security grilles have a lattice or grated design with gaps between the metal bars. They're more commonly used by shops, as they allow customers to still see the products on display while providing an additional layer of security, or in car parks where visibility is important.

Fortify Your Property with Quay Facilities' High-Quality Roller Shutters

Keep your property safe and looking smart with Quay Facilities' premium roller shutters! We design, supply, and install custom-built shutters that offer the ultimate protection against intruders, without compromising the aesthetics of your business or home.

Here are just some of the benefits of choosing us:

  • Made with top-of-the-line materials, our shutters are built to withstand even the most determined attempts at forced entry.
  • 12-month parts and labour warranty included for added confidence.
  • We make each shutter to measure, making sure they perfectly fit your specific needs and style preferences.
  • Our highly trained technicians provide a smooth and professional installation.
  • We also provide scheduled maintenance contracts and 24/7 repairs for total peace of mind.

 

If you're ready to take the first step, get a quote online or call us on 0208 2266 247 today! Our experts are happy to answer any questions and help you find the perfect roller shutter solution for your needs.