More homeowners are installing roller shutters to improve security on their premises. Besides extra protection, these structures provide insulation, helping reduce energy costs. They also protect against inclement weather, loud sounds and block unwanted light.
To make the right purchase, you must know the different types of domestic shutters available in the market. You can classify shutter types by material, operation, and placement.
Roller Shutter Types by Material
Here are the different materials used to construct roller shutters.
M. S. Roller Shutter
Mild-steel roller shutters are the most common shutter doors. In the past, they were mainly used on commercial premises. They consist of high-quality steel rods and galvanised iron sheets.
MS roller shutters are easy to install. Their main advantages include extra security, insulation, enhanced privacy, and protection against harsh weather.
On the downside, MS shutters aren’t attractive. Consider other options if you’re keen on maintaining your home’s visual appeal. Also, these shutters are susceptible to rusting if exposed to humid conditions.
Aluminium Roller Shutters
If you want a shutter that offers the benefits of MS roller shutters, plus a beautiful design and rust resistance, consider installing aluminium roller shutters. Moreover, aluminium is lightweight.
Additionally, aluminium has excellent conductivity. As a result, it loses heat faster during hot days, keeping your interior cooler, and vice versa. This natural insulation property reduces reliance on air conditioning units, lowering your electricity bill.
The most significant disadvantage of aluminium roller shutters is cost. You must part with extra cash to enjoy the benefits of aluminium shutters.
Polycarbonate Roller Shutters
Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic material developed to replace glass. It is significantly tougher and offers better resistance against temperature changes than glass. In addition, when used to make roller shutters, polycarbonate adds a different dimension – transparency.
Polycarbonate shutters are essentially toughened glass. They maintain the aesthetic of standard glass doors and windows while protecting your home against burglars and inclement weather.
On the downside, polycarbonate shutters are expensive. Their surfaces are susceptible to scratching, which ruins their aesthetic appeal. They are useless if you want privacy and can let burglars see your home.
Roller Shutters by Operation
Here are the different shutter types by operation.
Mechanical Roller Shutters
Mechanical roller shutters operate manually; you must pull a lever or roll down the sheet to close or open the shutter. Manual shutters are suitable for small-scale applications, such as homes. They are cheap and easy to operate. However, it takes effort to open and close them.
Automatic Roller Shutters
Automatic roller shutters have an electric motor and gearbox that allow you to open and close them using a button. The main benefit of these shutters is convenience.
You don’t need effort, and some have fancy features like remote control. In addition, automated shutters have manual overrides that allow operation during power outages.
Roller Shutters by Placement
Here, there are built-on and built-in roller shutters.
Built-in Roller Shutters
Built-in roller shutters are fixed to the frame of your doors or windows. When opened, the shutters ‘disappear,’ ensuring they don’t interfere with your home’s visual appeal.
Built-on Roller Shutters
Built-on roller shutters are fixed onto the wall, meaning the headbox and rails are visible. Regardless, they don’t affect your property’s aesthetic significantly. In addition, these shutters are cheap and easy to install.
Final Words
Each roller shutter type has flaws, explaining why many options are available in the market. In most cases, you must combine different styles to achieve the many benefits of roller shutters.
However, aluminum roller shutters have the upper hand over other types because they are attractive and guarantee excellent protection against burglary and harsh weather. Moreover, if motorized, they offer unmatched convenience.
