roller shutter repair by DT Services

Roller Shutters Repairs

There are many reasons why roller shutters can become worn and damaged over time. We'll go over some of the main causes of roller shutter repairs.

Table of Contents

What are roller shutters?

Roller shutters are a popular feature amongst industrial, commercial and sometimes domestic premises across the UK. Constructed of individual slats of metal (usually aluminium or steel), a roller shutter rolls around a barrel above the door and they open vertically.

Roller shutters offer a range of benefits for a property. They are commonly used as a way to increase the security of a building, by making it more difficult to gain entry to windows and doors. You will often see roller shutters installed on shop fronts, to protect the premises during shop closure. They also bring a range of other benefits too, such as: protection from vandalism, extra insulation, and providing a sound barrier.

But did you know that roller shutters require regular maintenance to stay operational? Depending on the style of door, the intended use, and location, various issues can crop up which require the attention of a professional team to carry out roller shutter repairs.

Common Roller Shutter Problems

Here we will explain the most common ways in which roller shutters can become damaged, and some of the preferred courses of action to rectify them.

Roller Shutters in High Winds

Although roller shutters are rated for wind, exposure to extreme wind, or even higher-than-usual wind for a long period of time, can cause damage to roller shutters. The wind can cause roller shutters to become misaligned, with the subsequent weakening leading to shutters falling off or blowing in. You should pay particular consideration to how windy your location is during your installation, for example a coastal area susceptible to high winds, such as Hull or Scarborough, may need extra consideration.

Protection from high winds can be achieved by installing wider guide rails or a wind lock. A wind-locked guide helps to keep the curtain where it should be, instead of coming loose and blowing out altogether. For areas with especially high gusts of winds, again like coastal areas, the installation of a ram raid bar may even be advised to prevent the door from blowing in.

Shutters and Robbery

One of the main reasons that premies have roller shutters is to prevent robbery. Unfortunately, robbery is also one of the most common ways that roller shutters become damaged. Would-be thieves have been known to attack roller shutters with saws, crowbars, and even vehicles.

Using a vehicle to attack a building front is known as a ram raid, which happened to this store in Hull. We were able to replace the entire shop front on this occasion, however it was a large expense and inconvenience to the customer. A roller shutter can offer protection to a building’s entrance, however it will bear the brunt of any impact and can become damaged.

This door has been knocked out of its guides due to a vehicle collision.

To protect roller shutters from ram raid attacks, an anti-ram bar can be fitted in front of the door as a deterrent. The steel post provides protection against people attacking your premises with their vehicle. Another option is bollards, which can offer high resistance to vehicle attacks. With retractable options available, there’s no need to worry about retaining legitimate vehicle access to your premises.

Wear and Tear on Roller Shutters

Shutters may be in use 365 days of the year. And like most of us who drive a car every day, you don’t always think about the condition of the moving parts within. However, roller shutters are made from complex machinery that needs looking after, including motors and sensors.

Some common issues include: doors stuttering or jerking as they open and close, doors only opening or closing halfway, motors overheating, electrical failures, and accidental vehicle damage which can cause misalignment.

The weather will also play a part in how quickly roller shutters degrade. In poor weather, the strain on roller shutter motors and mechanisms will be greater.

These issues can range in severity. If your roller shutters suffer from any of these issues, your best course of action is to consult a suitable qualified technician who will be able to diagnose problems and advise on the best course of action.

DT Services Ltd Roller Shutter Services

DT Services have been manufacturing, installing and maintaining roller shutters for over 20 years. Should you decide that it’s time for new roller shutters, or your existing ones are in need of repair, then get in touch with us today and we can arrange for a consultation with one of our expert roller shutter engineers.

If it’s maintenance you’re after, we also offer a maintenance plan which keeps your roller shutters running effectively, safely and legally and you get access to preferential rates.