Roller shutters are commonly found in business establishments. The obvious reason why most business owners opt to have them installed is because of the level of security this provides. However, what most people do not know is that there is also a wide range of domestic roller shutters available in the market.

You can enjoy several lifestyle, security and financial benefits from domestic roller shutters. If you are seriously considering having them installed, then you should carefully plan which type to buy. Below are the six important factors you have to consider when you are choosing roller shutters.

Placement

One of the first things you have to think about is where you plan on installing your roller shutters. When you opt for interior shutters for your windows, they can easily be adjusted from inside the house. Moreover, they are also ideal for increasing the privacy of your home. You will have the freedom to choose if you want your windows fully or partially covered.

On the other hand, exterior shutters are perfect if you prioritise aesthetic appeal. Aside from making your home beautiful, an exterior roller shutter can also help protect any window from the harsh weather and elements. So, if your primary purpose is to security and protection from the elements, then it would be best to choose exterior shutters.

Panel Style

The style of your roller shutter’s panels serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. Here are some of the common panel styles for roller shutters:

• Louvered shutters – A series of wood panels that overlap on a single frame. This panel style is ideal if you want to add warmth or a ‘country’ vibe to your home. Used as both interior and exterior roller shutters, they are also offered in single and double-height options.
• Raised panels – These have shakers that typically have a flat body and they look like small boxes with rectangular frames. Raised panels are typically designed with a series of indentions that do not necessary have to stick out.
• Plantation shutters – If you want to have a better control over natural light coming into your home, then plantation shutters are the ideal style for you. You can roll them down and yet allow a conservative amount of natural light into your house. Typically, they are mounted inside the house, but you still have the option to place them outside.
• Board and batten shutters – These are typically designed with a series of wooden boards that are connected to each other through a series of battens. When you purchase them, you can usually find suppliers who customise them according to your needs. You can achieve a classy or rustic vibe for your home when you choose board and batten shutters.
• Scandinavian shutters – These shutters are ideal for covering curve-styled windows. They are typically mounted as exterior shutters. So, they are perfect for protecting your windows from fierce winds, hailstorms and hurricanes.

Size

The size of your roller shutters also affects their look and functionality. Here are some of the options you can typically find from suppliers:

• Partial Covering – More commonly referred to as café-style shutters, this type of roller shutter covers half of the windows. Its design is inspired by European cafes with shutters that partially cover the windows. With its clean and crisp look, you can easily add sophistication to your home’s exterior.
• Full height shutters – These shutters are typically used to cover the entire window. This is perfect for homeowners who want to keep the sun out or those who want to enjoy complete privacy in their home.
• Solid shutters – Made with solid panels, these shutters are useful for blocking the sun’s harmful UV rays as well as reducing the outdoor noise that comes into the house.
• Tier-on-tier shutters – With this option, you can have the freedom to choose between having your windows closed or open and at the same time, you can still enjoy full protection for your windows and home.

Shape

The most common roller shutter shapes are rectangle, arched, French door cut, trapezoid and even circle. However, there are other shapes you can request from your supplier, including octagon and angle top.

Material

There are several materials you can choose for your roller shutters. Each of them has their own advantages and disadvantages. So, you should carefully choose one that will work best for you.

The most popular material choice for roller shutters is wood. It works well with most kinds of shutters. It can be cut in a range of ways and it can be sealed and painted according to your preference. The other popular option is laminate which is made of lumber slats. They are linked together, creating a secure and durable set of shutters.

The cost-effective option is aluminium shutters. Since they are highly resistant to corrosion, they are ideal for people who want low maintenance and long-lasting roller shutters. This material extends the life and aesthetic value of your roller shutters. However, aluminium can easily dent. So it is best to check it every once in a while.

Security

Of course, security is the most obvious reason why you should have roller shutters installed. So, it would only be fitting that you choose a product that has impeccable features for security. Here are some of the important qualities of a secure roller shutter.

Two-Piece Rail System

When you are buying roller shutters, you have to check whether the product has a two-piece rail system. This system efficiently hides the fasteners. Once the installation process is complete, you can prevent outside access and stop unauthorised people from tampering with the rails.

Deeper Rail Channel

When the rail channel is shallow the chances for forcing the curtain out of the rail may be higher. This is highly possible especially when the burglar is tenacious and very persistent. By choosing roller shutters with a deeper guide rail, you are significantly lowering the possibility of such incident from happening. The industry standard for rail channels is 25mm, but you will find some products with a 40mm channel.

Edge Retention System

One of the most secure roller shutters in the market is those with an edge retention system. Such rail system has hooks on the ends of the curtain and grooves on the inside of the rail. The more force anyone exerts onto the curtain, the further the hooks hold onto the grooves. As such, the curtain becomes firmly secured into the rail channel.

It is important to note that roller shutters with an edge retention system are more costly than other options. However, they are ideal for properties in high-risk areas. Edge retention rail systems were designed for protection amidst a hurricane, but the added bonus is their high-security qualities.

As you can see, there are a lot of factors to consider when you want to buy good quality roller shutters. So, it is best that you consult with professionals who can guide you through the available options. In the end, what’s important is you make a decision that is suitable to your taste, budget and requirements.