If you own a home with a garage, shed, or outbuilding, ensuring that your property is secure and practical is a top priority. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by installing roller doors, which offer enhanced security, convenience, and weather protection.
In this guide, we’ll delve into roller doors, discussing what they are, how they work, the benefits they bring to homes, and what you can expect from the installation process. Keep reading to learn more!
What Are Roller Doors?
Roller doors feature horizontal slats that operate on either a manual or electrical mechanism, which allows them to then roll around a drum (when the door opens) for convenient and compact storage. This space-saving design and efficient mechanism makes them ideal for those who may be limited on space and/or require easy access, yet still wish to benefit from the security such doors provide.
These doors are typically made from steel or aluminium, which gives them the flexible properties required to be able to coil around the drum in this way, yet still maintain adequate strength and durability - as is required for maximum security.
Roller Door Mechanisms
As previously stated, roller doors can be operated either manually or electronically, using a range of control options.
In terms of manual operation, there will be a handle at the bottom of the roller door, requiring you to simply lift or lower it in order for the slats to then roll around or unroll from the drum. Manual roller doors often come with a keyhole in the centre or bottom of the door, allowing it to be locked into position when it’s closed.
As for roller doors that are operated electronically, these are attached to a motor to roll and unroll the door, which is then operated by a compatible control system. These control systems can vary, with some common systems including:
● Keypads
● Remote controls
● Control panels
● Smart connectivity (wireless)
● Wall-mounted transmitters
The Benefits They Offer Homeowners
Enhanced Security
Garages often house valuable tools, vehicles, or equipment, making them a potential target for theft. Roller doors offer a sturdy barrier against unauthorised access thanks to their durable construction, typically made from steel or aluminium. These materials are not only difficult to break through but also produce significant noise if tampered with, acting as a deterrent to burglars.
Additionally, a combination of roller doors and window shutters can protect weak points like windows and side doors that intruders might target, adding an extra layer of security. Their locking mechanisms, whether manual or electric, provide homeowners with peace of mind that their belongings are safeguarding.
Improved Privacy
Roller doors are particularly beneficial for households that value privacy. If you use your garage as a workshop or a gym, or store valuable equipment inside, roller doors effectively block the view from passers-by. This ensures that your belongings and activities remain concealed, reducing the likelihood of unwanted attention.
The added privacy can also be a relief for those who want to work or relax in their garage without interruptions, providing a sense of security and personal space.
Weather Protection
The UK’s unpredictable weather can cause significant damage to unprotected spaces. Roller doors are designed to shield your garage interior from heavy rain, strong winds, snow, and even UV rays. This helps prevent water damage, rust, and fading of stored items or equipment.
For homeowners with vehicles or sensitive materials stored in their garage, this level of protection is essential. Roller doors also reduce the risk of flooding by providing a tightly sealed barrier against the elements, keeping your belongings dry and secure.
Low Maintenance
Not only are roller doors a cost-effective investment, they also require little maintenance. The materials they’re made from are resistant to corrosion and rust, making them long lasting and requiring little to no intervention on your part to upkeep. Furthermore, they use simple operating systems with few moving parts, reducing the need for frequent repairs.
All that is required maintenance-wise might be some surface cleaning and the lubrication of moving parts - neither of which are particularly laborious.
Space Efficiency
Unlike traditional swing doors that require room to open outward, roller doors operate vertically and roll neatly into a compact drum above the entrance. This space-saving design is particularly useful for homes with narrow driveways or limited garage space.
This feature allows homeowners to park vehicles closer to the door or utilise the surrounding area for storage without worrying about obstructing the door’s movement.
Energy Efficiency
Roller doors can help maintain consistent temperatures within your garage, making them an excellent choice for energy-conscious households. While insulated roller doors offer the highest level of thermal efficiency, even standard models reduce drafts and heat loss.
For garages attached to the main home, this can lead to lower heating costs during colder months, as less heat escapes into the garage. Maintaining a stable temperature also helps preserve sensitive equipment, tools, and vehicles stored inside.
Noise Reduction
Roller doors not only block external noise from entering your garage but also help minimise noise when operating the door itself. Modern roller doors are designed with smooth mechanisms and noise-dampening materials, making them quieter than older or traditional garage doors.
This is particularly useful for families living in residential areas where noise considerations are important, ensuring that opening or closing the door doesn’t disturb neighbours or household members.
Customisable Options
Homeowners can choose from a wide range of colours, finishes, and control systems to match their property’s style and needs. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or something more traditional, roller doors can be tailored to suit your aesthetic preferences. Accessories such as smart controls, motion sensors, and additional locks provide further customisation.
What Our Garage Door Installers Will Do
On-Site Survey
Before having roller doors installed at your home, our installers here at Roller Door UK will carry out a site visit, whereby they will use their expertise to assess your property and to help establish whether a roller door will be suitable.
They will note any specific requirements and take key measurements, so a made-to-measure door can be created to fit into the available space.
Choosing a Suitable Door
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