Securing your business is about more than just locks and alarms. You need visible, physical barriers that deter thieves and provide a robust defence against an attempted break-in.
That’s why security grilles are a wise idea. Grilles are a simple, durable and highly effective way to strengthen the security of your business premises.
Here, we explore the range of security grilles available, to help you choose the right solution for your site.
What are security grilles?
Security grilles (also known as security gates, folding gates, security screens or lattice grilles) are heavy-duty metal barriers. They’re a building security product designed to prevent unauthorised access through doors and windows.
Typically made from galvanised steel or aluminium, they create a strong physical defence while allowing light and ventilation to pass through. Depending on your business requirements, grilles can be fixed or retractable, manual or automatic, internal or external.
Types of security grilles
Here’s a rundown of the main types of security grilles available.
Door grilles
Designed to secure entrances, door security grilles come in all shapes and sizes. They can be fitted to secure a standard door or to prevent access across a large entranceway — and they can be fully retractable to maintain day-to-day accessibility.
Security grilles for windows
Windows are often a weak point when it comes to security. Installing metal security grilles for windows adds a visible layer of protection without blocking daylight. They’re ideal for ground floor offices, showrooms and storefronts.
Retractable security grilles
Retractable (or collapsible) grilles are among the most popular commercial grilles. These folding security gates slide smoothly out of the way when not in use, maintaining an open, welcoming environment during operating hours. After hours, they lock into place to secure your building.
Fixed grilles
Where constant, high-level protection is needed, fixed grilles provide a permanent barrier. Built from heavy-duty steel, they’re bolted directly into the structure for maximum strength. You’re most likely to use fixed security grilles for windows.
Manual security grilles
Simple, dependable and cost-effective, manual grilles are opened and closed by hand, and locked with a key or padlock. They’re a good choice for smaller access points or sites with lower footfall.
Automatic security grilles
Motorised or automated systems are designed for high-traffic or heavy-duty environments where quick, effortless operation is important. They can be integrated with keypads, sensors or remote control.
Internal security grilles
You can use internal security grilles to block off an area within your building when it’s not in use. Common applications include shopping centres, supermarkets and airports. It’s also possible to install internal security grilles on the inside of external doors and windows.
External security grilles
External security grilles sit on the outside of windows, doors and entranceways. They’re designed to withstand break-ins and whatever the British weather throws at them, too.
At SDS, we design, manufacture and install all types of security grilles. Every grille is custom-made for your windows or doors, using your choice of materials, lattice design, powder-coat finish and locking system.
Where are security grilles used?
Door and window security screens are used across virtually every sector. Common applications include:
- Retail and hospitality: Securing shop fronts, bar areas and service counters after hours.
- Industrial and logistics: Protecting loading bays, specialist equipment and storage zones.
- Commercial offices: Adding protection to reception areas, IT rooms and internal corridors.
- Public buildings: Restricting access to sensitive spaces and securing windows on ground floors.
Because they can be discreet or highly visible depending on your needs, security grilles are one of the most flexible physical security solutions available.
Key benefits of security grilles
So why choose to install window and door grilles at your business? Here are some of the benefits you can expect.
A strong physical barrier
Security grilles are built to withstand cutting, prising and impact. Their presence alone can deter break-ins while their structural integrity resists a physical attack — protecting assets and stock around the clock.
Ventilation and visibility
Unlike solid shutters, grilles allow light and air to pass through. This is great for spaces that need continuous ventilation, visibility or temperature regulation — and spaces where you simply value the benefit of natural light.
Customisable design
You can get made-to-measure security grilles, designed to meet your operational and aesthetic requirements perfectly. You can choose from different designs, finishes, opening systems and locking mechanisms.
Space saving
Retractable security grilles tuck neatly away when open, keeping doorways unobstructed during the working day. This makes them ideal for busy entrances and spaces that are restricted out of business hours.
Low maintenance
Made from galvanised steel or aluminium, metal security grilles are resistant to rust and require minimal upkeep. Routine inspection and oiling are all you need to keep them performing reliably for years.
Cost-effective
Compared to manned security solutions, security gates offer exceptional value. They provide permanent, low-maintenance protection, reducing your risk of loss and downtime for a relatively small investment.
Professional appearance
A security grille doesn’t have to look industrial. With powder-coated finishes and smart lattice designs, your grille can complement your building’s façade, providing security that enhances your business curb appeal.
Installation and maintenance of security grilles
To ensure the effectiveness of a security grille, you should choose expert installation. Properly fitted grilles provide the best protection for your business.
You should also commit to ongoing inspections and maintenance. By finding and fixing early signs of wear, you can keep your grilles in top working order.
To maintain security gates for windows or doors:
- Carry out a visual inspection at least once a month, looking for signs of rust, loose fixings, damage or stiffness.
- Keep your grilles clean by dusting grilles and tracks regularly, and wiping with a damp cloth.
- Lubricate moving parts every few months, to keep retractable grilles opening and closing smoothly.
- Check locking mechanisms, ensuring that locks engage and disengage smoothly and that keys can be turned with ease.
- Test automation systems, ensuring that sensors, safety edges and remote controls work properly, and listening out for any unusual noises.
- Schedule an annual service, so a professional can run a thorough test of all security grille systems and replace weak parts before they fail.
Protect your building with security grilles from Secure Door Systems
Security grilles are a proven, cost-effective way to protect your commercial or industrial property. They combine visible deterrence, physical strength and long-term reliability to keep your site secure, day and night.
At Secure Door Systems, we design, manufacture and install bespoke security grilles and shutters for businesses in Stockport and beyond. Whether you need protection for a single access point or a site-wide solution, our team will help you find the right balance of security, practicality and style.
Get in touch today to arrange a consultation or request a quote.
