When you run a shop, keeping your premises secure is a constant concern. Whether you’re on a busy high street, in a shopping centre or on a retail park, the right shop shutters make a huge difference to security, business curb appeal and your peace of mind.
From electric shop shutters to internal shop shutters to heavy-duty security shutters, there are lots of options to choose from.
So here, we walk through the different types of retail shutters available. We’ll explain what to look for and help you decide which options make most sense for your business.
Why shopfront shutters are essential for retail premises
Retail premises usually have large glass windows and visible stock. They’re based in easy-access locations. This makes them a prime target for thieves and vandals.
Shop front security shutters provide a strong physical barrier outside of opening hours. They help to deter break-ins, vandalism and opportunistic theft.
Other benefits of roller shutters include:
- Protecting shop windows from accidental damage
- Reducing insurance risk (and sometimes premiums)
- Improving staff safety at opening and closing times
Ultimately, shutters for shop windows are about protection and prevention. A visible shutter sends a clear message that your business is not an easy target.
Types of shutters for shops
There are many different shopfront shutters available. The right choice depends on your location, opening size, budget and how you use your space day to day.
Manual shop window shutters
Manual shop window shutters are a cost-effective option for smaller premises.
These shutters can be operated by pulling on a chain that hangs down the side of the shutter. The chain system is locked away when not in use.
You can also get spring-loaded security shutters with a lock on the bottom rail. You simply lift or lower the shutter to open and close it, with the spring system doing most of the work for you.
Electric shop shutters and automatic systems
Electric shop shutters are one of the most popular choices for modern retail premises. Operated at the push of a button, an electric shutter is speedy and convenient.
These automatic shop shutters are ideal for larger shop fronts, and they can also be integrated with access control or alarm systems, adding another layer of protection.
External roller shutters for shops
External roller shutters for shops are fitted to the outside of the building and provide a first line of defence. They’re designed to withstand force and protect glazing, doors and frames.
External shutters are commonly used by high street retailers, convenience stores and pharmacies. And they’re available with either manual or automatic opening.
Internal shop shutters
Internal shop shutters are fitted inside business premises. They’re often used to secure specific areas, rather than the entire shopfront.
Common uses include securing stock rooms, protecting counters or kiosks, and separating areas within shopping centres.
Insulated roller shutters
Insulated shop shutters keep your retail premises cool in summer and warm in winter. They make your business more energy efficient, while still offering the same level of security as regular shutters. Insulated shutters can also be finished in a range of colours, so they fit with your storefront.
Read more: Why choose insulated roller shutters for your business?
Vision shop shutters
Vision shop shutters offer visibility into a store even when shutters are closed. These shutters use perforated or punched slats, making them ideal for retailers who want the security of shutters without completely hiding their displays.
Vision shutters offer a good balance between protection and storefront appearance — and they’re a popular choice in shopping centres and premium high street locations.
Security-rated retail shutters
Security-rated retail shutters are tested and certified to meet recognised security standards. They provide enhanced resistance against forced entry. If your shop is in a high-risk area or contains high-value stock, these shutters offer added reassurance.
Metal shutters for shops
When choosing materials, aluminium and steel are the most common options:
- Aluminium shop front security shutters are lightweight, corrosion-resistant and don’t make as much noise when you open and close them.
- Steel shop window shutters provide maximum strength and durability, making them ideal for high-risk locations.
Both materials can be finished in a range of colours to suit your shopfront.
Choosing the right retail shutter for your shop
When selecting retail shutters, there are a couple of things you need to consider:
- Security level. What risks does your shop face? Does your insurer state any specific security requirements?
- Mechanism. Who will be opening and closing your doors? Is a manual or electric mechanism the better option?
- Opening size. Larger openings may need electric operation or a tailor-made shutter solution.
- Aesthetics. Do you want solid or vision shutters? And do you want a particular finish to fit with your shopfront?
- Budget. Aluminium and manual shutters are generally cheaper than steel and automatic shutters.
The best retail roller shutter is one that fits your shop, mitigates your risks and supports your day to day operations.
Do shopfront shutters need to meet any regulations?
When installing new security shutters, you may need to get planning permission from your local council. You should visit your council website for details.
Usually — as long as you aren’t changing the external appearance of your shopfront — repair works or replacement of an existing shutter don’t require planning permission. But check with your council to be sure.
You’re also responsible for ensuring your roller shutters are properly installed and maintained.
The importance of professional installation and regular maintenance
Even the best shop shutters won’t perform properly if they’re poorly installed.
Professional roller shutter installation ensures smooth and safe operation, compliance with safety standards and the best possible security.
Roller shutter maintenance is just as important. Servicing helps prevent breakdowns and extends the lifespan of your door.
If you have automatic roller shutter doors, you’re legally obliged to service and maintain your doors regularly. You need to run frequent checks and log all inspections, servicing and repairs.
Professional shutter maintenance can give you the peace of mind you need.
Shopfront shutters from Secure Door Systems
At Secure Door Systems, we supply, manufacture, install and maintain retail roller shutters for shops across the UK. We can help you find the right solution for your premises — whether that’s electric or manual, internal or external, vision or high-security shutters.
Get in touch with our team for a no obligation quote.
Shutters for shops: FAQs
Which shutter is best for a shop?
The best shutter depends on your location, security requirements and budget. Shops in high-risk areas benefit from security-rated steel roller shutters. Shops in lower-risk areas may suit vision shutters and shopfront shutters made from aluminium.
What are shop shutters called?
Shop shutters are known as retail roller shutters, shopfront shutters and shop window shutters. Terms vary, but they all refer to protective shutter systems for retail premises.
How much do manual shop shutters cost?
Manual shop shutters are more affordable than electric shop shutters. Costs vary depending on size, material and installation requirements.
Do you need planning permission for shop shutters?
Quite possibly. Planning permission is often required if you’re installing new external shop shutters. Check with your local council or work with a professional installer to be sure of requirements.
Can you install your own roller shutters?
Roller shutters should always be installed by trained professionals. DIY installation can compromise safety and security. It may also invalidate warranties or your insurance.
