External roller shutters are becoming an increasingly common feature in homes, companies, public offices and other buildings. This is due to their practicality, which results from their multifunctionality combined with the modernity of the installation and the possibility to adjust the roller shutter parameters to individual needs. It is also important that manufacturers pay attention to high aesthetic values, enabling the selection of colours to match the building’s facade.
Advantages of external roller shutters
External roller shutters are enjoying unwavering popularity. Why are they so popular? What are the features that make both investors in newly built and owners of existing houses decide to install this type of solution.
Thermal insulation properties
Nowadays, when heating costs are rising at a fairly rapid pace, one of the main features of external roller shutters is not without significance. The construction elements of the roller shutter curtain significantly reduce heat loss in the building. The curtain, made of aluminium, steel, PVC or wood, is filled with insulating material (usually polyurethane foam), which provides an additional thermal barrier. In addition, roller blinds significantly reduce the effect of wind and thus the cooling of the window surface, thanks to the layer of air between the window and the drawn roller blind, the movement of which is limited. Specialised calculations show that in winter, they reduce radiant heat loss through windows by up to 50%, and in summer, they protect interiors from excess heat.
A closed roller shutter also acts as an additional barrier for potential burglars. Especially if we install a burglar-proof model. In addition to standard security features (bolts, locks), this type of roller shutter is equipped with reinforced and appropriately profiled guides and a thicker and more rigid armour.
Noise protection
In addition to the features mentioned above, roller blinds also provide acoustic protection. Depending on the model of the roller blind, it is estimated that they reduce noise by approx. 10 dB, which is of considerable importance, especially for homeowners located near a busy road or in another noisy neighbourhood. Additional window coverings are also appreciated by people who like to sleep in a completely darkened interior and those who prefer such conditions when relaxing at home.
Installation and maintenance
Installing surface-mounted external roller blinds is not too difficult, but a few basic rules must be followed. The first step is to place the box with the guides against the wall and level the individual elements, and then mark the fixing points. Also, remember to prepare a hole in the wall before fixing the guides, and a plastic tube in it for the tape to pass through. After screwing the guides in place, a roller is mounted above the window recess, over which the armour is passed. Then the cassette is fixed in place – in such a way that it is accessible from the outside. Any gaps should be sealed with silicone. The final step is to attach the tape reel to the inside of the wall.
Installing a built-in model together with a window is much more complicated, so this work should be contracted out to professionals.
To ensure that roller shutters last for years, they need to be regularly maintained and cleaned. The belt or cord and the seals should also be lubricated periodically. Special care should be taken to ensure that there are no obstacles in the opening when lowering or raising the shutters. This can be even more difficult in winter, as ice can form on the armour when it is below zero. Operating a frozen roller shutter can damage it.
Read also:
CHARACTERISTICS AND FEATURES OF OUTDOOR AWNINGS
FACADE SHUTTERS OR EXTERNAL BLINDS? MODERN TYPES OF WINDOW PROTECTION
