by Selecting electric roller shutters for your property should be straightforward, yet people consistently make the same costly errors. These mistakes often don’t reveal themselves until months after installation, when you’re stuck with an expensive system that doesn’t quite work as expected.
Choosing Based on Price Alone
The cheapest quote usually comes with hidden compromises. Budget shutters use thinner aluminium, weaker motors, and basic controllers that fail within two years. You’ll spend more replacing cheap shutters than investing properly from the start. Focus on build quality rather than initial cost.
Ignoring Wind Rating Requirements
Britain’s weather isn’t gentle, particularly in exposed locations. Shutters need appropriate wind ratings for your specific area. Coastal properties require significantly higher specifications than sheltered urban homes. Ignore this and you’ll watch your shutters buckle during the first proper storm.
Overlooking Motor Noise Levels
Not all motors operate quietly. Some produce an irritating mechanical whine that echoes through your home every time they operate. Test the actual motor sound before committing, especially for bedroom window shutters where noise matters considerably. Specifications rarely tell the whole story.
Neglecting Emergency Manual Override
Power cuts happen. Without a manual override mechanism, you’re potentially trapped inside or locked out of your property. Some systems require special keys for manual operation that are easily misplaced. Ensure the emergency system is genuinely accessible and straightforward to use.
Mismatching Controller Technology
Mixing old-style remote controls with modern smart home systems creates frustrating compatibility issues. Decide whether you want basic operation or full home automation integration before purchasing. Retrofitting smart controls later costs significantly more than specifying them initially.
Underestimating Installation Space Requirements
Window shutter housings need adequate space above windows. Victorian properties with minimal lintel clearance often can’t accommodate standard systems without visible external boxes that look dreadful. Measure carefully and discuss space constraints with suppliers before ordering.
Skipping Professional Site Surveys
Online measurements and DIY assessments miss crucial details. Professional surveys identify obstacles like satellite dishes, drainage pipes, or architectural features that complicate installation. These discoveries after ordering mean expensive modifications or complete redesigns.
Forgetting About Maintenance Access
Motors and mechanisms eventually need servicing. Shutters installed in awkward locations without considering future access create maintenance nightmares. When choosing electric roller shutters, consider how technicians will reach components for repairs years down the line, potentially saving considerable hassle and expense.
