While roller shutters are often considered purely functional, a significant increase in their demand is driving a new, more design-focused trend. As a result, many manufacturers are now producing roller shutters that are just as aesthetically pleasing as they are practical.
Here’s a summary of different shutter types, their pros and cons and how they affect your building’s aesthetic appeal.
Aluminium Roller Shutters
Aluminium rollers are the most commonly used type of roller shutter. Both manufacturers and end users prefer this material for commercial and residential applications.
Aluminium is as robust as yet lighter than steel. Therefore, it makes it more difficult for criminals to gain access to your property while remaining easy to operate. More importantly, aluminium is rust-resistant and retains its structure even after exposure to moisture.
Another aluminium characteristic that sets the material apart from other options is durability. With proper maintenance, aluminium roller shutters can last up to 30 years.
Aluminium is one of the most aesthetically pleasing materials. Its natural silver appearance eliminates the need to add a coat of paint. Hence, it is easily adaptable to numerous building types.
The only disadvantage of aluminium shutters is the expense. It costs more to purchase aluminium roller shutters than any other type. However, the material’s benefits effectively offset this drawback.
Polycarbonate Roller Shutters
Polycarbonate is a viable alternative if you prefer to avoid metallic roller shutters. Polycarbonate shutters are made from composite thermoplastics. Consequently, they boast high impact resistance.
The primary advantage of polycarbonate shutters is transparency- a feature that significantly adds to their aesthetic appeal. Moreover, polycarbonate roller shutters allow business owners to display their wares on store shelves, thus drawing in passers-by, who then become customers.
Transparent roller shutters also present numerous benefits in residential areas. First, they allow optimum light penetration, creating an illusion of space. Moreover, they blend well with existing décor without necessitating drastic design changes due to clashing colours.
Polycarbonate shutters are strong. They can tolerate high-impact forces, thus protecting your property against harsh weather conditions and burglars.
On the other hand, transparent polycarbonate shutters don’t protect your property from sinister prying eyes. Therefore, criminals walking past your business can clearly see your stock before targeting your store. The same applies to displaying your home’s interior.
Additionally, polycarbonate is very susceptible to scratches. Therefore, this feature can negatively alter their appearance, particularly in high-traffic areas.
The Best Shutter Styles
Roller shutters come in various styles. The three most common types are:
Traditional- the most widely installed shutter type. Suitable for security, insulation and privacy but isn’t adaptable to any design enhancement beyond painting.
Louvred- this is a more aesthetically pleasing iteration of traditional shutters. They are ideal for modern homes and contemporary buildings. On the other hand, these shutters are expensive, and their design doesn’t guarantee high privacy levels.
Plantation shutters- ideal for big doors and windows as they feature adjustable flaps. This design also makes regulating light penetration more straightforward. Plantation shutters hold very high aesthetic appeal while remaining practical and easy to maintain. However, they don’t offer complete privacy.
Which Roller Shutters Have The Best Visual Appearance?
Aluminium shutters are widely sought after because they blend beauty with functionality. Their appearance allows you to skip the additional step of selecting paint colours. On the other hand, polycarbonate shutters are aesthetically pleasing without compromising security. However, while they offer excellent light penetration in the home and clear visual access to a business’ inventory, they may also tempt criminals into attacking your property.
Regarding styles, there is a choice between traditional and louvred shutters. While the former offers privacy and security, the style isn’t appealing to the eye. Conversely, the latter option boasts superior aesthetics but requires you to sacrifice privacy and significant amounts of money.
Ultimately, your building’s design dictates your ideal roller shutter type. You only need to match your property’s architectural style to the corresponding shutter. So, for example, it is better to install traditional shutters on old-fashioned buildings.
