Rolling Shutters: What Are They And Are They Right For Your Home?

If you've ever been near the loading bay of a factory, you will almost certainly have seen rolling shutters. They are made of metal sections that roll up and down, usually on a geared chain. Sometimes they're manual; often they are powered. You may not have imagined them for residential use, but they are becoming increasingly popular due to the many benefits they offer homeowners.

In fact, rolling shutters (or roller shutters) have been popular on European properties for generations, and the benefits they bring are now being enjoyed by more and more American homeowners. They are usually made from aluminum, and because they are fitted to the outside of windows, they offer excellent protection during storms (particularly from wind-blown debris). On sunny days, they can provide excellent shade, reducing the heat inside the home. They give privacy and absorb sound. Perhaps most importantly, if you're looking for the best security for your home, there's little that provides more protection against intruders than a solid metal barrier.

If you're concerned about their visual impact, don't be. Modern rolling shutters can be sleek, low-profile units, and they're available in a range of finishes. Rather than looking ugly, they could actually improve your home's curb appeal. While some are manual, many are operated by handheld remote, and some are even smart-enabled and can be controlled by phone from anywhere. Clearly, rolling shutters offer plenty of benefits, but they may not be right for every home.

The security that rolling shutters offer can be second to none, making them an excellent choice if you prioritize safeguarding your home. However, if you're looking for inexpensive ways to help protect your home from intruders, this isn't one of them, particularly if you want advanced features. Expect to pay in the region of $500 to $1500 per window, with more complex options at the higher end of the price range. Although it is possible to buy the units and save money by installing them yourself, it's definitely not a project for inexperienced DIYers.

Rolling shutters are not high maintenance, but they do need to be looked after. Although the aluminum sections won't rust, they can get dirty, and that could hamper their operation. Regular cleaning will prevent problems and normally only needs to be done a few times a year, but you do need to keep an eye on them if you expect a long, trouble-free life. How long should that be? Properly maintained, rolling shutters should last 15 years or more.

Rolling shutters needn't make your home look like an industrial building — unless that's the vibe you want. They can be sleek and attractive, looking particularly good with modern and new-construction properties, though they might seem out of place on a colonial or craftsman-style home. Whether they're right for you will also depend on how you balance their obvious benefits against the initial outlay.