Whether it’s a business in Bolton or a residence in Stockport, premises across Manchester and the UK use roller shutters to boost their security, insulation, and aesthetic appeal – but without proper maintenance, this key feature can be compromised.
Maintaining roller shutters will make all the difference in how well they function and how long they last, extending their efficiency and durability. Neglecting maintenance, on the other hand, can lead to premature breakdowns and costly repairs.
So, if you want to make sure your roller shutters in Manchester stay in top condition for as long as possible, follow these maintenance tips!
1) Educate users
Whoever operates your roller shutters should receive adequate training to make sure they know how to use them properly. Otherwise, misuse – such as forceful handling – can result in misalignment or other accidental damage.
This should include awareness of relevant UK regulations for electrical systems and fire safety, including the protocol for what to do in an emergency if there is a power outage, to ensure the shutter system and user stay compliant.
2) Clean regularly
In many commercial or industrial environments, dirt and dust can build up on the surface of a roller shutter and even accumulate inside the components over time, preventing the shutter from operating as smoothly as it should.
To prevent grime build-up from hindering your roller shutters, it’s essential to clean them regularly – at least once every three months. However, you must avoid abrasive cleaning materials or high-pressure water that could cause damage.
3) Lubricate moving parts
There are lots of moving parts that make up a roller shutter mechanism, and if parts like the tracks and rollers get too dry, this can start to cause friction – resulting in wear and tear, noisy operation, and shutters getting stuck.
Regularly lubricating the roller, bearings, and guide rails every six months or so should extend the lifespan of your shutters by keeping the parts moving fluidly. Avoid using oil-based lubricants or excessive lubrication, as this can actually accumulate more grime.
4) Prevent rust
As roller shutters tend to be made of tough metal, it’s important to protect them against the development of rust, especially in areas where the shutter is more exposed to water and weather elements. You can do this by periodically applying a rust inhibitor coating.
If you notice any rust spots, you should lightly sand the rust away, apply a protective primer, then re-paint the area. This will not only help to stop rust from weakening the metal, but will also maintain the appearance of the shutter.
5) Inspect for wear and tear
Inspecting your roller shutters for wear and tear at least once every six months, or more frequently, can identify minor problems before they can develop into major issues. If you do notice anything of concern, you can fix it before it requires an expensive repair.
Be sure to check the balance and alignment of the shutter and the integrity of seals, and look out for any dents, cracks, or loose parts. Don’t forget to note the details of each inspection in a logbook, so you have a record for your maintenance schedule.
6) Repair right away
From minor issues like dented slats to significant issues like a motor malfunction, the faster you act to repair the roller shutter, the more time and money you’ll save in the long run – reducing the extent of the repairs and losses from downtime.
If you want to maintain the longevity of your shutters, you shouldn’t attempt unqualified DIY repairs that could actually make the problem worse. A professional roller shutter repairs service can ensure high-quality certified repairs with standardised parts.
7) Professional servicing
While general inspections, lubrication, and cleaning can be carried out by the owner of the shutter, annual servicing performed by a qualified professional is a more comprehensive technical process – capable of catching issues you might have missed.
Trained engineers like the Roller Shutter Services team can carry out detailed inspections, which are mandatory for mechanical doors in business premises, and not only recommend any necessary repairs, but also complete them efficiently.
8) Upgrade if needed
The older roller shutters are, the more likely they are to develop faults. If your shutters are constantly breaking down or easily damaged, it may be a better use of money to invest in a new shutter system rather than frequent repairs.
There are many types of roller shutters available, and newer technologies can provide better durability, security, and cost-effectiveness. For example, upgrading from manual to electric shutters is a massive improvement in convenience.
Roller shutter maintenance
These straightforward steps should ensure that your roller shutters continue to operate reliably for years to come, but if you do need help with roller shutter maintenance, you can always call on us at Roller Shutter Services.
In addition to providing 24/7 roller shutter repairs in Manchester and across the North West, we also offer scheduled servicing to maintain your shutters to a high standard, and we can supply and fit bespoke replacement shutters if required.
To learn more, call us on 0800 328 9356, or send an email to info@rollershutterservices.co.uk and our team will be in touch.