Yes. Roller shutter doors are a good choice if you want easy access and more space inside and in front of the garage. A good-quality, properly installed door can also provide security and insulation.
Below, we compare the main advantages and disadvantages of roller shutter garage doors to help you decide whether they suit your building, budget and priorities.
Roller shutter doors are made of a number of horizontal slats hinged together. They roll up and down to open and close. Their unique structure makes them tough and durable.
Below you’ll find the main benefits of mounting roller shutter doors on your timber outbuilding.
Roller shutter doors can make your garage harder to break into. Many have strong metal slats, secure locks and guides that hold the door firmly in place.
Security varies between models, so look for a recognised security rating and professional installation. If the garage is in an exposed area, check the door’s wind-resistance rating too.
Roller shutter doors open vertically, so they do not swing out across the driveway or into the garage. You can park closer to the entrance and keep more space clear inside.
The door rolls into a box above the opening, so make sure the garage has enough headroom.
An insulated roller shutter door can help reduce the amount of outdoor noise entering your timber building. This can be useful if you plan to use the garage or carriage house as a workshop, hobby room or studio.
The level of noise reduction will depend on the door, seals and installation.
An insulated roller shutter door can help reduce heat loss and cold draughts. This can make the garage more comfortable if you use it as a workshop, gym or hobby room.
Insulation levels vary between doors, so compare their thermal performance before choosing one.
If you install electric roller shutters, getting into your garage becomes a lot more convenient. Rather than having to step out of your car, you can simply open the doors with a remote control from the comfort of your vehicle and drive in.
This is especially useful on cold, wet mornings or evenings when you do not want to leave the car.
Roller shutter garage doors also have a few possible drawbacks to consider, but, for many people, these are just practical compromises.
Most roller shutters don’t look very traditional and this can put some people off. However, they can be installed in a discreet manner.
For example, Chart Garages carriage houses are built so that the bracing stays on the outside and the door is recessed behind the posts. This greatly improves the look of the final product. It’s the perfect compromise between convenience and aesthetics.
The doors are only one part of the garage's overall appearance. Read our guide to making a detached garage look like part of your property.
The horizontal slats that make up roller shutter doors can be awkward to deep clean. Hosing them down occasionally can keep them looking good; however a thorough clean involves carefully going through every single slat.
Just bear in mind you’ll need to dedicate an hour or so to deep clean your shutters once a year or so.
Roller shutter doors have more moving parts than side-hinged doors, which can make repairs more time-consuming. Ask a roller-door specialist to check mechanical faults and an electrician to deal with electrical problems.
Choosing a good-quality door and following the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions can help prevent breakdowns.
Learn what makes a timber garage low-maintenance.
Yes, if you value easy access, security and a space-saving design. An insulated model can also reduce draughts and outside noise.
Plus, roller shutter doors only need regular checks and occasional deep cleaning.
Not always. Roller garage doors are available in electric and manual versions.
Electric doors need power supply and can usually be opened with a remote control or wall switch.
Manual doors open by hand and do not need an electrical connection.
The best roller garage door will depend on how you use the building. For better security and insulation, choose a door with strong guides, secure locks and a recognised security rating.
Electric doors are easier to use, while manual doors are simpler and usually cheaper. Compare the materials, insulation, safety features and warranty before deciding.
Roller shutter doors make some noise when opening and closing, but a good-quality door runs smoothly.
The amount of noise depends on the motor, guides, quality of the installation and how well you maintain the door.
Soft-start and soft-stop motors may be quieter. Ask the supplier to demonstrate the door before you choose.
A good-quality roller garage door can last for many years with proper installation and maintenance. How long it lasts will depend on the model, how often you use it and its exposure to the weather.
Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions and repair any faults as soon as possible.
A powered roller garage door should stop or reverse if it detects a person, vehicle or other obstacle. It should also have a safe manual release so you can open it during a power cut.
Ask a garage-door specialist to install and test the complete system.
The door, motor and controls must meet current safety requirements. You can learn more from the Door & Hardware Federation.
If you are considering roller doors for your Chart timber garage or carriage house, tell us before placing your order.
We can prepare the building with the opening, supports and space required for your chosen doors. You will need to arrange for a specialist garage-door company to supply and install the complete door system. Contact us to discuss your design and request a quote.
Do roller garage doors need space in front of the garage?
No. They open vertically, so you can park closer to the entrance.
Do roller doors take up ceiling space?
Very little. The door rolls into a box above the opening, leaving most of the ceiling clear.
Can a roller door be fitted to an existing timber garage?
Possibly. A specialist must check the opening, headroom and supporting structure first.
Can roller garage doors match the colour of the garage?
Many suppliers offer several colours and finishes, although the available choices will depend on the model.
Can Chart Garages install the roller doors?
No. Chart Garages can prepare the building for them, but a garage-door specialist must supply and install the system.
