Roller shutters are precisely designed to be durable and robust, throughout the year and in all weather conditions.

However, even the highest quality roller shutters will need regular maintenance and checks, particularly during the winter months.

This is because, during the winter, roller shutters are more at risk of moisture damage, cracks and panel damage. Moving parts like tracks and hinges are also at risk of damage during colder spells, particularly if they freeze.

But, with the right checks and preventative measures in place, you can mitigate these risks, and ensure your roller shutters are operating at peak performance, throughout the year.

Keep reading to find our recommended winter checks, and best practices for roller shutter maintenance during the winter.

A winter checklist for roller shutters

If they’re not promptly dealt with, any issues with your roller issues can quickly develop during the winter.

So, with this checklist, you can ensure any problems are identified (so that you can then quickly resolve them!), before they escalate into a more costly repair job.

Our recommended winter checklist for roller shutters includes:

• Thoroughly checking your shutters for any existing damage, such as dents or cracks
• Checking for any loose components
• Testing the alignment
• Ensuring there are no signs of the shutters jamming, and that all the moving parts are properly lubricated
• Checking the seals and weather strips, ensuring there are no gaps for moisture to enter the unit
• Checking for any signs of draughts
• Looking for any dirt or debris, and cleaning if necessary
• Checking for any rust, flaking, or other signs of corrosion
• Looking for any areas that have discoloured (this is a common early sign of corrosion)

If you have any further questions about proper roller shutter maintenance, the Safe & Secure Roller Shutters team is on hand to help. Our skilled team offers comprehensive maintenance and installation services, including a 24-hour call out service and emergency repairs.

Ways to protect your roller shutters during the winter

There are also plenty of steps that you can proactively take to minimise the risk of seasonal damage.

The most effective ways to protect your roller shutters during the winter include:

• Regularly clearing away any ice and snow, particularly on the shutters and their tracks
• Using non-corrosive de-icing solutions or freeze prevention sprays, during periods of extreme cold
• Adding a waterproof, weather-resistant coating to the shutters
• Adding an anti-rust or anti-corrosion treatment to your shutters
• Ensuring the moving parts are properly lubricated (this will minimise the risk of excessive wear and tear on these key parts)
• Testing the operation of your shutters, to ensure they are performing as normal
• Using protective covers, particularly during periods of heavy snow or extreme cold
• Checking for any excessive condensation or moisture in the room where your roller shutters are located, and ventilating the room if needed
• Arranging regular, routine maintenance and checks

By employing these seasonal protective measures, you can ensure your roller shutters are fully-equipped to handle any harsh conditions.

At Safe & Secure Roller Shutters, we are roller shutter specialists, trusted by customers across the country.

We offer a wide range of services, including both roller shutter maintenance and new roller shutter installation. To find out more about our services, or to enlist our team to protect your roller shutters during the winter, contact our team for a quote.