In the realm of commercial and industrial spaces, the choice of doors plays a pivotal role in ensuring security, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Among the popular options are roller doors and roller shutters, each with its own set of features and advantages. Let’s delve into the comparison roller door vs roller shutter to help you make an informed decision for your specific needs.
1. Design and Structure:
Roller Doors: Roller doors are typically made from insulated panels or sections that roll up and down, guided by tracks on either side. They come in many design options: sandwich panels or glazed panels are an option.
Roller Shutters: Roller shutters consist of a series of interlocking horizontal slat. Roller shutters slats do not offer as many design options as roller doors. In terms of design options, the roller shutter is a more simple alternative.
2. Security:
Roller Doors: While roller doors offer a decent level of security, they may not be as robust as roller shutters. Additional safety measures like automatic locks are usually required when installing a standard roller door.
Roller Shutters: Roller shutters are known for their enhanced security features. The solid curtain created by the interlocking slats acts as a formidable barrier, making them a preferred choice for areas requiring a higher level of protection against unauthorized access and break-ins.
3. Insulation and Energy Efficiency:
Roller Doors: Roller doors consist of insulated panels and a rubber sealing on all sides of the door. As a consequence, roller doors are the better option when insulation is an issue.
Roller Shutters: Roller shutters, consist of slats with minimal/no insulation. As a result, roller shutters do not provide a high level of insulation.
4. Versatility:
Roller Doors: Roller doors are versatile and come in various designs and materials. They are suitable for a range of applications, including warehouses, garages, and industrial units.
Roller Shutters: Roller shutters, due to their robust design, are particularly useful in providing security for a wide array of settings. They are commonly used as an extra safety measure in retail stores, banks, and areas where protection against vandalism and theft is crucial.
5. Required Space
Roller doors: Even though roller doors have a reputation as a space-saving solution, in reality they use quite some headspace. The door panels roll up and over as a whole and as a result, the overhead space and/or free space on the ceiling is more limited. This is why in some situations, a roller door cannot be installed due to the lack of free space.
Roller shutters: Roller shutters roll up above the door opening. As a result, they require less space behind the door. The ceiling or headspace can be fully used.
But there is more: the Compact folding door
Traditionally, the choice was limited between roller doors and roller shutters. In situations with both limited overhead space and high insulation and/or design requirements, no ideal solution was available.
To solve this issue, Rolflex has developed the Compact folding door. This is a door system with insulated panels (similar to a roller door) that folds its panels up above the door (similar to a roller shutter). This versatile door comes in numerous design options and offers a solution in many more challenging projects. The door has an automatic lock system, providing ample security for the majority of applications.
Read more about the Compact folding door or ask for a quotation using our 3D configurator.