Both security grilles and roller shutters are a powerful way of deterring and restricting intruders from entering your property – but which option is right for you?
What are security grilles?
Security grilles (aka security gates) are metal barriers placed on either the inside or outside of windows and glass doors to prevent intruders from entering your premises even if the glass is smashed. Security grilles can be permanently fixed or manually retracted when not in use and come in a range of sizes making them suitable for both home security and commercial security.
Pros of security grilles
1. Security grilles deter criminals
Thieves and other criminals are often deterred from targeted properties with security grilles since they do not leave enough space to squeeze through and the metal used is too thick to cut through without heavy-duty equipment.
2. Security grilles let light in
Security grilles can be used 24/7 and still let plenty of light in meaning that your property can be protected all day. Many home security grilles are seen as a decorative feature and are installed as a permanent fixed option rather than a retractable security measure.
3. Security grilles are simple to install
While security grilles should always be installed by a professional, they are still a relatively quick and simple security measure to install. This makes security grilles a more cost-effective way of protecting homes and businesses with limited budgets.
Cons of security grilles
1. Security grilles don’t prevent damage to your windows
Since security grilles don’t provide a solid barrier between your property and criminals, they don’t prevent damage like smashed glass or vandalism. Even when installed on the outside of a property, criminals can reach through the gaps to break the glass.
2. Cannot be moved to another property
Unlike other security measures (such as CCTV), security grilles are made-to-measure based on your specific window dimensions. This means it’s unlikely that the same set will fit the windows if you move home or business premises so you will need to invest in new ones.
If you move frequently and don’t want to buy new security grilles, you may want to consider other security options such as CCTV or safes.
3. Can be an obstruction in an emergency
If you have fixed security grilles, you will be unable to use that window as an access or exit point during an emergency. In the same way that they stop intruders from entering, they will obstruct you from breaking the window.
This drawback only applies to fixed security grilles, retractable grilles may not pose as much of obstruction in an emergency.
What are roller shutters?
Roller shutters (aka security shutters) are a retractable guard made from galvanised steel that can be manually or electrically lowered to protect windows and doors.
Pros of roller shutters
1. Roller shutters prevent damage
Roller shutters are most frequently installed on the outside of an entrance point to prevent criminals from damaging windows and doors to gain entry to the premises.
2. Roller shutters offer protection from the elements
Since roller shutters form a solid barrier between the building and outside, they also provide thermal insulation, weather protection, and noise reduction.
Cons of roller shutters
1. Roller shutters don’t let light through
Roller shutters form a solid barrier meaning that no light is let through. This makes them less suitable for use during the day since occupants of the building will be completely cut off from natural light.
2. Roller shutters attract graffiti
While roller shutters stop vandals from attacking your windows and doors directly, many see roller shutters as a blank canvas for graffiti which can make them significantly less aesthetically pleasing over time.
3. Roller shutters can be more expensive than other options
Roller shutter require a little more time and effort to install than security grilles which can make them more expensive than alternative protection methods. However, the extra expense is often worth it for those who have significant valuables to protect.
Who should install security grilles?
You should install security grilles if:
- You want to protect your windows and doors during the day
- You plan on staying the same property
- You’re not concerned about vandalism and exterior property damage in your area
Who should install roller shutters?
You should install roller shutters if:
- You want to protect your windows and doors only overnight
- You want to protect windows and doors in a less frequently occupied property during the day (e.g. warehouses)
- You want to protect your windows and doors from damage and vandalism
- You want noise reduction, thermal insulation, and weather protection
Locking your doors and windows may not be enough to deter criminals enough to prevent them from forcing entry to your property. At Halls Locksmiths, we can provide and efficiently install both security grilles and roller shutters for any premises needing a powerful way of deterring and restricting intruders.
Give us a call on 0115 9780141 or pop into our store for more advice on how to best secure your property.
