Security grilles or roller shutters: which should you choose?

THE DEBATE: SECURITY GRILLES VS ROLLER SHUTTERS

If you’re looking for physical security measures for your building, rather than alert systems such as intruder alarms, security grilles and roller shutters are two popular choices. Not only do these provide strong physical barriers, but they also present physical deterrents to would-be thieves and vandals. Security grilles are especially popular for installation on shop fronts as they don’t restrict views to the same extent as security roller shutters.

This article looks at the similarities and differences between security grilles and security shutters and examines which is the better choice for the security of domestic and commercial properties. You may choose to combine security measures like security grilles and security roller shutters with other security measures and deterrents ie. alarms and CCTV. Having additional layers of security is always beneficial.

DEFINING SECURITY GRILLES

Security grilles, or security gates, are physical security barriers used for window and door security, and the security of other building access points. As well as presenting a physical barrier, security grilles act as an effective deterrent to stop intruders trying to gain access in the first place. Security grilles have proven resistance against a wide range of tooling and certain security grille models are also certified for attack resistance by the LPCB.

Security grilles are installed in a window or doorway opening. The security grille consists of strong, metal lattices that form a powerful barrier, preventing entry even if ie. a window is smashed.

DEFINING SECURITY SHUTTERS AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO SECURITY GRILLES

Security shutters are similar to security grilles in the fact they are installed in windows and doorways (primarily doorways due to the heavy-duty nature) for window and door protection. However, whereas security grilles have a series of overlapping metal lattices that still allow light and visibility, security shutters provide a complete sheet of metal that blocks any views. Security roller shutters are quite standard in design and usually consist of colours like brown and grey.

QUALITIES AND ADVANTAGES OF SECURITY GRILLES AND SECURITY SHUTTERS

Both security grilles and security shutters serve as a good deterrent and physical barrier to help prevent unauthorised access to buildings, vandalism and theft. The security solutions are both retractable to allow for a movable barrier that is not in place when entry to the property is permitted. Security grilles and security shutters are both manufactured from metal to be high-strength, durable and resistant, and can both be security rated by the LPCB, meaning they have proven resistance against various attack tools. Specific models of these security measures can also lower insurance premiums.

ARE SECURITY GRILLES THE NEW & IMPROVED SOLUTION?

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN SECURITY GRILLES AND SECURITY ROLLER SHUTTERS

Security grilles are a lesser known solution.

Security grilles are not as widely known and recognised as a security solution compared to security roller shutters, potentially as roller shutters have existed for longer. The ‘dowdy-looking’ roller shutter is what people have come to commonly associate with commercial and retail security in particular. Although security roller shutters do provide a complete physical barrier, they do not always look attractive, and do not facilitate free circulation of light and air. This means that security shutters are not ideal for window shopping unless you leave them up through the day, meaning you’re potentially compromising security.

On the other hand, security grilles are rising in popularity due to their versatile properties. When in operation, security grilles provide a physical barrier, but the security gates also don’t prohibit access of light or air. The lattice design means light and air can flow through the small gaps, giving the user security in addition to optimal ventilation and flow of light. The fact that security grilles don’t form a completely opaque barrier also means window shopping can take place with security still in place for the building. It also means security grilles are a good choice for office spaces where you want to implement security, as it still allows employees to benefit from ventilation and adequate working conditions in summer.

Security grilles have better aesthetics.

Cross-Guard offers a wide range of security grilles in different sizes and colours to accommodate the user’s preference. Security grilles are often more aesthetically pleasing than roller shutters due to the attractive lattice design. The CX2 security grille is a best-selling security grille due to an even more unique security grille design. This security gate has an ‘S’ shaped, curved lattice, which is appealing to the eye. When not in operation, security grilles don’t impede too much on your line of vision, as they can be retracted to a fraction of their size.

Security grilles are more manual and user-friendly

Security grilles do involve manual operation, rather than security shutters, which can be mechanical. However, this is often viewed as a bonus if you want a cost-effective solution. Security grilles are more reliable, less likely to need repair, and do not require costly, mechanical replacement parts. In addition, security grilles are very straightforward and quick to install due to their manual nature. The security grilles are easy to maintain requiring only lubrication every so often with WD40 and a wipe down with a dry duster. You can also use a wet cloth with mild detergent. For security roller shutters, please consult with your installer to check what further maintenance these will require.

SUMMARY: SECURITY GRILLES AND SECURITY ROLLER SHUTTERS

In summary, security grilles do have certain advantages compared to security roller shutters, even if roller shutters have existed for longer. If you’d like to learn more about security grilles, or if you need a quote for a specific security grille, please give the team a ring on +44 (0)808 301 9807 or email grillesales@cross-guard.com.