For many Townsville homes, yes. Roller shutters close a window up completely, giving you protection from the weather, extra security, less noise and total blockout in one product, and they help keep heat out. They cost more than blinds, so they make the most sense on windows that cop the afternoon sun, face the street, belong to a shift worker's bedroom or need storm cover.
Roller shutters are a bigger investment than a blind, so it's fair to ask whether they're worth it. Here's what they do, and where they make the most sense.
What roller shutters do
- Protection from the elements. A closed shutter covers the whole window from the outside.
- Security. A solid barrier over the window when you're out, away or asleep.
- Total blockout. The room goes completely dark, day or night.
- Less noise. Handy on a busy street.
- Help with the heat. Stopping the sun hitting the glass keeps far more heat out than a blind inside, which can help with energy use.
Where they make the most sense
- West-facing windows that turn a room into an oven every afternoon.
- Bedrooms for shift workers, babies and light sleepers.
- Street-facing windows, for privacy, quiet and security.
- Holiday and investment homes, so you can close everything up when you're away.
- Windows you want covered in storm season.
What to ask before you buy
- Manual or motorised? Ask what's available for your windows and budget.
- What is it tested for? If storm protection matters to you, ask whether the shutter has a test certificate for wind or flying debris, and what size and installation it covers. We explain this in what 'cyclone rated' really means.
- How do I look after it? Keeping the tracks clean helps shutters run smoothly for years.
The verdict
If a window needs shade, security and privacy, a roller shutter does all of it in one go. If you just want softer light in a living room, blinds or shutters inside will be the better value.
Book a free measure and we'll tell you which windows would benefit most.
Common questions
Are roller shutters secure?
A closed roller shutter is a solid barrier over the window, which adds security when you're out or asleep. They're one of several benefits rather than a replacement for good locks.
Are roller shutters cyclone rated?
Some are tested to certain wind pressures or for flying debris, and some aren't. Any rating depends on the size and how the shutter is installed, so ask to see the test certificate.
Do roller shutters help with heat?
Yes. Closing a shutter stops the sun hitting the glass, which keeps much more heat out than a blind inside the window.
GNB Shade & Security Specialists (Garry Neven Blinds) is a family-owned business in Garbutt, Townsville, with more than 30 years in security screens, plantation shutters, blinds, roller shutters and outdoor blinds. We're a licensed Invisi-Gard dealer, everything we sell is made in Australia, and we measure, build and install to order. Free measure and quote on 07 4728 9554.
