European roller shutters are popular in countries such as Germany and Austria. These exterior shutters are sleek, clean, and convenient to use. In Europe they are used for security and privacy as well as to provide relief from the sun and wind. An American version of them exists, and they are used in the Southeast USA, especially Florida. They are called rolling hurricane shutters. They offer all the same benefits, especially hurricane and security protection. Rolling shutters stay true to the sleek European styling. This minimizes their appearance on homes or businesses. These shutters offer a lot, and we will cover everything about them in this guide.
In this product spotlight we will discuss everything you need to know about this popular style of window shutter.
Intro: What Are European Roller Shutters?
These exterior rolling shutters are popular in countries such as Germany and Austria. Variations are found throughout Europe. They are called Rollläden in Germany, Persianas in Spain, Rolluiken in the Netherland, volets roulants in France, serrande in Italy, etc.
These exterior shutters are installed over windows and doorways of homes, residential buildings, commercial buildings, storefronts, and even restaurants.
In Europe they are used as security shutters and for privacy from neighbors. They are also used as shading solutions because they provide light control and UV protection, similar to solar screens. They also provide insulation, insulating the house against the cold and heat. In this way, they provide year round comfort. Lastly, these European window coverings offer protection against the wind.
An American version of European Roller Shutters exists, and they are used in the Southeast USA, especially Florida. The American versions are called rolling hurricane shutters (or a variation of the name). The American versions offer all the same benefits, but are primarily used for hurricane protection and security protection. American roller shutters stay true to the sleek European styling. This helps to minimize their appearance on homes or businesses. These shutters offer a lot of benefits, and we will cover everything about them in this guide.
American Versions Are an Engineered System Not Just Exterior Shutters
It is said that Helmut Blum introduced European Roller Shutters to the United States. He was an immigrant from Germany who founded European Rolling Shutters (ERS) in San Jose, CA in the 1980’s. The shutters earned a prominent place in Florida after the devastation of Hurricane Andrew in the early 1990’s. Today, these shutters are made to meet stringent Florida Building Codes, and are capable of withstanding severe winds and flying debris.
As a result, Americanized versions of European roll shutters are more than just window shutters. They are an engineered system made to stand up to severe conditions. Each shutter consists of several components that work together. These include a housing box, tracks, and the actual shutter, made up of individual slats. Manual shutters include a belt or crank mechanism that moves the shutter. Electric shutter versions include an electric motor and wiring.
They are custom made to fit your exact opening and specifications.
This may sound complex, and it is. But don’t worry. Your local hurricane shutter company can handle the measuring, design, installation, and maintenance for you.
How Do They Work?
This style of shutter opens and closes by rolling up and down.
When they are open (not in use) the shutter rolls up cleanly into a housing box that sits stationary on top of your window, door, etc.
You close them by rolling them down. And when they are closed they cover your window, door, or other opening.
Operation
Rolling European shutters can be operated one of two ways:
- Automatic versions are operated by an electric motor and controlled by a switch inside your home or through a smartphone App.
- Manual versions are operated by a hand crank or belt system manually
The automatic versions typically have a backup power source, such as a generator, or a manual override. This allows you to operate them if and when your power goes out during a storm. This is especially critical if you are in a hurricane-prone area that has severe weather, such as Southwest Florida .
Uses in Florida: Hurricane Protection, Home Security & More
Roller shutters can be installed on the exterior of windows, doors, patios and other openings.
These functional exterior shutters look good, but they also serve many functions. Below we talk about the functions and features of this type of shutter.
- Storm/weather protection – they are made from strong, impact resistant materials that can withstand category 5 hurricane wind gusts as well as flying debris.
- Security – they lock in place and are near indestructible, which creates a strong barrier that makes it very hard for intruders to break in. They provide a lot of security and safety for your home and family.
- Shade, sun protection and privacy – European roll shutters provide shade, protection from the Florida sun, and privacy. At the same time they allow fresh air to flow through when the slats are open.
- Insulation – roller shutters provide insulation when they are closed. They help to keep cool air in during the summer and cold air out during the winter. This helps make your home more energy efficient and more comfortable.
Benefits of American “European Roll Shutters”
Below are some of the many benefits of this type of shutter.
1. Very convenient and easy to use
European rolling shutters are the ultimate in terms of convenience and ease of use. This is especially true if you opt for the automatic versions where you can close them with the click of a button.
2. Strong protection and lots of functionality
They are also strong. If you are looking for protection from storms or intruders these are as amazing at both functions.
3. Clean, minimalistic look doesn’t detract from your home
Considerations
Below are some things to consider before selecting this type of shutter.
1. Routine maintenance
As we mentioned earlier roller shutters are fairly complex systems. They have moving parts as well as tracks and sometimes motors. It is recommended that you maintain them to ensure they operate smoothly when you need them. You may also have to make a repair once in a while. While this may be a con for some, it is pretty standard for anything that has moving parts.
As long as they are maintained and cared for they will be reliable and last for a really long time.
2. Cost
Like with most things you typically pay more for convenience and features. And European roller shutters are packed with convenience, features and functionality. This is especially true for automatic versions with electric motors and electrical wiring required.
So, while they are not the most expensive type of exterior shutter they do have a higher price tag then some other styles.
How much do European Roller Shutters cost?
The price will most likely vary due to many factors. These include your location, the price of raw materials, the level of customization, the specifications of your project, and more. Another thing that will affect the price is if you go with manual or electric operation.
With all that being said, you should probably expect to pay $30-$35 per square foot. For more detailed information see our Hurricane Shutters Cost: 2022 Pricing Guide. In our guide you will be able to see how they compare to most other types.
Disclaimer:
With certain products, such as roll down shutters and screens, additional costs for motors and electrical work will apply.
It should also be noted that due to the current situation in the market and price inflation of raw materials our prices can fluctuate quite a bit over time due to many external factors, such as hikes in raw material costs (ie. metal), labor costs, etc.
So please take the costs given below as a rough, general pricing guidance. For an actual estimate contact us for a free in-home estimate.
Are they worth it?
Yes. We feel they are worth the cost, even though they are not the cheapest type of exterior shutter. Why? Because you will not find as much functionality, as many features or as much convenience in any other type of protective shutter. Other, more expensive shutters don’t compare to the functionality and usability of European rolling shutters. So even though they are pricey, they pack a lot of value for what you get.
Where can I buy European Rolling Shutters?
You may be able to find some of these at the big box stores or online, but we would caution against it. Instead, we recommend working with a local hurricane shutter company. Why? Here’s just a few things to think about:
- These are highly customized systems that require accurate measuring, a lot of customization, and expert installation.
- If you order online or buy in a big box store you will need to find your own installer. But most hurricane shutter installers will only work with their own products. Others may install them, but the warranty may be an issue.
- In most counties, at least in Florida, you need to get a permit, which will require you to be a licensed contractor in order to install them. This makes it hard to do a DIY installation.
If you are looking for European roll shutters in Southwest Florida we would love to help you. Eurex Shutters is one of the oldest hurricane shutter companies in SWFL, and since 1986 we have specialized in Roller Shutters. Contact us to get a free in-home estimate to get an actual price and learn about your options.
