Can all Industrial Doors be Automated?

There are a few different types of industrial doors, some of which can be automatic and others that can’t.

Security doors and fire exit doors are generally manual, as they’re hinged doors that should be easily operated in emergencies.

Sectional overhead doors are typically automatic, with quiet operation and space-saving retraction.

Speed doors are always automatic, as they require motors to open and close quickly and maintain internal conditions.

Roller Shutter Doors can be manual or automatic. These are shop shutters, car park shutters, warehouse shutters and more.

Because Roller Shutters can be either manual or automatic, this article will discuss which is the best choice for this type of industrial door.

If you’re not sure which type of doors are best for your premises, contact I&S Industrial Doors. We’re happy to offer advice on a range of possibilities.

Pros and Cons of Automatic Shutters

Automatic roller shutter doors use a motor and a chain or belt to raise and lower. The metal slats are attached with hinges, forming a flexible curtain that rolls up on an axle in the overhead space above the doorway. When lowered, the shutters travel in strong channels and lock together to create a durable barrier with edge-to-edge coverage.

Pros

Easier operation

Automated shutters can be opened at the flick of a switch, without the need for bending, lifting or physical effort. For large openings such as warehouse or factory shutters, automation is essential to allow operators to open the doors completely.

Remote Control Access

While a manual shutter still requires a key, automatic shutters are able to open with remote fobs from a distance. This is useful when quick access is required or when your hands are full.

Safety Features

Automatic shutters must have proximity sensors and alarms to protect everyone from injury. These aren’t present on manual doors, though the mechanisms are largely the same.

Energy Efficiency

Modern shutters are equipped with energy-efficient motors and mechanisms that support operational savings.

Cons

Higher Initial Investment

The installation and equipment required for automatic roller shutter doors come at a higher cost than manual shutters.

More Regular Maintenance

Maintaining automatic shutters is a health and safety requirement, and they should be serviced every 6 months to check for corrosion and misalignment. Because they have more moving parts than manual shutters, automatic doors need more attention.

Power Reliance

Most shutters can operate manually in the event of a power outage, but may require decoupling.

Cost Considerations: Budget or Returns?

Due to the equipment and maintenance involved, automatic industrial doors are generally more expensive than manual shutters.
Operational efficiency savings make it worthwhile when installed in high-traffic areas, vehicle entry points and critical areas. Rather than pausing to open the doors each time, or leaving the doors open for long periods and wasting heating and cooling energy, automatic doors allow streamlined flows that don’t waste time.

When to Use Manual Roller Shutter Doors

In some situations, manual shutters are the better choice. For example:

• Tight budget: the efficiencies aren’t enough to justify the expense.
• Low traffic area: for small offices or storage areas, doors may not be used frequently.
• Irregular power supply: for garages or agricultural buildings, powered doors may not be worth the energy and installation costs.

Manual vs Automatic Industrial Shutters

The ‘best’ option for your business depends on business size, budget and daily usage.
For businesses with very little need to open and close shutters throughout the day, manual doors are enough. However, large-scale operations that need continual access can save time and money by installing automated shutters.

To discuss cost and feasibility for your property, contact I&S Industrial Doors on 0121 544 3483.

The post Manual vs Automatic Industrial Doors: Pros and Cons appeared first on I & S Industrial Services LTD 2017.

No matter what kind of doors you have, minor damage can usually be repaired effectively. However, where the doors are not properly maintained, or problems are recurring, parts may be degraded to the extent that the whole door needs replacing.

The Case for Repairing Industrial Doors

Industrial doors are expensive, and it is generally much cheaper to repair a door than to replace it. If repairs are minor and isolated, this can be done with minimal business disruption.

Alignment problems, motor faults or damaged seals are easily repaired and do not require replacement.

When Repair is Suitable:

• Door is relatively new.
• Damage is isolated (not structural).
• Maintenance costs are still low.

Read more about maintaining roller shutter doors.

The Case for Replacing Industrial Doors

Where you might need a replacement is when your door needs repairing so frequently that a larger problem is at play. Constant repairs can add up, in which case replacing the faulty doors will save money in the long term.

When you replace doors of any kind, you’ll likely get a newer model with improved security and insulation, and it will be compliant with up to date safety standards.

Replacing faulty industrial doors also gives businesses an opportunity to upgrade automation, sensors and controls to more modern technology that serve your business more effectively.

When Replacement is the Smarter Choice:

• Door is old/outdated
• Repairs are frequent and expensive.
• Structural damage or severe motor failure.
• Business needs have outgrown the current door.

Factors to consider

How old is the door?

With proper maintenance, roller shutter doors and sectional overhead doors can last between 12 and 30 years.

High-speed doors tend to wear out more quickly, with a lifespan of 20 years.

How frequent are repairs?

If you need to repair industrial doors more than twice annually, despite thorough maintenance, you may be better off replacing them.

Is the Door Still Safe to Use?

For example, if the door closes too rapidly, sensors are unreliable or edges have corroded and become dangerous, consider replacement.

Is it Still Fit for Purpose?

Has your business grown since the door was installed? Have your operations changed in a way that means the door is used more frequently, or does it take up too much space? An upgraded industrial door could help create efficiencies.

For example, older understorey car park shutters may not be up to modern security standards.

Could you save Energy with a New Door?

Insulated shutters can save money on heating bills as they trap internal heat within your premises. Traditional shutters often have gaps or ventilation holes, which lead to cold spots and draughts in winter. Replacing your current shutters with an insulated model can improve energy efficiency and keep your workplace warmer for longer.

An Informed Choice: Repair or Replace Industrial Doors

This article is hopefully helpful in guiding your decision. The main factor to consider is whether it is cost-effective for you to repair or replace faulty doors and shutters.

If you are still not sure, contact I&S Industrial Doors on 0121 544 3483 or by our contact form, and we’ll help you out. We offer a repair service and manufacture bespoke industrial doors in our West Midlands facility.

The post Industrial Doors: Repair or Replace? appeared first on I & S Industrial Services LTD 2017.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect when working with I&S Industrial Doors Ltd.

Initial Consultation and Site Survey

Every successful door installation begins with understanding your unique operational needs. During the initial consultation, our experts will visit your site to assess:

• Existing access points
• Aperture dimensions
• Operational workflow
• Environmental factors (e.g., temperature control, hygiene requirements)
• Safety considerations and regulations

The site survey is to make sure that we recommend the most suitable high-speed industrial doors for your business. We measure the space for the door and fabricate a bespoke door to fit precisely. Doors may include seals, glazing and other features if required.

Step 2: Custom Door Design and Specification

Fast-action doors aren’t one-size-fits-all. Based on the survey findings, we design a custom solution that meets your specifications. We consider factors such as:

• Opening speed requirements
• Glazing options
• Opening styles (horizontal, rolling, folding panels)
• Size and frequency of traffic (vehicles and pedestrians)
• Material choice for durability and insulation
• Sensor requirements
• Safety systems and integration with existing controls

We can also recommend warehouse roller shutter doors or hybrid solutions for areas with varying needs.

Step 3: Quotation and Scheduling

Once the design and specification are finalised, you’ll receive a transparent, itemised quotation. We can schedule the installation at a time that minimises disruption to your operations.
Our team is experienced in working within tight project timelines. This applies to standalone installations and installing fast-action doors as part of a larger construction project.

Step 4: Professional Installation

Our fully qualified engineers carry out every installation to the highest industry standards. We prioritise:

• Health and safety compliance
• Efficient, tidy workmanship
• Minimal disruption to your workflow

Your new high-speed roller shutter doors will be operational in no time, helping you maintain productivity and security.

Step 5: Testing and Handover

Before we consider the job complete, we perform rigorous testing to ensure everything functions perfectly:

• Safety checks
• Speed and cycle testing
• Integration with existing systems

We’ll provide full operational training for your team and detailed documentation for future reference.

Step 6: Aftercare and Ongoing Support

Your investment in fast-action doors deserves long-term protection. That’s why we offer a comprehensive maintenance and servicing plan to:

• Prevent costly breakdowns
• Extend door lifespan
• Maintain compliance with regulations

Our Industrial Door Repair Service means you can rely on us for support within 72 hours.

Upgrade Your Facility

From consultation to aftercare, I&S Industrial Doors Ltd. offers a seamless experience for businesses installing fast-action doors across sectors. Explore some of our recent automatic roller shutter door upgrades to see our work in action.

Contact us today to book your free site survey and take the first step toward a more efficient and secure facility.

The post Installing Fast Action Doors: What to Expect From Start to Finish appeared first on I & S Industrial Services LTD 2017.

Need help with Roller Shutters?

Contact I&S Industrial Doors on 0121 544 3483
Roller Shutter Door Maintenance

Regular Servicing Is Essential

Regular maintenance is the best way to prevent breakdowns and unscheduled downtime. In car park shutters, a malfunction due to a lack of servicing is often related to corrosion or extreme misalignment, and these require expensive repair work and new parts. Added to the potential income lost by having a door out of order, it is best to avoid this type of problem.

If misalignment, corrosion, or damaged parts are not noticed at a service, shutters can even collapse during daily operations. A total collapse poses a health and safety risk to both staff and customers, for which the owner is liable.

Our emergency repairs are often needed for warehouse or car park roller shutters that haven’t been serviced in years. These cases often need major repair work to return them to a functional state, which is a lot more expensive than the cost of servicing would have been. It’s also more time-consuming.

Car park roller shutter doors are considered workplace equipment, and legislation comes under ‘PUWER’ and Workplace Regulation 1992: Maintenance of Equipment, Devices and Systems, which says equipment, including powered shutters, ‘shall be maintained (including cleaned as appropriate) in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair.’

How Often Should You Service Automatic Shutters?

According to HSE, all mechanical doors and their corresponding parts require inspection at least once every 12 months. Owners are also required to obtain and keep paperwork, signed by the authorised professional, as a record of inspection.

Annual inspections are the absolute minimum, as a lot can happen in a year, and acting on the results of these inspections is important to keep your doors in good working order.

Shutter Maintenance Best Practices

As industrial door professionals, we carefully consider the best ways to reduce the risk of failure and malfunction in all types of doors.

Powered roller shutters should receive a service every 6 months.
In many cases, automatic car park shutters are used year-round, multiple times a day. Even just on weekdays, this could add up to 1000 uses in just six months. The resulting strain on unlubricated or misaligned parts can have a big effect in a short time. We recommend keeping a frequent maintenance schedule to catch any issues before they escalate.

Manual roller shutters should be serviced at least once a year.
Unpowered shutters have fewer safeguards and electrical parts to inspect, and the manual process of opening and closing means you are more likely to pick up on misalignment, friction, or other issues immediately. Therefore, a full service once every 12 months is fine, as long as there is ongoing maintenance for minor issues.

Other Considerations

Certain situations increase the likelihood of rapid deterioration, and shutters under extreme stress should have more frequent servicing, such as every 4 months.

Roller shutters in exposed positions get the brunt of harsh weather and strong winds. They are likely to deteriorate more quickly than those in dry, indoor areas or under awnings. These will therefore need more frequent inspection and servicing.

Consider how frequently the shutters are used. Car park roller shutters, for example, in a private building will be used consistently throughout the day and night. Components are likely to deteriorate more quickly than shop front shutters, or those only used at the beginning and end of the day.

If you notice an issue that requires attention, contact a professional for shutter door repair.

What’s Included in a Typical Service Visit?

Shop and car park roller shutters must be serviced by a qualified engineer every six months.
A service should include:

• Lubrication of moving parts, e.g. gears, rollers, hinges and guides.
• Checking and adjusting spring and cable tension
• Checking fixings and alignment
• Inspecting safety brakes and anti-fall devices
• Testing controls, including manual controls, limit switches and emergency releases
• Cleaning sensors to ensure they function correctly
• Inspecting the structural integrity of door panels, guides, and rollers
• Inspecting motors, gears, controls and electrical components
• Checking functionality of safety features, e.g. motion sensors and emergency stop controls
• Checking for wear and tear of load-bearing components

Signs Your Shutters Might Need Immediate Attention

Aside from scheduled services, a qualified engineer is the best person to carry out car park shutter repair. You should get in touch with a professional immediately if you notice any of the following:

• Unusual noises or vibrations
• Slow or jerky operation
• Delayed opening/closing response
• Visible signs of damage or corrosion
• Shutters not opening fully or failing to close properly

Professional Shutter Maintenance You Can Rely On

We provide maintenance for automatic roller shutters to a wide variety of clients, as well as 24-hour emergency shutter repairs. Our experienced team of technicians are authorised professionals for servicing roller shutters and provide thorough inspections, improving safety and compliance where these doors are installed.

Contact I&S Today

The post How Often Should Roller Shutter Doors Be Serviced? appeared first on I & S Industrial Services LTD 2017.

How To Measure For Roller Shutter Doors

The more accurate the measurements you provide in your enquiry, the more accurate your quoted price will be. Share all measurements with I&S Industrial Doors and we’ll get back to you with what’s possible for your space.

1. Measure the Width and Height of the Opening

Measure the width and height of the clear opening where you want the shutters installed. That is the clear space between walls and from floor to ceiling. Most suppliers will ask for measurements in millimetres for accuracy, but this is easy to convert from other units.

2. Measure The Space Around The Opening

Measure how much open space you have on either side of the opening. There may be drainpipes or light switches, pipes or sockets that are too close, so measure both the interior and exterior faces.
This is to make sure there is space for the guide rails that support the shutter, usually 65mm on either side of the opening. For heavy-duty installations, this is more likely to be 100mm on either side.
From this measurement, you can determine whether the shutters should be fitted on the interior, exterior, or fixed between the jambs.

3. Measure the Headroom

Because roller shutter doors are installed above the opening, you will need some clear space between the top of the opening and the ceiling. The shutter will roll up into this space when opening.
Measure the space between the top edge of the opening and the ceiling. It is best to take a few measurements along the top edge to see if the space is consistent, or check that there is enough space all the way along.

If you want to install an automatic roller shutter, you will need adequate space for the motor. If the space is too small, other configurations can be considered.

4. For Multiple Openings, Measure the Space Between

In some cases, such as car park shutters, we can manufacture roller shutter doors to cover a few openings. Measure the space between the openings from edge to edge.

Share all measurements with us and we’ll let you know what is possible.

4. Check Nearby Power Supply

Most shutters run on single-phase mains power. In some specialist cases, we will install shutters on three-phase power, for example, in warehouses or factories with large openings.

5. Share Your Measurements with Us

When you’ve measured accurately the opening width and height, the headroom and the available space either side the opening, send us a message to request a quote.

View Roller Shutter Doors

What Type of Roller Shutters Do I Need?

The types of roller shutters available can provide various benefits and adaptations, depending on the space. All shutters offer excellent security, but different situations have varying needs.

Ventilation

For underground car park shutter doors, delivery bays in basement areas or other storage spaces, ventilation is an important requirement. Without adequate airflow, spaces can become damp, mould can take hold and unpleasant odours linger, creating health and safety concerns.

Shutters can be made with small ventilation holes in some panels. The design allows air in and out without reducing the security of the doors.

Visibility

For shop shutters, whether indoor or outdoor, visibility through the shutters is vital for security patrols and staff safety. Some commercial shutters are designed with clear plastic sections to let personnel see when someone is inside, or outside trying to gain entry.

Insulation

Insulated roller shutters can minimise heating and cooling costs, for example, in underground car parks where heat can build up quickly in summer, or in temperature sensitive industries. These specialist shutters include double-skin profile roles that have a thermal break made from polyurethane (PU). They generally have wider head plates to create a more secure seal, and are great for heavy duty use.

Work With a Specialist Supplier

I&S Industrial Doors provides made-to-measure shutter doors for all types of businesses. There is no need to choose the size that fits best, as we will construct a new shutter for your order. Bespoke sizing lets us create extremely secure shutters that fit perfectly.
We fabricate, install and maintain car park roller shutter doors, as well as roller shutter doors for shops, warehouses and more. Our shutters can be fixed to brick or steel doorways as needed.

Customers benefit from our 24-hour Emergency Repair service: we will repair your shutters as swiftly as possible to keep your business running.

Get A Quote

The post How To Choose Roller Shutter Doors appeared first on I & S Industrial Services LTD 2017.

Why Regular Roller Shutter Maintenance is Essential

If you want your warehouse, shop or car park shutters to remain secure and operational, you’ll need to schedule maintenance. While the shutter materials are durable, poor maintenance will lead to the mechanisms and hinges degrading, leading to a break down or, worse, a break-in. 

1) Maintains Security:

Regular car park shutter maintenance ensures security by preventing rusting or weakening. When rust sets into a hinge or channel, it can provide entry points for a cro-bar or hammer to gain leverage. 

2) Cost Effective:

Maintaining your shutters will also make them last longer, saving you the expense of replacing them or repairing them when a part fails due to lack of maintenance. The money lost by your business if your shutters break and won’t open can be significant. Scheduling a regular car park shutter maintenance service will identify any fault or deterioration before it becomes a significant issue, reducing downtime and keeping your business accessible.

3) Ensures Compliance:

UK Workplace Health and Safety Legislation requires regular maintenance and proper construction of all workplace doors, including car park shutters, if you employ security or attendants. Owners must ensure that electrical systems are safe. Any person injured by a fault in your shutter doors may bring civil claims for negligence, so maintaining roller shutters is vital.

Essential Shutter Maintenance Tips

Maintaining roller shutters requires several stages at planned intervals. Some steps are simple, but others require a professional to perform them correctly.

1) Regular Cleaning:

At least once every three months, remove dirt, debris, and rust to prevent damage. 

With a soft cloth, clean between the slats to remove dust and dirt. Then, use a brush to clean the ventilation holes and any other indented areas. Clear any debris from the guide rails so that the shutters can run freely. 

Use warm, soapy water and a brush to scrub tough dirt, then wipe dry with a clean cloth.

2) Check for Signs of Wear and Tear:

Every three months, check the mechanisms for wear and tear. Check cables for fraying or damage to the insulation. Make sure everything is aligned properly. If you think anything is damaged, call for car park shutter maintenance repair.

3) Lubrication of Moving Parts:

Every six months, use an appropriate lubrication on accessible parts: hinges, rollers, bearings and guide rails. This keeps them from being worn down by friction during operation, making them last longer. Lubrication also prevents rust and helps your shutters move smoothly to reduce noise.

4) Qualified Maintenance Service

Roller shutters must be serviced regularly by a qualified engineer. For Powered roller shutters, schedule a service every 6 months. For manual roller shutters, a service should take place at least once a year.

A service should include:

• Oiling moving parts
• Checking and adjusting spring and cable tension
• Inspecting safety brakes and anti-fall devices
• Testing controls, including manual controls, limit switches and emergency releases
• Cleaning sensors to ensure they function correctly

5) Thorough Inspection

At least once per year, a competent professional must carry out a detailed inspection. This will include all of the above servicing actions, as well as checking:

• Structural integrity of door panels, guides, and rollers
• motors, gears, and electrical components
• Functionality of safety features, including motion sensors.
• Wear and tear of Load-bearing components

Book Roller Shutter Maintenance Service

6) Keep Detailed Maintenance Records

Keeping a file of the reports you receive after each service and inspection can support your business if an accident occurs. This is strong evidence of regular maintenance and compliance with Health and Safety regulations.

When to call a professional for a repair

Aside from scheduled services, a qualified engineer is the best person to carry out car park shutter repair. Contact professional services if you notice any of the following:

• Shutters struggling to open/close
• Unusual noises or jerky movements
• Malfunctioning sensors or remote controls
• Structural damage or misalignment

Our Maintenance Services

As Industrial Door specialists, we provide maintenance and repair for roller shutter doors in warehouses, garages, shops and car parks. Our experienced technicians use high-quality parts to ensure reliable performance and durability.

Professional car park shutter maintenance repair and servicing are important to stay compliant with regulations for health and safety, as we provide all the reports and paperwork required. Regular servicing prevents accidents and avoids costly breakdowns that can lead to your car park having to close. Replacing a whole door can be expensive, so regular maintenance can save money in the long term.

The post How to Maintain Your Automatic Car Park Shutters for Long-Term Performance appeared first on I & S Industrial Services LTD 2017.