Introduction
Buying shutters is a significant investment for your home in Perth, and it’s crucial to make an informed decision. Understanding what to ask before buying shutters ensures you select the right option that meets your aesthetic and functional needs. This guide covers essential shutter buying questions and provides a comprehensive checklist to streamline your decision-making process.
Perth’s climate brings hot summers, coastal breezes, and bright sun. The right shutters can improve security, reduce heat gain, cut glare, and lower noise. Use this page as your pillar guide, then dive into each section for focused advice.
Quick Buying Guide
- Define the goal: Security, heat control, light blocking, street appeal, or a mix of all four.
- Choose a type: roller shutters, plantation shutters, or café-style shutters.
- Select materials: Aluminium, timber, or vinyl based on durability, look, and upkeep.
- Pick the drive: Manual, electric, battery, or solar with optional smart controls.
- Get itemised quotes: Product, installation, electrical work, removal, and any extras.
- Confirm timelines: Measure, manufacture lead time, installation date, and warranty.
Key Questions to Ask
1. What Type of Shutter is Best for My Home?
Consider the various types of shutters available, such as roller shutters, plantation shutters, and café-style shutters. Each type offers unique benefits regarding privacy, light control, and aesthetics.
2. What Material Should I Choose?
Shutters are available in materials like vinyl, wood, and aluminium. Each has its pros and cons, including durability, cost, and maintenance requirements. For instance, timber shutters provide a classic look but may require more upkeep compared to aluminium roller shutters.
3. What is the Cost of Installation?
Request detailed quotes that include both the product cost and installation fees. Understanding the total investment will help you budget accordingly.
4. Are the Shutters Energy Efficient?
Energy efficiency is vital, especially in Perth’s climate. Ask if the shutters can help reduce energy costs and enhance insulation. To put numbers to potential bill reductions, calculate shutter energy savings for your home.
5. What Warranty or Guarantee is Offered?
A robust shutter warranty in WA protects your investment and clarifies exactly what’s covered.
Types of Shutters
Different shutter styles solve different problems. Here’s a quick comparison to help you shortlist the right fit.
| Type | Best For | Light & Heat Control | Security | Typical Locations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roller shutters | Security, blackout, noise reduction | Excellent | High | Street-facing windows, bedrooms |
| Plantation shutters | Style, airflow, privacy control | Good | Low–Medium | Living areas, bathrooms (PVC) |
| Café-style shutters | Street privacy with daylight | Moderate | Low | Front rooms, terraces |
When to favour roller shutters
- You want strong security and visible deterrence.
- You need maximum light block for shift work or nurseries.
- You live on a busy road and want acoustic comfort.
Materials and Build Quality
Material choice affects longevity, maintenance, and performance in WA conditions.
Aluminium
Durable, light, and corrosion-resistant when powder coated. Suits coastal suburbs and high sun exposure.
Timber
Warm, classic look. Requires more upkeep to protect against UV and moisture. Best for internal plantation styles.
Vinyl/PVC
Cost-effective and stable in wet areas. Lower structural strength than aluminium.
Costs and Quotes
Ask for an itemised quote so you can compare apples with apples. Clarify what is and isn’t included.
It’s essential to compare the types of shutters available, including their panel sizes, material, and operational mechanisms. For example, asking about the specific differences between Ozroll vs roller shutters can provide insight into durability, convenience, and suitability for your home’s needs.
What to include in a quote
- Product price per opening and total project price
- Installation labour and any electrical work
- Removal/disposal of old coverings, if required
- Access equipment (ladders, scaffolding) where needed
- Travel surcharges for regional WA
- Lead time and installation date window
- Warranty terms for product and workmanship
Cost drivers
- Window size and number of openings
- Material grade and slat type (extruded vs roll-formed)
- Motor type (manual, electric, battery, solar)
- Control options (remotes, wall switches, smart hubs)
- Custom colours and box/guide profiles
Energy Efficiency and Comfort
Energy-efficient shutters can cut heat gain, reduce glare, and improve sleep quality by darkening rooms.
Ways shutters improve comfort
- Reflecting solar radiation before it hits the glass
- Creating an insulating air gap in the window recess
- Reducing drafts with tight side guides and bottom bars
- Lowering outside noise from traffic or neighbours
Optimising performance
- Choose lighter powder-coated colours for sun-exposed façades
- Ensure seals and guides are snug to minimise air leakage
- Consider foam-filled slats for extra thermal and acoustic benefits
Motorisation and Smart Control
Decide early how you want to operate your shutters. It affects wiring and installation planning.
| Drive Type | Pros | Considerations | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manual winder/strap | Lowest cost, no power required | More effort; not ideal for large spans | Small windows, budgets |
| Electric (tubular motor) | Convenient, reliable, wall switch or remote | Needs power; plan cabling and switch location | Most homes and retrofits |
| Battery or solar | No hardwiring, good for rentals or finished walls | Battery changes; panel placement matters | Townhouses, apartments |
| Smart automation | Timers, scenes, voice control, app access | Hub or compatible motors required | Whole-home integration |
- Add a manual override for power outages on key openings.
- Group controls by room or façade for quick adjustments.
- Set schedules to pre-cool rooms by shading before peak heat.
Measuring, Installation and Lead Times
Accurate measuring ensures a neat fit and smooth operation.
Step-by-step measuring guide
- Confirm mount type: face-fit (on the wall) or reveal-fit (inside the recess).
- Check for obstructions: handles, taps, alarm sensors, weep holes.
- Measure width and height at three points; use the smallest dimension.
- Allow for headbox and guide rails; note sill type and fall.
- Record power access if using electric motors.
Installation and timelines
- Typical process: site measure, manufacture, install, handover.
- Lead times vary with season and colour choice; confirm the date range on your quote.
- Ensure safe access for installers and clear the work area ahead of time.
Security, Safety and WA Compliance
Security shutters offer a visible deterrent and physical barrier. For safety and compliance, consider the following:
- Emergency egress: Bedrooms should retain a safe exit path in an emergency.
- Bushfire zones (BAL): Ask about options suitable for higher BAL areas.
- High-wind areas: In exposed sites, confirm wind load suitability and fixings.
- Child safety: No loose cords; safe switch positions.
- Locks and fasteners: Quality bottom bars, side guides, and fasteners reduce forced entry.
For high-traffic or business premises, consider specialised commercial roller shutters that offer reinforced slats and enhanced locking systems for extra protection.
Maintenance and Repairs
Shutters are low-maintenance when cared for properly. A simple routine extends their life and keeps them quiet and smooth.
- Wipe slats, guides, and headbox with a soft cloth and mild soapy water.
- Rinse salt residue more often in coastal suburbs.
- Check fasteners, seals, and stoppers annually; book a service if worn.
- Avoid high-pressure cleaners and harsh chemicals on powder coat.
Roller Shutter Checklist
Use this checklist to ensure you cover all bases before finalising your shutter purchase:
| Checklist Item | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Type of Shutter | Which style fits your home best? |
| Material | Durability vs. aesthetics? |
| Cost | Are you within your budget? |
| Energy Efficiency | Will they help lower energy bills? |
| Warranty | What coverage is provided? |
| Security | Strength of slats, guides, and locks |
| Drive Type | Manual, electric, battery, or solar |
| Controls | Wall switch, remote, or smart automation |
| Colour/Finish | Match façade; consider heat reflectivity |
| Lead Time | Manufacture and installation dates |
| After-Sales Support | Service, parts availability, response times |
Expert Tips for Buying Shutters
Here are some additional tips to consider:
- Consult a local expert for personalised advice based on your property.
- Consider customisation options to better suit your style and functional needs.
- Look for reviews and testimonials from previous customers to gauge product quality and service.
- Ask to see slat samples and colour swatches in daylight at your home.
- Prioritise openings: start with rooms that need security, blackout, or heat control the most.
- Plan wiring early if renovating; it keeps walls tidy and switches where you want them.
People Also Ask
Are roller shutters worth it in Perth?
Yes, they add security, improve sleep with blackout, and reduce heat and noise—especially on sun and street-facing windows.
Do shutters make a house cooler?
External shutters block sun before it hits the glass, cutting heat gain and helping your air-con work less.
What is better: manual or electric shutters?
Electric suits most homes for convenience. Manual saves cost on smaller windows. Choose battery/solar if wiring is tricky.
How long do aluminium shutters last?
With regular cleaning and occasional servicing, quality aluminium shutters can last many years in WA conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of roller shutters?
Roller shutters provide enhanced security, improved insulation, and noise reduction, making them an excellent choice for homeowners.
How do I maintain my shutters?
Regular cleaning and occasional inspections for wear and tear will help keep your shutters in excellent condition.
Can I install shutters myself?
While DIY installation is possible, hiring a professional ensures a perfect fit and proper functionality.
Understand Your Payment Options
Most suppliers require a deposit with the balance payable on completion; some offer staged payments or itemised quotes that separate product and installation costs.
Ask about available roller shutter finance options to determine how your purchase can fit your budget.
How do I compare quotes fairly?
Ask for the same specs on each quote: material, slat type, drive, controls, colours, electrical work, and warranty. Compare like for like.
Do shutters help with noise from busy roads?
Yes. The solid barrier and sealed guides reduce outside noise, making bedrooms and living areas more comfortable.
Will shutters work in coastal suburbs?
They will, but choose quality powder coating and stainless fasteners, and rinse salt regularly to protect the finish.