Home Automation
In the past, the automation of homes was relatively rare due to the fact that the required motors were quite expensive, as was installation. Improved technology and manufacturing processes has seen the costs fall in recent years and as a result home automation has become much more common. However, awareness of the processes and benefits remains sketchy at best and many still perceive home automation as being for posers.
In Part 1 of Intelligent Homes Trust’s Guide To Home Automation we take a look at the use of automated roller shutters.
Roller shutter options
There are three different varieties of roller shutters that you are able to install. The type that you choose for can be somewhat dictated by whether you are building a new house or simply renovating your existing home. If you are updating a current house or building then the renovation roller shutter is the most appropriate option. With this option the roller shutter sits on the outside of the window frame. Its presence can be somewhat blended into the outside of the building through the use of a suitable colour.
If you are building a new home then you have two options that give a more natural appearance. The tunnel box type of roller shutters can be incorporated into the masonry so that they are completely hidden when retracted. Combined window shutter designs see the shutter integrated into the window block to provide a built-in solution.
Benefits
Probably the most common reason that people install roller shutters is to increase security within their homes and to save space from traditional closures such as lift up and over garage doors and vertically hinged blinds. However, there are also heating benefits to be gained because roller shutters can go a long way to preventing the loss of heat through window areas. Not only can you save on heating bills, you also help the environment by reducing your carbon dioxide emissions from the additional heating required when other closures are installed. In addition, roller shutters can greatly assist in reducing noise pollution from the outside world.
Features
Good quality roller shutters should come with a range of features to make them both safe and efficient. In the event that there is something in the way as the shutter comes down; obstacle detection will halt the operation and the shutter will then go back up. You should also look for frost protection, which can prevent damage to the system in the event that slats become frozen during cold spells. If security is your key concern; your roller shutters’ capabilities can be further enhanced by equipping them with locks.
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