Quick answer:
The most common reasons for roller shutter failure are power supply interruptions, remote/control faults, or mechanical obstructions in the tracks. Start with safe checks like power, breakers, and batteries. If you hear grinding or screeching noises, stop immediately to avoid motor burnout.
Failing at the wrong time is more than inconvenient for shop owners and leaves your property exposed. In the UK, the most common causes are power loss, control or receiver faults, and worn mechanical components.
Before calling an engineer or experts, first check that the power is reaching the shutter and that the tracks are clear of visible debris.
Safety note: Do not open motor housings or attempt work on springs, high-tension parts, or wiring. If you’re unsure, call a professional.
Fast diagnosis: common symptoms and what they usually mean nt Costs?
Most shutter faults can be identified by sound, movement, or lack of response.
Symptom |
Likely cause |
Safe first step |
|---|---|---|
Shutter does nothing (no sound, no movement)
|
Power cut, tripped breaker, dead control unit
|
Check other devices, breaker/fuse, wall switch
|
Motor hums but shutter won’t move
|
Jammed slats, track obstruction, motor struggling
|
Stop immediately and inspect tracks externally
|
Shutter starts then stops halfway
|
Track misalignment, sensor/limit switch issue, obstruction
|
Don’t force it. Check for visible blockage
|
Grinding or scraping noise
|
Debris in tracks, misalignment, worn bearings
|
Stop operation; and inspect tracks
|
Remote works sometimes
|
Weak batteries, interference, receiver issue
|
Replace batteries and test wall switch if available
|
Shutter moves slowly or unevenly
|
Dirt, rust, lack of lubrication
|
Clean tracks and book servicing
|
Let’s find out the most common causes of roller shutter failure.
1. Electrical & Power Supply Diagnostics
If the shutter isn’t receiving power, it won’t respond at all.
Safe checks you can do
- Are other devices working (local power cut)?
- Has a circuit breaker tripped or a fuse blown?
- Is the isolator switch (if fitted) turned on?
- Does the shutter respond to the wall switch?
Power-related issues and quick actions
Common power-related issues
Potential Issue |
What it indicates |
Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
Tripped Breaker
|
Shutter completely silent
|
Reset breaker/RCD
|
Blown Fuse
|
Power present but no response
|
Replace fuse in spurred outlet
|
Motor Overheating
|
Stops halfway after repeated use
|
Wait 15–20 minutes for thermal reset
|
Loose Wiring
|
Intermittent or jerky movement
|
Do not touch; call an engineer
|
2. Remote & Control System Glitches
Most remote issues are battery- or signal-related.
- No response: flat batteries or receiver fault
- Delayed response: signal interference or weak batteries
- Wall switch works but remote doesn’t: pairing or handset issue
- Remote dropped or wet: internal damage likely
Quick fixes you can try
- Replace the batteries first (CR2032 or 12V, depending on model)
- Stand closer to the shutter and retry
- Test the wall switch to isolate the fault
- Reset or re-pair the remote only if you know the correct method
Important: Do not repeatedly press buttons; this can overload the motor.
3. Mechanical Obstructions & Track Alignment
If you hear a grinding or screeching sound, stop immediately. You are likely burning out the motor.
What to look for
- Debris in the guides: stones, salt buildup, dried grease
- Slat misalignment: one slat sticking out catches on side guides
Step-by-Step: How to Clean & Inspect Your Tracks
- Isolate the power so the shutter cannot move while you are working.
- Inspect visually using a torch inside the side guides
- Remove debris with a stiff brush or vacuum to remove stones, salt (common in winter), or grease buildup.
- Use silicone-based spray to lubricate lightly
Pro tip: Thick grease attracts dust and turns into a grinding paste. Silicone spray is safer for tracks.
4. Safety Protocol: What NOT to Do
Critical warning:
Roller shutters operate under high spring tension. Attempting DIY repairs on motors or torsion springs can cause serious injury.
What NOT to do |
Why it’s dangerous |
Safer alternative |
|---|---|---|
Force the shutter
|
Can damage motor and curtain
|
Stop and call a professional
|
Press the remote repeatedly
|
Overheats and strains the motor
|
Switch off power and wait for an expert
|
Try DIY motor/spring work
|
High risk of severe injury
|
Let a qualified engineer handle it
|
Ignore burning smells or loud noises
|
Indicates serious internal failure
|
Stop immediately and call for help
|
Remove protective covers
|
Risk of electric shock
|
Call a certified engineer
|
5. Weather Impact & Seasonal Wear
UK weather can speed up wear, especially on external shutters exposed to wind and rain.
- Summer: If your shutter is tight in the morning but jams in the afternoon heat, the side guide tolerances are too tight.
- Winter: Water freezes in tracks, locking the shutter. Never force a frozen shutter
- High winds: Can knock tracks out of alignment
- Moisture exposure: Leads to rust and stiff movement
When repair is usually possible
- Minor dents or slat damage
- Rusted parts that can be replaced
- Track misalignment that can be reset by an engineer
- Motor strain caused by extra resistance (sometimes repairable)
Estimated Repair Costs (UK 2026 Averages)
Costs always vary by location, shutter size, access, and urgency.
Service |
Estimated Cost (GBP) |
|---|---|
Standard Call-Out & Diagnosis
|
£70 – £120
|
Replacement Remote Handset
|
£40 – £90
|
Tubular Motor Replacement
|
£250 – £550
|
Replacement Slats (Per Mtr)
|
£60 – £150
|
Emergency After-Hours Repair
|
£180+
|
The 50% Rule: If your shutter is over 12 years old and the repair cost exceeds half the price of a new installation. In this case, we recommend a full replacement for long-term reliability and safety compliance.
Preventing future roller shutter failures
Prevention is cheaper than emergency repair. A basic routine can significantly reduce breakdowns.
Simple maintenance routine
- Clean tracks occasionally (remove debris before it causes jams)
- Lubricate key moving parts as recommended by your shutter type
- Stop using the shutter if you notice jerky movement or new noises
- Avoid forcing a jammed shutter
- Book periodic servicing, especially for shopfront shutters
Need an Expert Right Now?
Don’t leave your business vulnerable overnight. Redwood Shopfronts offers 24/7 emergency roller shutter repair services. Our engineers arrive with fully stocked vans to restore operations quickly and secure your property.
FAQ
Why is my roller shutter not responding to the remote?
Dead batteries, signal interference, or a receiver fault are the most common causes. Replace batteries, stand closer, and test the wall switch if available.
Can I manually open an electric roller shutter?
Some models have a manual override for power cuts. Do not force it if unsure; not all shutters include this feature.
Why is my shutter stuck halfway?
Common causes include misaligned tracks, jammed slats, a failing motor, or a limit switch (the device that tells the shutter when to stop).
How much does roller shutter repair typically cost?
On average, minor repair and service costs around £80–£250, depending on the issue and access. For complex work, such as motor or electrical faults, the cost can range from £200 to £700+.
Is it safe to leave a shutter stuck half open overnight?
Big NO. Especially for a ground-floor property. A half-open shutter can be a security risk and may strain components if it shifts. Emergency repair is recommended.
As the lead technical writer for Redwood Shopfront, Tom has over 7+ years of hands-on experience in the London commercial property sector, establishing himself as a leading authority on shopfront design and high-security structural glazing. Helping business owners in high-traffic areas like Soho and Walthamstow navigate complex security requirements, including LPS 1175 and PAS 24 compliance. His work ensures that every storefront is not just visually striking, but fully secured against modern threats.
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